Makeup Tips for Sensitive Skin: Cosmetics for Dry Eyes

Enhance Your Makeup Skills While Caring for Dry Eyes

In today's dynamic beauty landscape, many women face the challenge of maintaining eye health while enhancing their beauty with makeup. As we master techniques like winged eyeliner, volumizing mascara, and the perfect smoky eye, the issue of dry eye syndrome has surfaced as an unexpected hurdle.
This condition, marked by inadequate tear production or poor tear quality, compels many to reconsider their makeup application strategies. The discomfort and irritation caused by dry eyes can lead some to forgo makeup entirely, which poses a significant challenge for those who wish to express themselves creatively through cosmetic products.

Discover the Innovative Blend of Science and Beauty with ÈYES ARE THE STORY

At the forefront of this transformative movement is ÈYES ARE THE STORY, a pioneering brand that seamlessly merges scientific research with beauty innovations. The inspiring narrative of founder Amy Gallant Sullivan not only showcases her profound dedication to eye health but also reflects her family's substantial contributions to the field.
Growing up in a household filled with healthcare professionals instilled in Amy a deep understanding of ocular science. Her father, David A. Sullivan, distinguished himself as an Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School, while her brother, Benjamin D. Sullivan, was pivotal in founding TearLab, now known as ScoutPro under Trukera Medical.

Moreover, her mother, Rose, an intensive care nurse, provided invaluable insights into conditions like dry eye disease (DED) and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
Being surrounded by discussions about eye health throughout her upbringing heightened Amy's awareness of ocular surface disease (OSD) and its far-reaching implications. It was during her active participation with the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) that she recognized the urgent need for consumer products that prioritize eye safety.

Important Findings: The Link Between Gender and Dry Eye Disease

A pivotal moment in Amy's journey occurred when she uncovered that dry eye disease is nearly twice as prevalent in women compared to men. This startling statistic raised a vital question: What activities do women engage in more frequently than men?
The answer is clear—women often use a greater variety of cosmetic products. Research indicates that women typically apply around 12 beauty products daily, while men generally use about six.

As Amy delved deeper into her research, she unearthed alarming facts regarding widely used cosmetic ingredients.
For example, benzalkonium chloride (BAK), a preservative commonly found in glaucoma treatments, also appears in many cosmetic products, including eye makeup.
Even more concerning is the revelation that the concentration of BAK permitted in cosmetics can be significantly higher than that in glaucoma medications, raising serious concerns for those with sensitive eyes.

This shocking discovery inspired Amy to embark on an extensive two-decade research project focused on the connection between cosmetics and dry eye symptoms. Her dedication culminated in the creation of ÈYES ARE THE STORY, a groundbreaking line of cosmetics and skincare specifically designed for individuals with sensitive eyes. She introduced the term “optocosmetics” to describe this innovative fusion of beauty and pharmaceutical science that emphasizes eye safety.

Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, and Impact

So, what is dry eye syndrome, and why is its occurrence increasing?
This condition arises when the eyes fail to produce enough high-quality tears to adequately moisturize the eye surface, or when the tears evaporate too quickly.
Those suffering from dry eye syndrome may experience a range of discomforting symptoms, including:

• Stinging or burning sensations in the eyes
• A gritty or sandy feeling that can be quite irritating
• Redness and persistent irritation
• Blurred vision that affects daily activities
• Increased sensitivity to light, making it uncomfortable to be outdoors
• Challenges in wearing contact lenses comfortably, affecting vision correction options

Exploring the Intricate Relationship Between Makeup and Dry Eyes

The interplay between makeup and dry eyes is both intricate and multifaceted. Those alluring shimmering eyeshadows we adore can introduce tiny particles that interfere with our tear film, leading to discomfort and irritation.
Moreover, mascaras designed to enhance our lashes may contain bacteria that exacerbate eye discomfort. The processes of applying and removing eye makeup can disrupt the delicate tear film essential for maintaining well-lubricated and healthy eyes.

Unraveling Why Women Are More Vulnerable to Dry Eyes

Women face an increased risk of developing dry eyes due to several contributing factors. Hormonal fluctuations throughout their lives, particularly during menopause, can have a profound impact on tear production.
Additionally, the prevalence of autoimmune disorders such as Sjögren’s syndrome is significantly higher among women, intensifying this issue. Notably, the frequent use of eye makeup and the growing popularity of false lashes can disrupt the delicate balance required for optimal eye health.