Makeup and contact lenses can be used together when you follow clean handling habits and your practitioner has not advised otherwise. Wash and dry your hands before touching lenses. Many people find it practical to insert lenses before applying makeup and remove them before taking makeup off, which can reduce the chance of transferring cosmetic residue. Keep products away from the inner eyelid and avoid applying cosmetics directly onto the waterline.
Choose products that do not flake or shed easily, and replace eye cosmetics according to their label and hygienic guidance. Avoid sharing mascara, eyeliner, or other products used around the eyes. Keep brushes and applicators clean, and do not use a cosmetic if it has changed in smell or texture. If you have an eye infection or significant irritation, pause eye makeup and contact an eye care professional for advice.
If makeup gets on a lens, remove it carefully and follow the lens-specific cleaning or replacement instructions. Do not use water, household cleansers, or improvised products to clean a lens. Remove lenses before using sprays or powders that may get into the eyes, and consider closing your eyes briefly during application. Stop wearing lenses if irritation persists. Pain, notable redness, light sensitivity, discharge, or blurred vision requires prompt professional attention rather than covering symptoms with cosmetics.