Mascara, a popular cosmetic used to enhance the appearance of eyelashes, is a regular part of many beauty routines. Despite careful application, it is common for mascara to accidentally enter the eye, which can cause immediate discomfort and raise concerns about potential harm.
Initial Response and Self-Care
When mascara gets into the eye, the immediate sensation is often irritation, a gritty feeling, or burning, accompanied by redness and increased tearing. The eye’s natural response is to water excessively to flush out the foreign particle. Avoid rubbing the eye, as this can worsen irritation or scratch the delicate surface.
First, remove contact lenses if worn. Then, gently flush the eye with clean, lukewarm tap water or an eye-wash solution. Hold the eye open under a gentle stream for at least 15 to 20 minutes. This helps wash away any mascara flakes or residue. After flushing, gently wipe away any remaining mascara from the corner of the eye with a clean tissue or cotton swab.
Understanding Potential Issues
While minor irritation often resolves with self-care, mascara entering the eye can lead to several potential problems. A common issue is a corneal abrasion, a scratch on the clear front surface of the eye. This can occur if the mascara wand directly pokes the eye during application or if mascara flakes scratch the cornea. Corneal abrasions can be painful and increase the risk of infection.
Mascara also poses a risk for infections, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), styes, or blepharitis. The moist environment inside a mascara tube can be a breeding ground for bacteria, which can then transfer to the eye. Sharing mascara or using expired products increases this risk, as preservatives in makeup degrade over time, allowing bacteria to grow. Some individuals may also experience allergic reactions to mascara ingredients, leading to symptoms like redness, itching, swelling, watery eyes, or a burning sensation. These reactions can be triggered by common allergens such as parabens, fragrances, or certain colorants.
When Professional Help is Needed
Professional medical attention from an eye care specialist is necessary if certain symptoms appear after mascara enters the eye. If pain is persistent or severe, or if something feels lodged in the eye after flushing, seek medical evaluation. Blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light, or eye discharge like pus, also indicate a more serious injury or infection.
Persistent redness or irritation that does not improve after a day or two of self-care suggests a need for professional assessment. If contact lenses were worn and any symptoms develop, an eye doctor should be consulted. Seeking prompt medical advice can help prevent potential complications and ensure appropriate treatment.
Tips for Eye Safety
Preventing mascara from getting into the eyes and minimizing risks involves adopting several safety practices. Always apply mascara with a steady hand and avoid applying it in a moving vehicle, as sudden movements can lead to accidental eye pokes. Avoid fiber-enhanced mascaras, as these fibers can flake off and irritate or scratch the eye.
Regularly replace mascara, ideally every two to three months, to prevent bacterial buildup within the tube. Storing mascara in a cool, dry place and avoiding sharing it helps reduce the spread of bacteria. Thoroughly removing mascara before sleeping is also important, as makeup left overnight can block oil glands and lead to irritation or infection.