Mascara…it can be a loyal pal in your makeup kit or it can be a source of red, itchy eyes. Different people react differently to mascara but most of us will agree that luscious lashes are almost always worth the trouble, or are they?
Extremely sensitive eyes or wearing contact lenses can make it difficult to beautify yourself with mascara. But this doesn’t mean you have to give up on one of your favorite makeup items…say hello to mascaras for sensitive eyes.
Yes, there is such a thing as allergy-free and waterproof mascara for sensitive peepers!
What Makes Your Eyes Sensitive and Prone to Allergies?
The eye is one of the most delicate and naturally sensitive parts of your body. It isn’t surprising that the eye is very prone to allergies caused by dander, pollen, and dust.
Those who spend a lot of time in front of a computer screen or wear contacts and work all day in an air-conditioned room have an increased risk of suffering from sore, watery and red eyes. Wearing makeup can worsen your eye problems.
What is Allergy-Free Mascara?
Also known as hypoallergenic mascara, this is a type of mascara made from a basic formulation that does not contain common allergens. This type of mascara is also fragrance-free making it a safer alternative for those with sensitive eyes.
When shopping for mascara, look out for the label to see whether it is marked as being hypoallergenic or suitable for sensitive eyes.
Is It Safe To Wear Waterproof Mascara On Sensitive Eyes?
It makes sense to want to wear waterproof mascara especially if your eyes are the watery type. After all, you will not have to deal with the embarrassment of smudged eye makeup.
The problem with waterproof mascara is that it can be really difficult to remove. It is very likely you’d be forced to scrub the makeup off from your already sensitive eyes or you’d have to go to bed with some of this makeup left around your eyes—it goes without saying that either of these scenarios will cause your eyes to itch more.
What Is The Best, Allergy-Free And Waterproof Mascara?
When shopping for the best mascara for sensitive eyes, take the following checklist into consideration:
- Avoid fiber mascara wands:
These types of mascaras may promise those lusciously long lashes but they can be risky for someone with sensitive eyes. The fine fibers may easily get into your eye and increase irritation. - Opt for natural mascaras:
Instead of fiber mascara, buy one that contains natural, pH-balanced ingredients that will still give your lashes that luscious look without irritating your eyes. Natural formulas will also not clump together or flake, which can be a major source of irritation to the eye. - Choose tubing formulas:
Tubing mascaras go by this name because they wrap like tubes around your lashes. This type of formula is waterproof but it is easy to wipe off so no need for excessive scrubbing.
Mascara Ingredients: What To Look For
To minimize the risk of irritation to your eyes, only buy mascara containing few ingredients. Keep it simple.Your best bet is to stick to black mascara—colored mascara likely contains potential irritants.
Use fragrance-free mascara and avoid products with common irritants such as HEC, a thickening chemical product. If possible, find formulas with soothing ingredients such as aloe vera and tea tree.If you have sensitive eyes, your hygiene game needs to be on point. Get rid of old makeup and avoid using dried out mascara. Ideally, you should only keep your mascara for three months tops.
How Do You Safely Apply Mascara If You Have Sensitive Eyes?
There is a right and wrong way to apply mascara. This is especially important if you have allergy-prone eyes. So what’s the right way to apply mascara on sensitive eyes?
Instead of applying the formula from the roots of your lashes, slightly brush it toward the ends of the lashes. This ensures that the mascara does not come into contact with your eyes.
Avoid lining your waterline. Yes, lots of makeup artists recommend using eyeliner for dramatic results but if your peepers are sensitive you might want to skip this makeup technique. Applying makeup inside the waterline is a sure way of increasing your risk of infection. A great alternative is an eyelash curler, which will get you nice-looking lashes without the need to pile on product on your eyes.
For anyone who loves their makeup, mascara is definitely god-send. If you are prone to itching and tearing, consider hypoallergenic formulas that are kind to your eyes. Choose fragrance-free mascara and one with few potential irritants. As a rule of thumb, avoid overloading your eyes with product and always keep it simple where mascara is concerned.
Our List of 7 Recommended Allergy-Free Mascaras:
- Japanese Tubing Mascara technology
- Astonishing length
- No more Panda Eyes
- Easy to remove with warm water
- For captivating volume, try d.j.v. MIARAY Volume Lash.
- Natorigin Mascara - Colour: 201 NAT: Black
- Volumizing, lengthening, defining, curling, mascara
- Forms tiny water-resistant tubes around your lashes
- No makeup remover required; comes off easily with only water
- Packaging may vary
- Truly organic and/or natural skin care products, certified to NATRUE and/or BDIH standards
- Free from synthetic fragrances, dyes and preservatives
- Free from mineral oil, parabens, silicones and PEGs