LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) surgery reshapes the cornea to improve eyesight. Following this procedure, proper post-operative care is crucial for optimal healing and successful visual outcomes. Adhering to your ophthalmologist’s guidelines ensures a smooth recovery.
When to Reintroduce Mascara
After LASIK, avoid all eye makeup, including mascara, for a specific period to allow proper healing. Surgeons advise waiting 7 to 10 days before introducing eyeliner and eyeshadow. For mascara, a waiting period of two to four weeks is often recommended. Waterproof mascara typically requires at least two weeks, as it’s harder to remove and can affect healing tissues.
This waiting period allows the delicate corneal flap to stabilize and the eye’s surface to recover. While general guidelines exist, individual healing rates vary. Your ophthalmologist’s specific instructions are tailored to your unique recovery process.
Understanding the Risks
The waiting period for mascara after LASIK minimizes potential complications during healing. A significant concern is infection. Mascara wands can harbor bacteria, and applying them to a healing eye can introduce pathogens, leading to a corneal infection. Studies show that many opened makeup products contain bacteria that can cause infections.
Beyond infection, mascara can cause irritation and inflammation. Flakes, fibers, or chemical components from mascara can enter the sensitive post-LASIK eye, leading to discomfort or delayed recovery. This irritation may manifest as redness, watery eyes, or blurry vision. Applying and removing mascara can also disrupt the delicate healing process of the corneal flap, especially if pressure is applied or the eye is rubbed. Some mascara ingredients may exacerbate dry eye symptoms, a common experience after LASIK.
General Eye Care and Makeup Tips
Once your ophthalmologist advises it’s safe to resume eye makeup, certain practices ensure continued eye health. Use new mascara and other eye makeup products to avoid contamination from bacteria in old products. Clean makeup brushes regularly to prevent bacterial buildup.
When applying eye makeup, use gentle technique. Avoid applying makeup directly to the lash line closest to the eye (tightlining), as this can introduce products too close and increase irritation. When removing makeup, be gentle; avoid rubbing or tugging. Use oil-free or ophthalmologist-approved removers designed for sensitive eyes. If irritation, redness, or discomfort occurs after reintroducing makeup, contact your surgeon.