Sensitive eye make-up is a complicated task because mascaras, eye shadows and lipsticks contain many synthetic pigments that can sensitize. These include: chromium oxide (in cosmetics with a green colour), cochineal (in violet and pink cosmetics) and iron oxide with nickel (in brown cosmetics). Natural substances, such as pigments based on rosin, wallflower and derivatives of carbon compounds, can also be allergens. How to remove make-up when you have sensitive eyes? Which cosmetics are safe and hypoallergenic? Which eyeshadows, mascaras and make-up tools and accessories should be used? Are make-up for sensitive eyes and contact lenses mutually exclusive? How to remove make-up with sensitive eyes and soothe eye irritations?

Make-up for sensitive eyes – safe cosmetics

If you feel discomfort when applying your mascara, then you should immediately stop using this product. It is unlikely that your eyes will get used to the new cosmetic and the discomfort will subside. Quite the contrary, it will get worse. If the issue keeps reoccurring despite the use of different mascaras, it’s good to consider using hypoallergenic cosmetics. On the package it should say that they have been designed for sensitive eyes and for contact lens wearers.

Even if you use safe cosmetics, you should be very delicate with our make-up and try to omit the eyes. And yes – do not line the inside of your eyelid, do not cover the eyelashes too much and do not apply mascara or eye pencil at the corner of the eye. It minimizes the risk of eye irritation and allergies.

Make-up for sensitive eyes – hypoallergenic cosmetics

Hypoallergenic cosmetics are available in various colours, but it is good to avoid avoid harsh shades of pink, red and violet. Why? Because they are created from the combination of several pigments, which increases the risk of an allergic reaction. Green dye is the most dangerous, which is why it is no longer used in cosmetics for sensitive eyes. Pigments that are included in hypoallergenic cosmetics are thoroughly cleaned (for example, iron oxide from nickel) or protected to minimize the risk of irritation.

The number of ingredients in hypoallergenic cosmetics is kept to a minimum, because the more substances, the more likely it is to irritate the eye. Some substances in cosmetics of this type have properties slightly soothing the irritations, such as thermal water and panthenol. Even hypoallergenic cosmetics must contain preservatives to protect them against bacteria, fungus and mould.

A good choice is mineral cosmetics, which contain only three ingredients. For this reason they were given the name ‘hypoallergenic’.

Make-up for sensitive eyes – matte eyeshadows

The particles that make the hypoallergenic eyeshadows and mascaras must be crushed as much as possible during production so that they adhere, do not fall into the eyes and clump. Large, irregularly shaped particles can contribute to the formation of mechanical micro-injuries. For this reason, cosmetics that contain mother-of-pearl often found in gloss eyeshadows, should be avoided. The pearly filings that form it, cause the skin damage and when they get into the eye – conjunctival injuries.
The pearly filings that form it, cause damage to the skin, and when they get into the eye – conjunctival injuries.

Make-up for sensitive eyes – mascaras

There are no contraindications to the use of thickening and curling mascaras, provided that they do not smudge. It would be best if they had the natural pH of tears. On the other hand, waterproof mascaras are not recommended because they contain strong preservatives.

Instead of mascara, you can use henna which will not thicken the eyelashes but it will enlarge the eyes and add clarity. Before that, it’s good to ask a beautician to do a patch test on the skin behind your ear. If henna irritates it, you will have to give up such treatments.

Make-up for sensitive eyes – make-up tools & accessories

When you have sensitive eyes, it’s not recommended to use the applicator included in eyeshadow palettes – although it is small and convenient, the rough sponge can irritate the skin around the eyes. Unfortunately, there are no brushes for people with sensitive eyes in the drugstores, but it’s good to check the hypoallergenic brands that produce the coloured cosmetics. It is very likely that the applicator they offer have been made of soft and delicate materials.

You can also use a sponge called a beauty blender or use your finger or a moistened cotton bud. If you choose cream eyeshadows, apply them with fingers or a thin brush.

Make-up for sensitive eyes and contact lenses

Is this combination possible? Of course. All you have to do is follow some rules:

• Apply make-up after putting in the contact lenses and remove make-up after removing them.
• Use hypoallergenic cosmetics.
• Do not use loose eyeshadows, as the particles can get under the lenses. The best choice is creamy eyeshadows without mother-of-pearl;
• Do not line the inside of your lower eyelid, because the product can get under the contact lenses.
• For make-up removal use oil-free products.
• In case of any irritation, remove the contact lenses and then the make-up.

Make-up for sensitive eyes – make-up removal

It is best to remove your make-up with odourless and oil-free products with pH of tears, which contain soothing thermal water. Try to make as few moves as possible.

Start by soaking the cotton pad with some make-up remover and apply it on the upper eyelid. After a while, gently move it down. Then apply a new pad to the lower eyelid and wait a moment. Now, again, apply the cotton pad to the upper eyelid and gently move it to remove the residues. Repeat until your eyes are finally clean.

How to soothe eye irritation?

To soothe irritated eyes, we use a delicate make-up remover and do not rub your eyes. You can also put in eye drops with euphrasy. For swollen eyelids, you can use cold compresses of thermal water, tea or chamomile. Also, you can apply a soothing cream to the area around your eyes.

If home remedies do not bring relief and reduce redness, tearing or swelling, seek medical attention.