Makeup First or Contacts First? The Surprising Truth About Putting on Contacts After Makeup

Do you ever find yourself in a rush to get ready in the morning and end up putting your makeup on before inserting your contacts? Or maybe you’re lying in bed at night, ready to remove your makeup and lenses, but start questioning if it’s safe to do so. If these scenarios sound familiar, you’re not alone. The topic of whether it’s okay to put contacts in after applying makeup is a common concern for contact lens wearers. In this article, we will explore this question and provide useful information to ensure the safety and health of your eyes. So, let’s dive in and uncover the truth about putting contacts in after makeup.

Can You Put in Contacts After Applying Makeup?

Applying makeup is a daily routine for many individuals, adding a pop of color or a touch of glam to their overall look. But what about contact lens wearers? Can they put in their lenses after applying makeup? This is a common question among those who wear both contacts and makeup. In short, the answer is yes, you can put in your contacts after applying makeup, but there are some precautions and tips to keep in mind.

First and foremost, it is essential to wash your hands thoroughly before touching your contact lenses. The oils and residue from makeup can easily transfer onto your fingers and then onto your lenses, leading to discomfort or even infections. So always make sure to wash your hands with soap and water before handling your contacts.

Another important factor to consider is the type of makeup products you use. If you wear contacts regularly, it is best to stick with hypoallergenic and oil-free cosmetics. These products are less likely to irritate your eyes or cause build-up on your contacts. Avoid using any oily or creamy products that can leave residue on your fingers or lids, such as heavy eye creams or thick foundations.

When applying eye makeup, such as eyeshadow or eyeliner, be mindful not to get any product on your contact lenses directly. This can lead to blurred vision or discomfort when wearing them. Instead, use waterproof eye products and apply them carefully around the eye area without touching the lenses.

One useful tip is to apply contacts before starting your makeup routine. This way, if any products do get on your lenses accidentally, you can remove them and clean them before inserting them into your eyes.

It is also crucial to remember that regular cleaning of both your contact lenses and contact lens case is vital for maintaining healthy eyes while wearing makeup. The debris from old makeup can accumulate in the case over time; therefore, it is best to clean and replace your case frequently.

In conclusion, as long as you take necessary precautions and follow proper hygiene, there is no harm in putting in contacts after applying makeup. Just remember to always wash your hands before handling your lenses, use hypoallergenic and oil-free products, and avoid getting any makeup directly onto the lenses themselves. By following these tips, you can comfortably wear your contacts and makeup without worrying about any discomfort or negative effects on your eyes.

What Are the Risks of Putting Contacts In After Makeup?

Many contact lens wearers have put in their lenses after applying makeup without experiencing any issues. However, there are potential risks involved that should not be ignored.

One possible risk is eye irritation or infection from bacteria or debris on the makeup products or on your fingers. As mentioned before, it is crucial to wash your hands thoroughly before handling your contacts to reduce the chances of this happening. If you experience any eye redness or discomfort after inserting your contacts, remove them immediately and consult with an eye doctor.

Another risk is getting makeup on your contact lenses directly. This can cause blurry vision or discomfort when wearing them. If this happens, do not attempt to clean the lenses while they are still in your eyes; instead, remove them immediately and clean them with contact lens solution before reinserting them.

Using expired or old makeup products also poses a risk when putting in contacts after applying makeup. Expired cosmetics can harbor bacteria that can lead to infections or irritations when they come into contact with the delicate tissues of the eye. It is crucial to regularly check expiration dates and replace old products to avoid any potential risks.

Additionally, wearing contacts while using eye drops can have adverse effects on both the effectiveness of the medication and the contacts themselves. Eye drops can contain ingredients that can coat or damage contact lenses, leading to discomfort or even making them unusable.

In conclusion, while there are potential risks involved in putting in contacts after applying makeup, they can be avoided by following proper hygiene and precautions. Always remember to wash your hands before handling your lenses, use fresh and hypoallergenic products, and avoid getting any makeup directly onto the lenses. By doing so, you can reduce the chances of any complications and enjoy wearing both contacts and makeup at the same time.

Is There a Specific Way to Put Contacts In After Applying Makeup?

While there isn’t a specific way to put in contacts after applying makeup, there are some tips that can help you do it effectively and safely.

As mentioned before, always make sure to wash your hands before handling your contact lenses. Use soap and water to remove any dirt or residue from your fingers that could transfer onto your lenses.

Next, make sure to apply contacts before starting your makeup routine. This way, if any products get on your lenses accidentally, you can clean them before inserting them into your eyes.

When removing your contacts after wearing makeup, it is essential to use caution and be gentle. Avoid rubbing or tugging at the lenses as this can irritate or damage them. Instead, gently pinch the lens between your thumb and index finger to remove it from your eye

The Importance of Properly Applying Contacts After Makeup

Applying contact lenses can be a hassle, especially when you have already applied your makeup. It may be tempting to put your contacts in after your makeup is already done, but this can actually lead to problems and discomfort. In this article, we will discuss why it is essential to properly apply your contacts before doing your makeup.

First and foremost, it is important to understand that contact lenses are medical devices that come into direct contact with your eyes. Therefore, proper hygiene and handling are crucial to maintain the health of your eyes. When you put your contacts in after applying makeup, you are potentially introducing bacteria and debris from your eye makeup into your eyes. This can lead to eye infections such as conjunctivitis or even corneal ulcers in severe cases.

Additionally, when you apply makeup on top of existing contacts, it can cause smudging or flaking of the makeup onto the surface of the lenses. This not only compromises the clarity of your vision but also increases the risk of contamination and potential damage to the lenses.

The Right Way to Apply Contacts Before Makeup

Now that we understand why it is essential to put in contacts before applying makeup, let’s discuss the correct way of doing so. First and foremost, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your contacts. Dry them with a clean towel or air dry them.

Next, remove one contact lens from its case using clean fingers and inspect it for any tears or debris. If everything looks good, place the lens on the tip of your index finger making sure it is not inside out (the edges should not flare out). Holding up a magnifying mirror can help with this step.

Gently pull down on your lower eyelid with one hand while looking up with both eyes towards a mirror. Now use another finger on the other hand to slide the lens into place on your eye. Be gentle and avoid touching your eyelashes or the inside of your eye with the lens.

Once the lens is in place, close your eyes for a few seconds and gently roll your eyeball to make sure the lens is properly positioned. If the lens pops out, wash it with multipurpose contact lens solution and try again. If it still does not stay in place, discard it and use a new one.

Tips for Applying Makeup Around Contacts

After successfully inserting your contacts, it’s time to apply makeup. Here are some tips that can help you maintain good hygiene and prevent any discomfort or damage to your contacts:

– Use oil-free, water-based makeup products as they are less likely to cause irritation or damage to your lenses.
– Avoid applying eyeliner or mascara directly onto the lash line as this can transfer onto the lenses. Instead, use an angled brush to apply eyeshadow as close to the lash line as possible.
– When applying eyeshadow, avoid pulling or stretching the eyelids as this can potentially dislodge or damage the contact lenses.
– If you accidentally get makeup on your lenses, do not try to rub it off. Remove the lenses and clean them with a multipurpose solution before reinserting.
– Do not use saliva or water to clean your lenses while they are still in your eyes. This can lead to contamination and potential infections.
– Avoid using false eyelashes as they can irritate your eyes and cause debris to collect under the lenses.

When In Doubt, Take Your Contacts Out

If you experience any discomfort with your contact lenses while wearing makeup, do not ignore it. It is crucial to listen to your body and take necessary precautions when it comes to maintaining good eye health. If you notice any redness, itchiness, or pain in your eyes, remove your contacts immediately and consult with your eye doctor.

In some cases, wearing contact lenses for prolonged periods can cause dryness or irritation in the eyes. Makeup can exacerbate these symptoms, making your eyes feel uncomfortable. In such situations, it is best to take your contacts out and give your eyes a break. Additionally, always follow the recommended wearing schedule determined by your eye doctor to avoid any potential complications.

In summary, it is crucial to always put in your contact lenses before applying makeup for proper hygiene and eye health. By following the correct steps of handling and inserting contacts and using makeup products that are compatible with lenses, you can prevent discomfort and potential damage to your contacts and eyes. And remember, when in doubt, take them out! Always listen to your body and consult with your eye doctor for any concerns or issues related to contact lens wear.

1) Can I put contacts in after makeup is already applied?
Yes, you can put your contact lenses in after applying makeup. However, it is important to keep in mind that proper hygiene and care should be practiced to avoid any potential eye infections.

2) Is it safe to put contacts in after putting on eye makeup?
Ideally, it is recommended to insert contact lenses before applying eye makeup. This helps in preventing any debris or particles from getting trapped between the lens and the eye. However, if you do need to insert contacts after eye makeup, make sure to thoroughly clean your hands and remove any excess makeup around the eyes.

3) Can I wear my contacts while wearing waterproof mascara?
Yes, you can wear your contact lenses while using waterproof mascara. However, make sure to be gentle while removing the makeup and avoid using oil-based removers as they can leave a residue on your lenses.

4) I accidentally got eyeshadow on my contact lens. What should I do?
If you get any eyeshadow on your contact lens, it is best to take out the lens and clean it with a solution specifically designed for contact lenses. Avoid using water or saliva as they may contain bacteria that can cause irritation or infection in the eye.

5) Can I put my contacts back in if they fall out while wearing makeup?
It is not recommended to reinsert a contact lens that has fallen out. First, remove all eye makeup and thoroughly clean your hands before inserting a fresh pair of lenses. This will help prevent any potential irritation or infection.

6)How long should I wait after putting on eyeliner before inserting my contacts?
It is best to wait at least 15 minutes after applying eyeliner before inserting contact lenses. This allows enough time for the eyeliner to dry and reduces the risk of getting any product on your lenses.

The question of whether or not one can put in contacts after applying makeup is a common concern among contact lens wearers. After exploring various factors such as hygiene, comfort, and safety, it can be concluded that it is best to insert contacts before applying makeup. This not only ensures the cleanliness of the lenses but also prevents potential irritation or damage to both the eyes and the contacts themselves.

It is important to remember that contact lenses are medical devices and should be treated with care. This includes following proper hygiene practices such as washing hands before handling them and avoiding any contact with harmful substances like makeup products. Proper insertion and removal techniques are also crucial in maintaining ocular health.

Additionally, continuously wearing contact lenses can cause dryness and discomfort, especially if they are not made from breathable materials. Makeup products such as foundation, powders, and eyeshadows only add to this discomfort by trapping moisture in between the lens and the eye. Inserting contacts after makeup application may exacerbate these issues and potentially lead to serious eye infections.

Another point worth considering is the potential damage to the lenses. Applying makeup products like mascara or eyeliner inside the waterline can cause particles to get onto the contacts, leading to scratches or build-up over time. This can not only affect vision but also increase

Author Profile

Avatar
Annie Williamson
Annie Williamson has long been fascinated by the transformative power of makeup and beauty products. With a career spanning over a decade in the beauty industry, she has worked as a professional makeup artist and beauty consultant for various renowned brands.

Annie’s expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of beauty domains, including skincare, cosmetics, haircare, and body care. Her profound knowledge and hands-on experience have made her a trusted figure among peers and clients alike, noted for her ability to tailor beauty solutions to individual needs and preferences.

The shift from hands-on beauty services to blogging allowed Annie to reach a broader audience, turning her personal insights and discoveries into valuable online content. Her blog serves as a platform for discussing emerging trends, debunking beauty myths, and revealing the secrets behind effective beauty products, whether they’re from upscale brands or hidden gems found in local markets around the world.

Annie’s approach is unique in that she combines her professional background with personal experiences from her travels, bringing a global perspective to her audience. Each post aims to educate and inspire, helping readers make informed decisions about their beauty routines.