As we welcome the new year, it’s the perfect time to reevaluate our routines and prioritize our health. A common resolution is to focus on exercising and eating right; however, our skin and eyes deserve attention too! Over the past few years, there has been growing awareness about “clean living” or “clean beauty,” as the products we use daily can impact our overall health. At Refine Optometry, we’re passionate about holistic living, recognizing the close relationship between our eye and body health.
The Hidden Risk in Everyday Products
Every day, we learn more about how common household products, skincare, and cosmetics can affect our health. Ingredients like parabens, phthalates, preservatives, and formaldehyde are prevalent in many items and can cause issues ranging from allergic reactions to endocrine disruption or even carcinogenic effects.
How Skin Care Impacts Eye Health
The delicate skin around the eyes is thinner and more sensitive than anywhere else on our body, making it more prone to irritation. Skin care products like cleansers, moisturizers, sunscreen, and makeup can migrate into the eyes, causing temporary burning and stinging. Over time, these substances can accumulate and clog the small oil glands along the eyelid margin. This can lead to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)—a condition where the glands cannot express the necessary oils to stabilize the tear film, resulting in chronic dry eye symptoms.
Cosmetics like eyeshadow, eyeliner, and mascara remain on the eyes for hours, and research shows that prolonged contact time can increase the risk of irritation and gland dysfunction.
Do’s and Don’ts: Skincare and Beauty
Taking care of your skin and eyes goes hand in hand. By adopting healthy habits and using eye-friendly products, you can protect your vision and overall health.
DO:
- Use Eye-Friendly Sunscreen: Opt for mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are gentler on the eyes and provide excellent UV protection. Chemical sunscreens with ingredients like oxybenzone can irritate the eyes or worsen dry eye symptoms when they migrate into the tear film.
- Remove Makeup Nightly: Cleanse thoroughly to prevent bacteria and debris from building up on your skin and near your eyes.
- Replace Makeup Regularly:
- Mascara/liquid eyeliner: Every 3 months
- Eyeshadow palettes: Every 2 years
- Liquid foundation/primer: Every 1–2 years
- Clean Makeup Brushes: Wash them often with warm soapy water to reduce bacteria and avoid transferring dirt or oils near the eyes.
- Limit Personal Care Products: Women use an average of 12 products daily, while men use about 6. Simplify your routine to minimize exposure to unnecessary chemicals.
DON’T:
- Use Glittery Eyeshadows: These can deposit particles into the eyes, causing microabrasions and irritation.
- Tightline or Use Makeup on the Waterline: This practice clogs the oil glands around the eyes and increases the risk of dryness or infections.
- Share Your Makeup: Sharing increases the risk of eye infections and irritations.
How to Effectively Remove Makeup
- Micellar Water: Gently removes makeup; consider placing a soaked cotton round on the eyes for 10 seconds before wiping for added effectiveness.
- Oil-Based Makeup Remover: Excellent at dissolving makeup but can clog oil glands over time, contributing to dry eyes.
- Makeup Remover Wipes: Avoid aggressive rubbing and opt for alcohol-free options to minimize irritation.
- Makeup Remover Cloths: Reusable and eco-friendly, but use a new cloth daily and avoid heavy rubbing near the eyes.
Tips for Cleaner Skincare and Beauty
Clean skincare focuses on avoiding ingredients harmful to human health. Keep in mind, “organic” or “vegan” labels do not necessarily mean the product is “clean.”
Ingredients to Avoid:
- Parabens (e.g., methylparaben)
- Phthalates (also known as forever chemicals)
- Formaldehyde
- Synthetic fragrances
- Benzalkonium chloride (BAK)
Use Caution Around the Eyes:
- Retinoids
- Talc
- Thimerosal
- Glycolic Acid/Salicylic Acid
- Kojic Acid
- Shellac
- Prostaglandin Analogs
- EDTA
These ingredients can damage meibomian glands, cause irritation, or trigger allergic reactions.
Hydration: A Key to Healthy Skin and Eyes
Drinking enough water benefits not just your overall health but also your skin and eyes. Proper hydration helps maintain tear production, reduces dryness, and keeps your skin looking fresh and supple. Pair hydration with a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support both healthy skin and tear gland function.
A Healthier You Begins Now!
Small changes can have a big impact on our long-term health. Start by reviewing your personal care products and using resources like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) database to find healthier, non-toxic alternatives. Combining these swaps with proper makeup hygiene and hydration can go a long way in protecting your eyes and skin.
At Refine Optometry, we’re here to support your wellness journey every step of the way. Have questions or need recommendations? Feel free to reach out—your trusted eye doctor in Palo Alto is here to help!
Here’s to making 2025 our healthiest year yet!