How should you apply cosmetics to avoid problems with extended-wear soft contact lenses?

Zoe Diana Draelos, MDContact lenses are being worn by increasing numbers of females who also desire to wear cosmetics. This can be a challenge as cosmetics can cloud, discolor, and destroy the newer water-holding oxygen-permeable contact lenses. With a few simple tips, eye cosmetics can be safely combined with contact lenses. First, it is very important to put the contact lens in first followed by makeup application. The contact lenses will provide better vision for applying cosmetics and prevent cosmetic particulate from getting under the lenses. Second, all cosmetics used around the eye should be water removable and not waterproof. This allows the tear film to wash away cosmetics that accidentally enter the eye and avoids the use of greasy removal products that could cloud the contact lenses. Third, do not apply any eyeliner type eye cosmetics inside the lid margin or facial foundation too close too the eyelashes where they could wash into the eye.

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