Accidentally getting liquid eyeliner in your eye is a common experience many people encounter. While the immediate sensation can be startling and uncomfortable, it rarely leads to severe or permanent vision problems. Most commercially available eyeliners undergo safety testing, making serious injury unlikely for most individuals. The eye’s natural defense mechanisms are often effective in managing such minor intrusions.
First Steps After Contact
Should liquid eyeliner enter your eye, flush it thoroughly with clean water. Hold your eye open under a gentle stream of cool tap water or pour water into it with a clean container. Rinse for at least 15 to 20 minutes to wash away the product.
If you wear contact lenses, remove them before flushing process, as the water can help dislodge them. Avoid rubbing your eye, as this can further irritate the delicate tissues or scratch the cornea. The goal is to dilute and remove the foreign substance as quickly and completely as possible.
Common Reactions and Potential Issues
After initial contact and rinsing, the eye may exhibit several reactions due to the presence of foreign particles and chemicals. Common symptoms include redness, excessive watering, stinging, and a burning sensation. These reactions are the eye’s natural response to clear the irritant. Eyeliner formulations often contain pigments, film-forming polymers, and preservatives, which can cause this irritation.
Blurred vision may occur, typically resolving as the eye clears the substance. Allergic reactions to ingredients like parabens, fragrances, or dyes are less common but possible, causing itching, swelling, or puffiness. Eyeliner particles can also migrate into the tear film, causing discomfort or, rarely, minor corneal abrasions.
When to Consult a Doctor
While most incidents resolve with thorough rinsing, certain symptoms indicate a need for medical evaluation. Consult an eye doctor immediately if you experience persistent pain after rinsing, or if your vision remains blurry or worsens. Other concerning signs include extreme or worsening redness, swelling of the eyelid or eye, or any discharge. Increased sensitivity to light or a feeling that something is still lodged in your eye after flushing also warrants medical attention.
Preventing Future Incidents
Minimize the risk of getting liquid eyeliner in your eye through careful application and product hygiene. When applying eyeliner, avoid lining the inner eyelid or waterline. This can block important oil glands and increase product migration into the eye. Applying eyeliner along the outer lash line is a safer practice. Ensure your liquid eyeliner is fresh; dispose of it after about three months, as older products can harbor bacteria and fungi.
Never share your eyeliner with others, as this can transfer bacteria and increase the risk of infection. Regularly clean reusable eyeliner applicators with sanitizing solutions. Read product labels and choose eyeliners with fewer potentially irritating ingredients, especially if you have sensitive eyes, to prevent adverse reactions.