Dr Sibusisiwe Tlhapane | Ophthalmologist
T: 010 109 9591 | E-mail: admin@eyeprestige.co.za
Sunset Square, 7 Sunset Lane, 3rd Floor
Lonehil, 2191
Cure Day Hospitals Fourways
A 5-minute read that could save your sight
Your morning makeup routine might be causing more harm than you realize. At Eye Prestige, we regularly treat patients with serious eye infections, irritations, and complications many of which could have been prevented with simple safety habits.
The good news? Protecting your eyes while looking fabulous is easier than you think. These four essential habits will keep your eyes healthy without compromising your beauty routine.
Remove Every Trace of Makeup Before Bed
The Risk: Sleeping in makeup creates the perfect storm for eye problems. Products migrate into tear ducts, trap bacteria, and can cause painful styes, conjunctivitis, and blocked ducts that may require medical treatment.
The Fix:
- Use gentle, oil-free makeup removers designed for eyes
- Clean from inner to outer corner of the eye(prevents spreading bacteria)
- Pay extra attention to waterproof mascara
- Follow with a mild cleanser
Pro Tip: Keep makeup wipes on your nightstand for those exhausted nights, but still follow up with proper cleansing in the morning.
Treat Expiration Dates Like Life-or-Death Warnings
The Risk: Unlike spoiled milk, expired makeup doesn’t always smell bad or look different. But using old products introduces harmful bacteria directly to your eye area, leading to infections that can threaten your vision.
The Timeline:
- Mascara: 3 months (most critical!)
- Liquid eyeliner: 3-6 months
- Pencil eyeliner: 12 months
- Eyeshadow: 12-24 months
Red Flags: Changes in smell, texture, color, or if the product causes any irritation.
Money-Saving Hack: Write purchase dates on your makeup with a permanent marker. Your future self (and your eyes) will thank you.
Never Share Eye Makeup—Not Even with Your Best Friend
The Risk: Sharing makeup tools spreads bacteria, viruses, and fungi faster than gossip. Even family members can transmit conjunctivitis, styes, and other infections through shared cosmetics.
The Reality Check: One contaminated mascara wand can spread pink eye to an entire friend group. Professional makeup artists who don’t sanitize between clients risk serious liability.
Safe Alternatives:
- Use disposable applicators for special occasions
- Buy duplicate inexpensive products for sharing
- Never share mascara or liquid eyeliner under any circumstances
Clean Your Brushes Weekly (Your Eyes Will Notice)
The Risk: Dirty brushes harbor bacteria that cause breakouts, irritation, and eye infections. They also make your makeup look muddy and uneven.
The Simple Solution:
- Daily: Spot clean with alcohol-free wipes between uses
- Weekly: Deep clean with gentle shampoo or brush cleaner
- Replacement: Every 6-12 months or when bristles fray
Quick Cleaning Method:
- Rinse under lukewarm water (bristles down)
- Massage with gentle shampoo in your palm
- Rinse until water runs clear
- Squeeze gently, reshape, lay flat to dry
Beyond the Basics: Extra Protection Tips
Smart Application Habits
- Apply makeup in good lighting at a stable surface
- Insert contact lenses before applying makeup
- Wash hands thoroughly before touching your face
- Never use saliva to wet brushes (seriously!)
Product Selection Wisdom
- Choose ophthalmologist-tested products
- Opt for hypoallergenic options if you have sensitive eyes
- Avoid heavily fragranced products near your eyes
- Test new products on your hand first
Warning Signs: When to Stop and Seek Help
Stop using any product immediately if you experience:
- Redness or swelling
- Unusual discharge
- Persistent itching or burning
- Any vision changes
Contact Eye Prestige urgently for:
- Redness lasting more than 24 hours
- Swelling affecting vision
- Severe pain or light sensitivity
- Yellow or green discharge
- Recurring infections
The Real Cost of Cutting Corners
Consider Neo, a 28-year-old patient who used expired mascara for “just a few more weeks.” She developed a severe corneal infection requiring prescription antibiotics and nearly lost vision in one eye. The cost? Over R2,000 in medical bills and weeks of pain all to save R150 on new mascara.
Compare this to Lelo, who follows these simple safety habits. In two years of regular eye exams, she’s never had a single makeup-related eye problem. Her secret? Treating her eye makeup routine with the same care she gives her skincare.
Your Eye Health Action Plan
This Week:
- Check all your eye makeup expiration dates
- Toss anything questionable
- Deep clean all your brushes
- Set calendar reminders for future replacements
This Month:
- Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Eye Prestige
- Replace any old makeup brushes
- Create a proper makeup removal routine
Ongoing:
- Never compromise on these four essential habits
- Stay alert to any changes in your eye health
- Remember: your vision is irreplaceable
Why Eye Prestige Cares About Your Makeup Routine
At Eye Prestige, we believe prevention is always better than treatment. While we’re experts at treating complex eye conditions, we’d much rather help you avoid problems in the first place.
Our ophthalmologists see the consequences of unsafe makeup practices daily—from minor irritations to serious infections requiring surgical intervention. By sharing these prevention tips, we’re helping you protect your vision for life.
Take Action Today
Your eyes are irreplaceable, but eye makeup is not. These simple habits take just minutes to implement but provide a lifetime of protection.
Ready to prioritize your eye health?
Schedule your comprehensive eye examination at Eye Prestige today. Our experts can assess your current eye health and provide personalized advice for keeping your eyes healthy and beautiful.
Remember: Beautiful eyes start with healthy habits. Make these four practices part of your routine, and your future self will thank you with clear, healthy vision for decades to come.
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This article is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Contact an eye care professional for any concerns about your vision or eye health.
