Guest post by Pamela E. Theriot, OD, FAAO
We all make mistakes in our lives. We know all the rules about how to take care of our bodies. But, sometimes, even with the best intentions, we fall short.
For instance, we know we are supposed to drink half of our body weight in ounces of water every day. Somedays, we fall short. We also know that we are supposed to brush our teeth twice a day. Every now and then, we fall short. Even with our best intentions.
However, some of the best practices in eyecare just aren't as well known. Here we will go over 5 of the worst things to do with your eye makeup that are harmful to your eyes.
1. Not removing your makeup at the end of the day - makeup left at the base of your lashes allows bacteria to flourish and leave your lids red and swollen. Check out the Ultimate Guide to Makeup Removers here.
2. Wearing eyeliner on your waterline - when you put eyeliner on the area of your lids, the oil glands that live there get clogged. Without oil coating your tear film, it evaporates too quickly and leaves you dry.
3. Wearing waterproof mascara and eyeliner - contain waxes which are difficult to clean off and clog the oil glands that line the inner rim of the lid and provide healthy oils to the tear film.
4. Not throwing away your beauty products away - allows bacteria to grow and spread to your lids. Red lids and styes will abound.
5. Never cleaning your makeup brushes - again bacteria. There are bacteria that naturally live on our lids and lashes. If we continue to use the same brush without properly cleaning it, an infection will follow.
As you can see, the common theme is bacteria.
What's worse is that an overgrowth of bacteria on the
eyelids will allow an overgrowth of a parasite called
demodex.
The end result of all of this is red, swollen and
irritated lids. Often this leads to increased sensitivity
and irritation. Then, makeup runs down your face.
Ugh.
Remember, the first step to your eyes having a good
relationship with your eye makeup is properly removing it every night. Download the Ultimate Guide to Makeup Removers here.
Dr Pam is the author of "Alleviate Dry Eye". Red, sensitive, irritated eyes often hold you back from doing the things you love in life. She has developed a customized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms and restore the clear and comfortable vision you deserve.
For more information about Dr Pam you can visit her website at www.pamtheriot.com.