Using a certain type of cosmetic could leave you with an extremely painful eye condition, doctors have warned.
Dr. Jacqueline Beltz, an Australian ophthalmologist, said people should avoid "waterproof" makeup, as it can lead to extreme dryness of the eyes.
This painful condition can cause burning, stinging, redness in the eyes, and blurred vision.
In a TikTok video that has received over 500,000 views, Dr. Beltz said she never recommends waterproof mascara to her patients, because of its ingredients – which make the mascara last longer – but which seriously damage the eye.
"They have very drying properties because it's necessary for the mascara to dry and stay on the lashes, but this also dries out the tear film of the eye," she explained.
What is the tear layer?
The tear film is a very thin layer of fluid that covers the surface of the eye, keeping it moist and protecting it from external substances.
"Many people with sensitive eyes already suffer from a lack of natural tears, so this makes things worse."
Furthermore, waterproof make-up is much more difficult to remove – requiring stronger chemicals and more rubbing – which can further irritate sensitive eyes.”
Reactions on social media were numerous:
One user wrote: "Now I understand why my eyes itch every time I use waterproof mascara."
Another added: "I've been using this mascara since 2016 and I've had dry eyes the whole time - no one has told me anything! I'm switching immediately."
Experts warn of even more serious effects
Dr. Beltz isn't the only one raising the alarm. Dr. Julian Prosia, a Canadian optometrist, also advises avoiding waterproof makeup.
"While makeup in general can cause dry eyes, waterproof products are the most harmful, especially for those who suffer from meibomian gland dysfunction."
What is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)?
It is a common condition where the glands in the eyelids that help store tears become damaged, leading to dry eyes and irritation.
Dangerous chemicals in make-up
Dr. Huda Minhas from the University of Puerto Rico has published a list of common ingredients in cosmetics that can be dangerous to eye health – especially in waterproof mascaras:
Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) – classified as potentially carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
Benzalkonium chloride – can kill meibomian glands in just 15 minutes, even at low concentrations.
Formaldehyde – can cause dermatitis, eye and skin irritation, and even cancer.
Parabens – block meibomian glands and can disrupt hormonal functions.
Phenoxyethanol – known for eye irritation and painful skin problems.
Daily care and the risk of the "chemical cocktail"
These warnings come after an announcement from Breast Cancer UK, which said that everyday products such as shampoos and face creams could increase the risk of breast cancer.
The organization noted that using too many cosmetic products simultaneously causes a "chemical cocktail" that can interfere with the hormonal system.
According to Breast Cancer UK, the average woman in the UK is exposed to over 150 harmful chemicals a day, just through her beauty routine.
Recommendations from doctors:
✅ Use water-soluble make-up
✅ Avoid products with parabens, formaldehyde, and benzalkonium chloride
✅ Choose products certified by eye health specialists
✅ If you have dry, sensitive eyes or a history of problems, consult your ophthalmologist before using cosmetic products.
👁️ The eyes are among the most delicate organs - taking care of them should be a priority. /GazetaExpress/
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