By Dr. Mark Sibley, Florida Eye Center
The elaborate eye makeup worn by Cleopatra and Queen Nefertiti and other ancient Egyptians was believed to have healing powers, conjuring up the protection of the Gods Horus and Ra and warding off illnesses.
Cleopatra’s and Queen Nefertiti’s bold makeup 2000 years ago was primarily made by mixing lead-based chemicals to produce the dark tones and gloss, and the white materials. The lead had antibacterial properties that helped prevent infections common at the time. In ancient Egypt, during periods when the Nile flooded, Egyptians had severe eye infections caused by infections that entered the eye and caused diseases and inflammations. The scientists now believe that the lead-based makeup acted as a chemical toxin, killing bacteria before it spread.
Although many written texts, paintings and statues from the period indicate that the eye makeup was extensively used by both men and women, Egyptians believed it was magical, not medicine. But Cleopatra’s makeup is not something that is used today.
Makeup is a part of most teenage girl’s and many women’s everyday routine, but they should be aware that improperly applied makeup is a risk to the eye. Department store and drugstore makeup aisles are filled with a tempting array of makeup colors and products for the eyes. But knowing how to apply and remove eye makeup properly will not only make your eyes beautiful but will protect your vision as well. The eye doctors at Florida Eye Center want the public to know how to look your best without jeopardizing your eye health.
Moms and girls: Keep Your Eyes Beautiful and Healthy with Safe Makeup Tips
Infection: It’s very important to remember that makeup expires, especially for eye makeup. Eye makeup should be thrown away three months after it is purchased but immediately if you develop an eye infection when you are using it. Liquid or creamy makeup can harbor bacteria easily. Once you open and use mascara, cream eye shadow or face base, you should replace it within three months. Never share your makeup with anyone else. That is why using makeup testers in stores is never recommended, as it is a common route for infection.
Allergy: If you tend to be easily allergic when you try a new product, introduce only one new product at a time. If there is no reaction you can add another new product. Use the least amount of products on or around your eyes to prevent irritation or infection.
Applying: When applying makeup, be sure your face and eyelids are very clean before you begin. Never apply makeup over the oil glands of the upper or lower eyelid as these oil glands secrete oil that protects the surface of the eye. To avoid covering the oil glands or inadvertently applying makeup directly on the eye, always apply makeup outside the lash line, away from the eye. To prevent poking yourself in the eye with an applicator, never apply makeup while you are in a moving vehicle.(We see this happen all the time !)
If you tend to have dry eyes, makeup that flakes and gets into the tear film can increase your eyes’ irritation. In such cases, you should discontinue use of powder eye shadow and glitter makeup. Be especially careful of glittery eye makeup getting into the eye, as this is a common cause of corneal irritation and can cause redness of the eye. If particles get between the contact lens and corneal surface, they can scratch the cornea and may lead to infection. Occasionally a corneal abrasion can become infected, leading to a potentially blinding corneal ulcer.�
Removing: At night, remove all eye makeup, especially mascara that can stick to the lashes. Use a clean warm washcloth or clean cotton swab to brush along the base of the eyelashes to get the last resistant debris of eye makeup off. If you use an eye makeup remover, make sure you don’t get any in your eye. When you are done, rinse the remover off your eyelids completely to avoid possible irritation of the eye or lids.
If you think you have an eye infection or allergic reaction to your eye makeup, it is important to stop the make-up seek medical care.
With regard to infection and inflammation, symptoms to look out for include redness, crusty eyelashes, itching, irritation, scaling, pain, and blurred vision. Another type of inflammation called blepharitis(“granulated eyelids”) may present with greasy or dry scales on the eyelids and eyelashes. In most cases, these inflammatory conditions can be treated by your Primary Care (PCP) with simple eye washes and/or antibiotics. A style usually appears as a red, swollen lump that is tender and tends to be recurrent. These can be treated with hot compresses at home or, if necessary, your PCP may determine the need for antibiotics.
In summary, when used properly, cosmetics can safely enhance the beauty of your eyes. Consult your eye doctor if you have further questions about the safe use of eye cosmetics.
Another new option for busy, active patients at the Florida Eye Center is to consider using Latisse. Latisse is a safe and easy to use, FDA approved treatment for treating short, blond eyelashes. Latisse is used to grow eyelashes longer, thicker, and darker and decrease the need for mascara. Ask the eye doctors at Florida Eye Center about Latisse and if it right for you.
Florida Eye Center
Phone: 727-895-2020
1515 9th Avenue N., St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Website: www.FloridaEyeCenter.com
