Makeup Tips for Sensitive Skin: Best Products for Dry Eyes

Master the Art of Makeup While Prioritizing Eye Health

In the ever-evolving beauty industry, a common dilemma arises for many women: how to achieve a stunning makeup look while simultaneously protecting their eye health. As we become proficient in techniques like applying winged eyeliner, volumizing mascara, and perfecting the smoky eye, a growing number of individuals encounter a surprising obstacle—dry eye syndrome.
This condition arises when the eyes either do not produce enough tears or the quality of the tears is inadequate, prompting many to rethink their makeup strategies. The discomfort and irritation caused by this syndrome may lead some to abandon makeup altogether, a particularly disheartening choice for those eager to showcase their artistic flair through cosmetics.

Unveiling ÈYES ARE THE STORY: The Fusion of Science and Beauty

Leading the charge in this groundbreaking initiative is ÈYES ARE THE STORY, a pioneering brand that expertly merges scientific research with innovative beauty formulations. The inspiring journey of founder Amy Gallant Sullivan not only highlights her deep dedication to eye health but also showcases her family’s instrumental contributions to this vital field.
Amy was raised in an environment rich with healthcare professionals, which cultivated her appreciation for the complexities of ocular science from a young age. Her father, David A. Sullivan, served as an Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School, while her brother, Benjamin D. Sullivan, played a crucial role in founding TearLab, now recognized as ScoutPro under Trukera Medical.

Additionally, her mother, Rose, an intensive care nurse, provides invaluable expertise on conditions such as dry eye disease (DED) and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
Growing up in a household where eye health was frequently discussed naturally heightened her awareness of ocular surface disease (OSD) and its wider implications for individuals. Her active participation with the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) opened her eyes to the urgent need for consumer products that prioritize safety for sensitive eyes.

Exploring the Gender Gap in Dry Eye Disease Incidence

A transformative moment in Amy’s career occurred when she discovered that dry eye disease disproportionately affects women, with occurrences nearly double that of men. This revelation ignited a crucial inquiry: Which activities are more prevalent among women compared to men?
The answer is clear—cosmetic use. Studies indicate that women use approximately 12 beauty products each day, while men average around six.

As Amy further investigated, she unearthed disturbing facts about the ingredients commonly included in cosmetics.
For instance, benzalkonium chloride (BAK), a preservative often found in glaucoma treatments, is also prevalent in many cosmetic products, including those for the eyes.
What raises more alarms is that the allowable concentration of BAK in cosmetics can be thousands of times higher than that in glaucoma medications, prompting serious concerns regarding the safety of these products for individuals with sensitive eye health.

This shocking insight propelled Amy into an intense two-decade-long research journey to examine the links between cosmetics and dry eyes. Her commitment culminated in the establishment of ÈYES ARE THE STORY—a groundbreaking collection of cosmetics and skincare specifically formulated for individuals with sensitive eyes. Amy introduced the term “optocosmetics” to define this revolutionary blend of beauty and pharmaceutical science, all while prioritizing eye safety.

Recognizing the Symptoms and Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome

What is dry eye syndrome, and why is its prevalence on the rise?
This syndrome occurs when the eyes are unable to produce sufficient tears of adequate quality for proper lubrication, or when they struggle to retain tears on the ocular surface.
Individuals experiencing this condition may manifest through a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• 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 Eyes

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

Understanding Why Women Are More Susceptible to Dry Eyes

Women are at a heightened risk for developing dry eyes due to several interrelated factors. Hormonal changes throughout their lives, especially during menopause, can significantly influence tear production.
Additionally, autoimmune disorders, such as Sjögren’s syndrome, are more prevalent in women, further complicating the issue. Most critically, the regular use of eye makeup and the increasing popularity of false lashes can disrupt the vital equilibrium required for optimal eye health.