Makeup Tips for Sensitive Skin: Cosmetics for Dry Eyes

Expert Strategies for Applying Makeup Comfortably with Dry Eyes

In the rapidly changing landscape of beauty, many women face a critical challenge: achieving the perfect makeup look while ensuring optimal eye health. As we master techniques like winged eyeliner, volumizing mascara, and the perfect smoky eye, an increasing number of individuals are grappling with a prevalent issue—dry eye syndrome.
This condition, defined by inadequate tear production or compromised tear quality, compels many to reconsider their makeup routines. For some, the resulting discomfort and irritation may lead them to forgo makeup entirely, which poses a significant concern for those eager to express their creativity through cosmetics and enhance their overall appearance.

Discovering ÈYES ARE THE STORY: A Fusion of Beauty and Scientific Innovation

At the forefront of this transformative movement is ÈYES ARE THE STORY, a pioneering brand that expertly merges scientific research with beauty solutions. The remarkable journey of founder Amy Gallant Sullivan not only underscores her strong commitment to eye health but also highlights her family’s notable contributions to the field of ocular science.
Amy’s upbringing in a family of healthcare professionals cultivated her early fascination with the intricacies of ocular health. Her father, David A. Sullivan, held the esteemed position of Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School, while her brother, Benjamin D. Sullivan, was instrumental in the establishment of TearLab, which is now known as ScoutPro under Trukera Medical.

Moreover, her mother, Rose, an intensive care nurse, offers invaluable insights into conditions such as dry eye disease (DED) and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
Growing up in an environment rich with discussions on eye health inevitably heightened Amy’s awareness of ocular surface disease (OSD) and its broader implications. It was during her involvement with the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) that she recognized the urgent need for consumer products that prioritize eye safety.

Revealing Important Research: Gender Disparities in Dry Eye Disease

Amy’s pivotal discovery revealed that dry eye disease is significantly more prevalent in women than in men, with women experiencing it nearly twice as often. This finding led her to a critical inquiry: What activities do women engage in more frequently than men?
The answer was evident—cosmetic usage. Statistics show that women typically utilize around 12 beauty products daily, while men usually average approximately six.

As Amy delved deeper into her research, she uncovered troubling information regarding common cosmetic ingredients.
For example, benzalkonium chloride (BAK), a preservative often included in glaucoma treatments, is also found in many cosmetic products, particularly eye makeup.
What’s more alarming is that the concentration of BAK permitted in cosmetics can be several thousand times higher than that in glaucoma medications, raising significant safety concerns for sensitive eye health.

This startling realization propelled Amy into a rigorous two-decade investigation into the relationship between cosmetics and dry eye conditions. The culmination of her efforts resulted in ÈYES ARE THE STORY—a groundbreaking line of cosmetics and skincare specifically designed for individuals with sensitive eyes. Amy introduced the term “optocosmetics” to encapsulate this innovative fusion of beauty and pharmaceutical science that prioritizes eye safety.

Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, and Impact

What is dry eye syndrome, and why is its incidence increasing?
This syndrome occurs when the eyes either fail to produce sufficient quality tears to properly lubricate the eye surface or struggle to maintain tears on the ocular surface.
The symptoms associated with this condition can be quite uncomfortable and may include:

• Stinging or burning sensations in the eyes
• A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes
• Redness and irritation of the eye
• Blurred vision and visual disturbances
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses comfortably

Exploring the Intricate Link Between Makeup Use and Dry Eye Symptoms

The relationship between makeup application and dry eyes is complex and multifaceted. Those beautiful shimmering eyeshadows that we love can introduce tiny particles into our tear film, leading to irritation and discomfort.
Additionally, the mascara that enhances our lashes may harbor bacteria, exacerbating eye discomfort. The very process of applying and removing eye makeup can disrupt the delicate tear film that is crucial for maintaining healthy and well-lubricated eyes.

Identifying the Factors Increasing Women’s Vulnerability to Dry Eyes

Women face a higher risk of developing dry eyes due to various factors. Hormonal fluctuations throughout life, particularly during menopause, can significantly impact tear production levels.
Moreover, the higher prevalence of autoimmune disorders such as Sjögren’s syndrome among women further complicates this issue. Importantly, the frequent use of eye makeup and the trend of wearing false lashes can disrupt the delicate balance essential for optimal eye health.