The number of people using contact lenses is rapidly increasing today. Contact lenses, which can also satisfy the desire for “colored eyes,” can pose serious risks if basic rules are not followed.

It is known that 70% of global contact lens users are women, and most of them pay great attention to their skincare and makeup routines. However, to protect eye health, it is important to consider the interactions between contact lenses and cosmetic products. The Turkish Ophthalmology Association (TOD), which represents Turkish ophthalmologists, has provided information on what to pay attention to when using contact lenses.

Unlike glasses, contact lenses are applied directly to the surface of the eye and stay on the cornea throughout the day. This means that contact lenses are in constant contact with tears and the eyelids. Since we blink 12,000 to 20,000 times a day, there is a high chance that eye creams, eyeshadows, mascaras, eyeliners, and other products will come into contact with both the eye and the lens surface. Especially in situations where the eye reflexively tears, all substances applied to the eye area spread across the eye surface and contact lenses. Scientific studies show that these substances can accumulate on the lens surface. Even if we clean our contact lenses with solution every night before going to bed, some oil-based ingredients (especially those that do not wash off with water) can remain on the lens structure and lead to allergic reactions, immune system problems, and infections if used over time.

Long-term contact lens usage, wearing lenses while sleeping, the accumulation of bacteria under the lenses, herpes virus, not cleaning contact lenses or their storage cases, reusing expired lenses or solution can lead to infections, blurry vision, redness, pain, excessive tearing, discharge, and sensitivity to light. If any of these symptoms occur, it is important to consult an eye doctor as soon as possible.

4 Golden Rules for Contact Lens Use:
For your eye health, be sure to consult with an eye doctor regarding the proper use of contact lenses and cosmetics.

1. Hygiene is a Priority: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before handling contact lenses. Rinse and dry them well. Be sure to keep your nails short.
2. Put On Lenses Before Makeup: Always wear your contact lenses before touching your face or applying makeup. Avoid applying makeup near the lash line to reduce the risk of products transferring to the lens surface.
3. Follow the Correct Order: When removing your lenses, first wash your hands thoroughly with soap, rinse, and dry them. After removing the lenses with clean hands, place them in the lens case with solution. Then, remove your makeup. Makeup removal products should not come in contact with lenses when they are on the eyes.
4. Permanent Makeup and False Eyelash Applications: These procedures may harm the Meibomian glands located near the eyelash line, which contribute to tear production. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the person performing these procedures is knowledgeable and that the materials used are suitable. These procedures can lead to serious allergic reactions and infections. If you experience pain, redness, burning, or discomfort while wearing contact lenses, remove them immediately and consult an eye doctor, as samples from your lenses, case, and solution may be needed if an infection is present.

All experts agree that contact lens use should always begin under the supervision of an eye doctor. Contact lenses are used for the treatment of some eye diseases, refractive errors, and cosmetic purposes. However, improper use can lead to serious problems, including corneal infections, immune reactions, allergic issues, dry eyes, and other eye diseases, which can negatively affect your vision quality and daily life.

March 2025