There are many advantages to wearing contact lenses. Contacts are liberating because they improve peripheral vision, you are not constantly aware of them because of their weight, and you don’t have to own several pairs of glasses or sunglasses if you want to your eyewear to compliment your wardrobe. Eye makeup choices may need to change as well because you won’t need to apply as much eye makeup in order to bring out your eyes. It is a good idea to discuss what mascara is best for contact lens wearers with your friends and optometrist.
The American Optometric Association (AOA) advises contact lens wearers to stay away from lash extending and waterproof mascaras. Lash extending mascaras contain fibers that can flake off into the eyes, causing pain, irritation, and destruction to your makeup job.
Waterproof mascaras and eyeliners are not recommended either because they repel moisture, something your eyes need for comfort and to keep contacts in the eyes. Dry eyes get irritated, and rubbing them can dislodge the contact.
The AOA also suggests that soft contacts be inserted prior to applying makeup. The only exception would be with hard contact wearers. Look for sensitive or hypoallergenic mascara that is ophthalmologist tested.
If makeup gets into your eye, gently rub the lens to remove it, suggests OPTI-FREE, a supplier of contact lens products. Other suggestions from OPTI-FREE include:
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Wash and dry hands before inserting and removing lenses.
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Take contacts out before removing mascara.
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Stay away from oil based makeup removers.
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Avoid false eyelashes because the adhesive can cause damage to the lenses.
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Avoid wearing contacts if your eyes are irritated, red, swollen, or infected.
So what is the best mascara for contact lens wearers? Mascaras that are smudge-free, hypoallergenic, and resists flaking like L’Oreal Voluminous Full-Definition Mascara. It is kind to sensitive eyes, recommended by ophthalmologist, and resists smudging and flaking.
Personally, I use a mascara primer before applying mascara because it prevents the mascara from flaking off and discourages clumping. This is great if you can’t give up your lengthening mascaras which usually contain fibers like my favorite mascara, Maybelline Lash Stiletto Ultimate Length Mascara in Very Black. It defines my long, curly eyelashes and allows me to build on length without clumping, even without a primer. It has a strengthening conditioner and comes off easily with an oil-free makeup remover. I use Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover which removes mascara beautifully, even waterproof mascara. I have tried more expensive mascaras, and they don’t work nearly as well as this one does for me.
It may take some time to adjust to a new mascara but there are so many options that you’re sure to find more than one that enhances your eyes while keeping them comfortable and healthy.
Related articles
- Difficult contact lens fitting (contactlensmd.com)
- Eye Care Tips For Contact Lens Users (killeenvisionsource.wordpress.com)
- Is Lower Lash Mascara a Great Idea or a Gimmick? (stylenigma.com)
- Contact Lens Retailer Announces Launch of New Daily Lens – Dailies Total 1 (prweb.com)
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