Makeup Tips for Sensitive Skin: Best Cosmetics for Dry Eyes

Master Makeup Techniques While Prioritizing Your Eye Health

In the rapidly evolving world of beauty, many women encounter a major hurdle: achieving a flawless makeup look while maintaining their eye health. As we refine our skills in applying winged eyeliner, volumizing mascara, and crafting stunning smoky eyes, a growing number of individuals are facing an unexpected challenge—dry eye syndrome.
This condition arises when the eyes are unable to produce enough high-quality tears or when tears evaporate too quickly, prompting many to rethink their makeup routines. The discomfort and irritation caused by this syndrome may lead some to abandon makeup altogether, which is particularly disheartening for those who enjoy expressing their creativity through cosmetics and beauty products.

Introducing ÈYES ARE THE STORY: Blending Scientific Innovation with Beauty

Leading the charge in this transformative movement is ÈYES ARE THE STORY, an innovative brand that expertly merges scientific research with effective beauty formulations. The inspiring journey of founder Amy Gallant Sullivan showcases her deep commitment to eye health and highlights her family's significant contributions to this vital field.
Amy was raised in a family of healthcare professionals, which instilled in her a profound understanding of the complexities surrounding ocular science. Her father, David A. Sullivan, served as an Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School, while her brother, Benjamin D. Sullivan, played an essential role in founding TearLab, now recognized as ScoutPro under Trukera Medical.

Additionally, her mother, Rose, an experienced intensive care nurse, provides critical insights into conditions such as dry eye disease (DED) and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
Growing up in an environment rich with discussions on eye health naturally fostered her awareness of ocular surface disease (OSD) and its extensive implications. During her active participation with the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS), Amy recognized the urgent need for consumer products that prioritize both beauty and eye safety.

Unpacking the Gender Gap in Dry Eye Disease Rates

A significant turning point in Amy’s career emerged when she discovered that dry eye disease affects women nearly twice as often as men. This revelation prompted critical questions: What activities are more prevalent among women than men?
The answer is clear—cosmetic usage. Studies indicate that women typically use around 12 beauty products daily, while men average about six. This disparity in product use underscores the importance of formulating cosmetics that cater to women's unique eye health needs.

As Amy investigated further, she uncovered alarming insights about the harmful ingredients frequently found in cosmetics.
One concerning example is benzalkonium chloride (BAK), a preservative commonly used in glaucoma treatments, which is also prevalent in many cosmetic products, including eye makeup.
What raises significant alarm is that the allowable concentration of BAK in cosmetics can be thousands of times greater than that in glaucoma medications, leading to serious concerns regarding the safety of these products for individuals with sensitive eyes.

This startling discovery propelled Amy into a comprehensive two-decade research journey to investigate the connections between cosmetics and dry eye syndrome. Her passion culminated in the launch of ÈYES ARE THE STORY—a groundbreaking line of cosmetics and skincare specifically designed for those with sensitive eyes. Amy introduced the term “optocosmetics” to define this innovative blend of beauty and pharmaceutical science that places eye safety at the forefront of its mission.

Recognizing Dry Eye Syndrome: Symptoms and Common Causes

What exactly is dry eye syndrome, and why is it becoming more prevalent?
This syndrome occurs when the eyes are unable to produce sufficient quality tears for proper lubrication or when they struggle to maintain tears on the surface of the eye.
This condition can present various uncomfortable symptoms, which may include:

• Stinging or burning sensations in the eyes
• A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes
• Redness and irritation
• Blurred vision
• Heightened sensitivity to light
• Difficulty in comfortably wearing contact lenses

Investigating the Complex Relationship Between Cosmetics and Dry Eye Issues

The connection between makeup and dry eyes is intricate and multifaceted. Those beautiful shimmering eyeshadows we adore? The tiny particles can infiltrate the tear film, leading to irritation and discomfort.
Regarding the mascara that enhances our lashes, it may harbor bacteria that exacerbate eye discomfort. Furthermore, the entire process of applying and removing eye makeup can disrupt the delicate tear film, which is essential for maintaining eye health and proper lubrication.

Understanding Why Women Are More Susceptible to Dry Eye Conditions

Women tend to face a greater risk of developing dry eyes due to several contributing factors. Hormonal fluctuations throughout their lives, especially during menopause, can significantly impact tear production.
Moreover, the prevalence of autoimmune disorders like Sjögren’s syndrome is notably higher among women, worsening the situation. Most importantly, the regular application of eye makeup and the rising trend of using false eyelashes can disrupt the critical balance required for optimal eye health.