The new makeup trends are beginning to concern eye doctors. This includes extended lashes, false lashes, overall metallic eyeshadow or the new lift lash effect…consumers beware as some of these can cause serious harm to your eyes. Dr. Stewart Shofner recommends all patients should be forth coming about their cosmetic use, as it could be the underlying reason for vision issues. Eyelids are extremely delicate and what may be trendy today could cause complications tomorrow.

Common causes of cornea scratches from using cosmetics may include a poke from an eyeliner pencil or mascara wand. Makeup that is flaky, dry, and powdery can also fall into the eye and cause irritation, redness, and swelling. Many consumers aren’t considering the extended use of chemical exposures from the use of eye creams and facial serums, which may also cause eye irritation – or worse. According to a recent report, many skin care products, facial cleansers, anti-aging creams and eyelash enhancements all may contain ingredients that have been shown to cause ocular surface disease (OSD).Some popular ingredients to avoid eye contact include:  Parabens, Retin-A and Formaldehyde-donating preservatives.

SAFETY LABEL WARNING

Labels that state the product is "hypoallergenic","organic," "natural" or "ophthalmologist tested" may not offer assurance that irritating chemicals are not present. Consumers should be aware that there is no guarantee that a cosmetic will not cause an allergic reaction nor that it will be ocular surface-friendly. Popular cosmetic contributors that may cause ocular surface damage include:

• Eyelash extensions
• Eyelash growth serums
• Waterproof eye makeup
• Eyelid tattooing
• Liquid eye make-up removers
• BOTOX® for crow’s feet

Dr. Shofner encourages those that are interested in the latest cosmetic trends such as eyelash enhancements or BOTOX® injections should seek professional facilities and be applied only by skilled and certified technicians. “I do not recommend eyelash extensions for patients that have dry eye, as the extensions may cause the eyes more discomfort,” says Dr. Shofner. It is also important to check the eyelash adhesive ingredients before use to prevent allergic reactions.

Additionally, if you suffer from sore, red eyelids, you could have blepharitis, a common inflammation of the eyelid margin. In some cases, blepharitis also causes loss of eyelashes (madarosis). Contact your local vision center to schedule an appointment if you are experiencing any eye problems or concerns. You may also contact Shofner Vision Center for a comprehensive eye exam at (615) 340-4733.

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