Eye hygiene plays a critical role in maintaining eye health, particularly for contact lens wearers and those who use makeup. Tanya Gill, OD, CEO of We Love Eyes, and Melissa Barnett, OD, FAAO, FSLS, FBCLA, an internationally recognized expert in eye care, recently discussed best practices, common pitfalls and how to educate patients about safe cosmetic use on the WO Voices Podcast.
INGREDIENT AND PRODUCT SAFETY
Dr. Gill founded We Love Eyes after a patient’s struggle with contact lenses prompted her to investigate makeup removers. “She refused to remove her eye makeup,” Dr. Gill says. “When I suggested she might resolve her issues by removing it, she challenged me to find a product that met her stringent criteria: natural, cruelty-free and free of certain chemicals. When I couldn’t find one, I decided to make it myself.”
Years later, the same patient continues to order the eye makeup remover Dr. Gill created. Her company now provides a range of products designed with eye health in mind.
“It’s not just about the ingredients,” Dr. Gill says, “but also the formulation and concentration.” While preservatives like phenoxyethanol are common, she advises considering the specific formulation rather than avoiding an ingredient outright.
She notes that even “clean” products require scrutiny. “We test all our products rigorously in FDA-approved labs,” Dr. Gill says. “They undergo a series of safety protocols, which I jokingly call the ‘safety decathlon.’” She stresses that products labeled as “clean” or “safe” are not always appropriate for every patient. “Just because it’s clean doesn’t mean it’s right for you.”
THE IMPACT OF MAKEUP ON EYE HEALTH
Makeup’s effects on the ocular surface vary from person to person. “I have patients who waterline their eyes daily and experience no issues,” Dr. Gill says. “Then others use mascara once and have flare-ups.” She advises considering the patient’s unique circumstances, including existing conditions like dry eye syndrome or meibomian gland dysfunction.
Dr. Barnett adds that patients frequently ask what’s safe to use. “It’s great to have reliable products to recommend, including Tanya’s line,” she says. Educating patients about the waxes and silicones in many “clean” products is essential for managing expectations and promoting safe use.
THE LASH DILEMMA
False eyelashes often come up in clinical discussions. “I cringe when I see false lashes full of Demodex and blepharitis,” Dr. Barnett says. “They affect the natural blink, causing dry eyes, irritation and redness.” While patients appreciate the aesthetic benefits, Dr. Barnett encourages them to consider safer options like lash serums for natural growth.
Dr. Gill agrees and shares her approach to addressing the issue with patients. “I show them a pristine stock photo of an eyelash as a baseline. Then I capture and display their actual lashes under the slit lamp. It’s often a rude awakening but motivates them to take action.”
For patients seeking healthier alternatives, Dr. Gill recommends pharmaceutical-grade castor oil, which she uses in a product called Follicle Oil. “It supports follicle health rather than just eyelash health,” she says. “It’s also beneficial for patients with dry eyes.”
Winter conditions can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Dr. Gill suggests recommending products that protect the delicate ocular surface while addressing seasonal discomfort. Eye-safe, moisturizing makeup removers and preservative-free lubricating drops can provide relief.
Read more beauty related articles from WO here.
Photo credit: image100 / age fotostock
