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Makeup Tips for Dry Eye: Can you wear eyelash extensions?  

When you’re suffering from Dry Eye Disease, you may be reluctant to introduce anything to your routine that could irritate or aggravate your tired, itchy eyes. But understandably, you might still want to look and feel good. Should you give up on makeup and beauty treatments altogether?  

 

Of course not, there’s still a way to wear makeup and treat yourself without making your Dry Eye Disease worse or letting it control your life. It’s just about choosing the right products and treatments, and ensuring you’re committed to self-care and treating your Dry Eye Syndrome.  

 

Eyelash Extensions

One of the biggest new beauty treatments is eyelash extensions. One survey of women aged 18-65 showed that ¾ of them wanted longer, thicker, and darker lashes.[1] The majority of those looking for the treatment are women – in fact, 98% of lash extension customers are women.[2]

This is incredibly important when considering how eyelash extensions affect dry eyes as the condition is more common in women than men.  

So, can women with Dry Eye Disease jump onto the beauty trend and wear eyelash extensions?  

 

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry Eye Disease is an incredibly common condition that causes symptoms of irritation, redness, tiredness, and burning of the eyes.[3] This happens because of insufficient tear quantity or inadequate tear quality.[4]

 

It has been linked to hormonal issues that are common when women enter perimenopause[5] as well as age, lifestyle, and environmental factors such as spending time in windy or dusty environments.[6]

 

A close up of a woman's eyes

 

Why can eyelash extensions trigger or aggravate Dry Eye Disease?

It is worth noting that there are two different types of eyelash extensions – temporary and permanent. Temporary eyelash extensions are usually strips or clusters that are glued to the eyes and removed after a few hours. Permanent eyelash extensions can last for weeks and are applied individually or in clusters with a much stronger adhesive.  

 

A recent study showed that after just one hour of eyelash extensions being applied, 59% of participants experience foreign body sensations, which can cause Dry Eye Syndrome.[7]

 

A scientific study from the Journal of the Royal Society Interface stated that normal eyelash length shouldn’t exceed two-thirds of the eye’s width with the optimal length being one-third, meaning if your eyelashes are too long you cannot blink completely.[8] This means air can enter the eyes more easily causing dehydration and stopping you from lubricating your eyes efficiently by not blinking. Dehydration of the eye surface is one of the major causes of Dry Eye Disease.  

 

However, it’s not just the length and addition to the eye that causes the symptoms of dry eye. The adhesive of eyelash extensions is also a problem. The glue is placed close to the meibomian gland at the root of the lashes which risks damage to the glands that play a vital role in tear production. Without sufficient quality and quantity of tears, you can start to suffer from Dry Eye Disease.[9] 

 

The strong adhesive for eyelash extensions can include toxic components too, causing allergic reactions and irritation.[10] 

 

A close up image of a woman's eyes with eyelash extensions

 

How to avoid dry eye symptoms and wear eyelash extensions

One of the most important steps to take if you still want eyelash extensions is to get serious about tackling and treating your Dry Eye.  

 

Take a look at the eyedrops available on VISUShop that can help repair the eye surface and soothe symptoms here.  

 

If you do want to go ahead with eyelash extension application: 

  • Ensure your aesthetician is fully certified and following safe and hygienic practices.  
  • Make sure to keep up with proper maintenance and cleanliness.  
  • Finally consider getting shorter and less full extensions.  

 

Another option is to use temporary strip false eyelashes to get your desired look occasionally. Remove them if you experience irritation and ensure if you’re reusing them that you’re cleaning them properly to avoid bacteria build up.  

You can even find magnetic eyelash extensions as opposed to traditional false eyelashes. This means you’ll avoid using glue which can be harmful to your eye health.[11] 

 

Makeup and Dry Eye Disease

Another alternative to eyelash extensions is mascara. Since you can properly remove mascara after each use, and it only coats your natural lashes (instead of adding extra irritation and bulk to the root of the eyelash) they’re less likely to cause symptoms of Dry Eye Disease. However, mascara can still irritate so opt for regular mascara rather than two-step mascara which may flake and fall into the eyes.[12]

If you’d like to find more tips for dry eyes and makeup, take a look at this blog on the subject.  

 

A woman applies mascara to her eyelashes in front of a mirror

 

It is possible to wear false eyelashes and get eyelash extensions when you suffer from Dry Eye Disease as long as you’re following best practices. However, if you’d like to treat and soothe your dry eyes, we advise that natural is always the best option.  

 

For more information about Dry Eye Disease and your dry eyes, follow us on social media @dryeyeandme and explore the rest of our blogs.  

 

References

  1. Dry Eye Zone, ‘The Truth About Eyelash Extensions: Risks, Side Effects, and Safer Alternatives’, 04/04/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  2. Dolvlashes, ‘Complete Statistics on Eyelash Trends for Lash Artists’, Last Accessed August 2024
  3. Dry Eye and Me, ‘Dry Eye Symptoms’, Last Accessed August 2024
  4. Lazarus, Russel, ‘Why Do Dry Eyes Affect Women More Than Men?’, 13/12/2020, Last Accessed August 2024
  5. O’Keefe Osborn, Corinne, ‘What’s the Link Between Dry Eye and Menopause?’, 04/04/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  6. Dry Eye and Me, ‘Dry Eye Syndrome’, Last Accessed August 2024
  7. Han, Jiaxin et al, ‘The Effects of Eyelash extensions on the Ocular Surface’, 21/03/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  8. J, Amador, Guillermo et al, ‘Eyelashes Divert Airflow to Protect the Eye’, 06/04/2025, Last Accessed August 2024
  9. My Dry Eye Disease, ‘False Eyelashes and Dry Eye’, 05/04/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
  10. Nguyen, Diana, ‘Can Fake Eyelashes Cause Dry Eye?’, 12/09/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
  11. Yang, Lily, ‘Stop Eyelash Extensions if you Have Dry Eyes’, 22/04/2021, Last Accessed August 2024
  12. Seltman, Whitney, ‘Makeup Tips for Dry Eye’, 08/11/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
Back to news

Dry Eyes: The Unexpected Symptom of Menopause

When you’re suffering from Dry Eye Disease, you may be reluctant to introduce anything to your routine that could irritate or aggravate your tired, itchy eyes. But understandably, you might still want to look and feel good. Should you give up on makeup and beauty treatments altogether?  

 

Of course not, there’s still a way to wear makeup and treat yourself without making your Dry Eye Disease worse or letting it control your life. It’s just about choosing the right products and treatments, and ensuring you’re committed to self-care and treating your Dry Eye Syndrome.  

 

Eyelash Extensions

One of the biggest new beauty treatments is eyelash extensions. One survey of women aged 18-65 showed that ¾ of them wanted longer, thicker, and darker lashes.[1] The majority of those looking for the treatment are women – in fact, 98% of lash extension customers are women.[2]

This is incredibly important when considering how eyelash extensions affect dry eyes as the condition is more common in women than men.  

So, can women with Dry Eye Disease jump onto the beauty trend and wear eyelash extensions?  

 

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry Eye Disease is an incredibly common condition that causes symptoms of irritation, redness, tiredness, and burning of the eyes.[3] This happens because of insufficient tear quantity or inadequate tear quality.[4]

 

It has been linked to hormonal issues that are common when women enter perimenopause[5] as well as age, lifestyle, and environmental factors such as spending time in windy or dusty environments.[6]

 

A close up of a woman's eyes

 

Why can eyelash extensions trigger or aggravate Dry Eye Disease?

It is worth noting that there are two different types of eyelash extensions – temporary and permanent. Temporary eyelash extensions are usually strips or clusters that are glued to the eyes and removed after a few hours. Permanent eyelash extensions can last for weeks and are applied individually or in clusters with a much stronger adhesive.  

 

A recent study showed that after just one hour of eyelash extensions being applied, 59% of participants experience foreign body sensations, which can cause Dry Eye Syndrome.[7]

 

A scientific study from the Journal of the Royal Society Interface stated that normal eyelash length shouldn’t exceed two-thirds of the eye’s width with the optimal length being one-third, meaning if your eyelashes are too long you cannot blink completely.[8] This means air can enter the eyes more easily causing dehydration and stopping you from lubricating your eyes efficiently by not blinking. Dehydration of the eye surface is one of the major causes of Dry Eye Disease.  

 

However, it’s not just the length and addition to the eye that causes the symptoms of dry eye. The adhesive of eyelash extensions is also a problem. The glue is placed close to the meibomian gland at the root of the lashes which risks damage to the glands that play a vital role in tear production. Without sufficient quality and quantity of tears, you can start to suffer from Dry Eye Disease.[9] 

 

The strong adhesive for eyelash extensions can include toxic components too, causing allergic reactions and irritation.[10] 

 

A close up image of a woman's eyes with eyelash extensions

 

How to avoid dry eye symptoms and wear eyelash extensions

One of the most important steps to take if you still want eyelash extensions is to get serious about tackling and treating your Dry Eye.  

 

Take a look at the eyedrops available on VISUShop that can help repair the eye surface and soothe symptoms here.  

 

If you do want to go ahead with eyelash extension application: 

  • Ensure your aesthetician is fully certified and following safe and hygienic practices.  
  • Make sure to keep up with proper maintenance and cleanliness.  
  • Finally consider getting shorter and less full extensions.  

 

Another option is to use temporary strip false eyelashes to get your desired look occasionally. Remove them if you experience irritation and ensure if you’re reusing them that you’re cleaning them properly to avoid bacteria build up.  

You can even find magnetic eyelash extensions as opposed to traditional false eyelashes. This means you’ll avoid using glue which can be harmful to your eye health.[11] 

 

Makeup and Dry Eye Disease

Another alternative to eyelash extensions is mascara. Since you can properly remove mascara after each use, and it only coats your natural lashes (instead of adding extra irritation and bulk to the root of the eyelash) they’re less likely to cause symptoms of Dry Eye Disease. However, mascara can still irritate so opt for regular mascara rather than two-step mascara which may flake and fall into the eyes.[12]

If you’d like to find more tips for dry eyes and makeup, take a look at this blog on the subject.  

 

A woman applies mascara to her eyelashes in front of a mirror

 

It is possible to wear false eyelashes and get eyelash extensions when you suffer from Dry Eye Disease as long as you’re following best practices. However, if you’d like to treat and soothe your dry eyes, we advise that natural is always the best option.  

 

For more information about Dry Eye Disease and your dry eyes, follow us on social media @dryeyeandme and explore the rest of our blogs.  

 

References

  1. Dry Eye Zone, ‘The Truth About Eyelash Extensions: Risks, Side Effects, and Safer Alternatives’, 04/04/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  2. Dolvlashes, ‘Complete Statistics on Eyelash Trends for Lash Artists’, Last Accessed August 2024
  3. Dry Eye and Me, ‘Dry Eye Symptoms’, Last Accessed August 2024
  4. Lazarus, Russel, ‘Why Do Dry Eyes Affect Women More Than Men?’, 13/12/2020, Last Accessed August 2024
  5. O’Keefe Osborn, Corinne, ‘What’s the Link Between Dry Eye and Menopause?’, 04/04/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  6. Dry Eye and Me, ‘Dry Eye Syndrome’, Last Accessed August 2024
  7. Han, Jiaxin et al, ‘The Effects of Eyelash extensions on the Ocular Surface’, 21/03/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  8. J, Amador, Guillermo et al, ‘Eyelashes Divert Airflow to Protect the Eye’, 06/04/2025, Last Accessed August 2024
  9. My Dry Eye Disease, ‘False Eyelashes and Dry Eye’, 05/04/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
  10. Nguyen, Diana, ‘Can Fake Eyelashes Cause Dry Eye?’, 12/09/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
  11. Yang, Lily, ‘Stop Eyelash Extensions if you Have Dry Eyes’, 22/04/2021, Last Accessed August 2024
  12. Seltman, Whitney, ‘Makeup Tips for Dry Eye’, 08/11/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
Back to news

Dry Eye and Menopause Demystified 

When you’re suffering from Dry Eye Disease, you may be reluctant to introduce anything to your routine that could irritate or aggravate your tired, itchy eyes. But understandably, you might still want to look and feel good. Should you give up on makeup and beauty treatments altogether?  

 

Of course not, there’s still a way to wear makeup and treat yourself without making your Dry Eye Disease worse or letting it control your life. It’s just about choosing the right products and treatments, and ensuring you’re committed to self-care and treating your Dry Eye Syndrome.  

 

Eyelash Extensions

One of the biggest new beauty treatments is eyelash extensions. One survey of women aged 18-65 showed that ¾ of them wanted longer, thicker, and darker lashes.[1] The majority of those looking for the treatment are women – in fact, 98% of lash extension customers are women.[2]

This is incredibly important when considering how eyelash extensions affect dry eyes as the condition is more common in women than men.  

So, can women with Dry Eye Disease jump onto the beauty trend and wear eyelash extensions?  

 

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry Eye Disease is an incredibly common condition that causes symptoms of irritation, redness, tiredness, and burning of the eyes.[3] This happens because of insufficient tear quantity or inadequate tear quality.[4]

 

It has been linked to hormonal issues that are common when women enter perimenopause[5] as well as age, lifestyle, and environmental factors such as spending time in windy or dusty environments.[6]

 

A close up of a woman's eyes

 

Why can eyelash extensions trigger or aggravate Dry Eye Disease?

It is worth noting that there are two different types of eyelash extensions – temporary and permanent. Temporary eyelash extensions are usually strips or clusters that are glued to the eyes and removed after a few hours. Permanent eyelash extensions can last for weeks and are applied individually or in clusters with a much stronger adhesive.  

 

A recent study showed that after just one hour of eyelash extensions being applied, 59% of participants experience foreign body sensations, which can cause Dry Eye Syndrome.[7]

 

A scientific study from the Journal of the Royal Society Interface stated that normal eyelash length shouldn’t exceed two-thirds of the eye’s width with the optimal length being one-third, meaning if your eyelashes are too long you cannot blink completely.[8] This means air can enter the eyes more easily causing dehydration and stopping you from lubricating your eyes efficiently by not blinking. Dehydration of the eye surface is one of the major causes of Dry Eye Disease.  

 

However, it’s not just the length and addition to the eye that causes the symptoms of dry eye. The adhesive of eyelash extensions is also a problem. The glue is placed close to the meibomian gland at the root of the lashes which risks damage to the glands that play a vital role in tear production. Without sufficient quality and quantity of tears, you can start to suffer from Dry Eye Disease.[9] 

 

The strong adhesive for eyelash extensions can include toxic components too, causing allergic reactions and irritation.[10] 

 

A close up image of a woman's eyes with eyelash extensions

 

How to avoid dry eye symptoms and wear eyelash extensions

One of the most important steps to take if you still want eyelash extensions is to get serious about tackling and treating your Dry Eye.  

 

Take a look at the eyedrops available on VISUShop that can help repair the eye surface and soothe symptoms here.  

 

If you do want to go ahead with eyelash extension application: 

  • Ensure your aesthetician is fully certified and following safe and hygienic practices.  
  • Make sure to keep up with proper maintenance and cleanliness.  
  • Finally consider getting shorter and less full extensions.  

 

Another option is to use temporary strip false eyelashes to get your desired look occasionally. Remove them if you experience irritation and ensure if you’re reusing them that you’re cleaning them properly to avoid bacteria build up.  

You can even find magnetic eyelash extensions as opposed to traditional false eyelashes. This means you’ll avoid using glue which can be harmful to your eye health.[11] 

 

Makeup and Dry Eye Disease

Another alternative to eyelash extensions is mascara. Since you can properly remove mascara after each use, and it only coats your natural lashes (instead of adding extra irritation and bulk to the root of the eyelash) they’re less likely to cause symptoms of Dry Eye Disease. However, mascara can still irritate so opt for regular mascara rather than two-step mascara which may flake and fall into the eyes.[12]

If you’d like to find more tips for dry eyes and makeup, take a look at this blog on the subject.  

 

A woman applies mascara to her eyelashes in front of a mirror

 

It is possible to wear false eyelashes and get eyelash extensions when you suffer from Dry Eye Disease as long as you’re following best practices. However, if you’d like to treat and soothe your dry eyes, we advise that natural is always the best option.  

 

For more information about Dry Eye Disease and your dry eyes, follow us on social media @dryeyeandme and explore the rest of our blogs.  

 

References

  1. Dry Eye Zone, ‘The Truth About Eyelash Extensions: Risks, Side Effects, and Safer Alternatives’, 04/04/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  2. Dolvlashes, ‘Complete Statistics on Eyelash Trends for Lash Artists’, Last Accessed August 2024
  3. Dry Eye and Me, ‘Dry Eye Symptoms’, Last Accessed August 2024
  4. Lazarus, Russel, ‘Why Do Dry Eyes Affect Women More Than Men?’, 13/12/2020, Last Accessed August 2024
  5. O’Keefe Osborn, Corinne, ‘What’s the Link Between Dry Eye and Menopause?’, 04/04/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  6. Dry Eye and Me, ‘Dry Eye Syndrome’, Last Accessed August 2024
  7. Han, Jiaxin et al, ‘The Effects of Eyelash extensions on the Ocular Surface’, 21/03/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  8. J, Amador, Guillermo et al, ‘Eyelashes Divert Airflow to Protect the Eye’, 06/04/2025, Last Accessed August 2024
  9. My Dry Eye Disease, ‘False Eyelashes and Dry Eye’, 05/04/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
  10. Nguyen, Diana, ‘Can Fake Eyelashes Cause Dry Eye?’, 12/09/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
  11. Yang, Lily, ‘Stop Eyelash Extensions if you Have Dry Eyes’, 22/04/2021, Last Accessed August 2024
  12. Seltman, Whitney, ‘Makeup Tips for Dry Eye’, 08/11/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
Back to news

Dealing with Dry Eye and Menopause in the Office

When you’re suffering from Dry Eye Disease, you may be reluctant to introduce anything to your routine that could irritate or aggravate your tired, itchy eyes. But understandably, you might still want to look and feel good. Should you give up on makeup and beauty treatments altogether?  

 

Of course not, there’s still a way to wear makeup and treat yourself without making your Dry Eye Disease worse or letting it control your life. It’s just about choosing the right products and treatments, and ensuring you’re committed to self-care and treating your Dry Eye Syndrome.  

 

Eyelash Extensions

One of the biggest new beauty treatments is eyelash extensions. One survey of women aged 18-65 showed that ¾ of them wanted longer, thicker, and darker lashes.[1] The majority of those looking for the treatment are women – in fact, 98% of lash extension customers are women.[2]

This is incredibly important when considering how eyelash extensions affect dry eyes as the condition is more common in women than men.  

So, can women with Dry Eye Disease jump onto the beauty trend and wear eyelash extensions?  

 

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry Eye Disease is an incredibly common condition that causes symptoms of irritation, redness, tiredness, and burning of the eyes.[3] This happens because of insufficient tear quantity or inadequate tear quality.[4]

 

It has been linked to hormonal issues that are common when women enter perimenopause[5] as well as age, lifestyle, and environmental factors such as spending time in windy or dusty environments.[6]

 

A close up of a woman's eyes

 

Why can eyelash extensions trigger or aggravate Dry Eye Disease?

It is worth noting that there are two different types of eyelash extensions – temporary and permanent. Temporary eyelash extensions are usually strips or clusters that are glued to the eyes and removed after a few hours. Permanent eyelash extensions can last for weeks and are applied individually or in clusters with a much stronger adhesive.  

 

A recent study showed that after just one hour of eyelash extensions being applied, 59% of participants experience foreign body sensations, which can cause Dry Eye Syndrome.[7]

 

A scientific study from the Journal of the Royal Society Interface stated that normal eyelash length shouldn’t exceed two-thirds of the eye’s width with the optimal length being one-third, meaning if your eyelashes are too long you cannot blink completely.[8] This means air can enter the eyes more easily causing dehydration and stopping you from lubricating your eyes efficiently by not blinking. Dehydration of the eye surface is one of the major causes of Dry Eye Disease.  

 

However, it’s not just the length and addition to the eye that causes the symptoms of dry eye. The adhesive of eyelash extensions is also a problem. The glue is placed close to the meibomian gland at the root of the lashes which risks damage to the glands that play a vital role in tear production. Without sufficient quality and quantity of tears, you can start to suffer from Dry Eye Disease.[9] 

 

The strong adhesive for eyelash extensions can include toxic components too, causing allergic reactions and irritation.[10] 

 

A close up image of a woman's eyes with eyelash extensions

 

How to avoid dry eye symptoms and wear eyelash extensions

One of the most important steps to take if you still want eyelash extensions is to get serious about tackling and treating your Dry Eye.  

 

Take a look at the eyedrops available on VISUShop that can help repair the eye surface and soothe symptoms here.  

 

If you do want to go ahead with eyelash extension application: 

  • Ensure your aesthetician is fully certified and following safe and hygienic practices.  
  • Make sure to keep up with proper maintenance and cleanliness.  
  • Finally consider getting shorter and less full extensions.  

 

Another option is to use temporary strip false eyelashes to get your desired look occasionally. Remove them if you experience irritation and ensure if you’re reusing them that you’re cleaning them properly to avoid bacteria build up.  

You can even find magnetic eyelash extensions as opposed to traditional false eyelashes. This means you’ll avoid using glue which can be harmful to your eye health.[11] 

 

Makeup and Dry Eye Disease

Another alternative to eyelash extensions is mascara. Since you can properly remove mascara after each use, and it only coats your natural lashes (instead of adding extra irritation and bulk to the root of the eyelash) they’re less likely to cause symptoms of Dry Eye Disease. However, mascara can still irritate so opt for regular mascara rather than two-step mascara which may flake and fall into the eyes.[12]

If you’d like to find more tips for dry eyes and makeup, take a look at this blog on the subject.  

 

A woman applies mascara to her eyelashes in front of a mirror

 

It is possible to wear false eyelashes and get eyelash extensions when you suffer from Dry Eye Disease as long as you’re following best practices. However, if you’d like to treat and soothe your dry eyes, we advise that natural is always the best option.  

 

For more information about Dry Eye Disease and your dry eyes, follow us on social media @dryeyeandme and explore the rest of our blogs.  

 

References

  1. Dry Eye Zone, ‘The Truth About Eyelash Extensions: Risks, Side Effects, and Safer Alternatives’, 04/04/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  2. Dolvlashes, ‘Complete Statistics on Eyelash Trends for Lash Artists’, Last Accessed August 2024
  3. Dry Eye and Me, ‘Dry Eye Symptoms’, Last Accessed August 2024
  4. Lazarus, Russel, ‘Why Do Dry Eyes Affect Women More Than Men?’, 13/12/2020, Last Accessed August 2024
  5. O’Keefe Osborn, Corinne, ‘What’s the Link Between Dry Eye and Menopause?’, 04/04/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  6. Dry Eye and Me, ‘Dry Eye Syndrome’, Last Accessed August 2024
  7. Han, Jiaxin et al, ‘The Effects of Eyelash extensions on the Ocular Surface’, 21/03/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  8. J, Amador, Guillermo et al, ‘Eyelashes Divert Airflow to Protect the Eye’, 06/04/2025, Last Accessed August 2024
  9. My Dry Eye Disease, ‘False Eyelashes and Dry Eye’, 05/04/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
  10. Nguyen, Diana, ‘Can Fake Eyelashes Cause Dry Eye?’, 12/09/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
  11. Yang, Lily, ‘Stop Eyelash Extensions if you Have Dry Eyes’, 22/04/2021, Last Accessed August 2024
  12. Seltman, Whitney, ‘Makeup Tips for Dry Eye’, 08/11/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
Back to news

Unexpected Dry Eye Symptoms to Watch Out For

When you’re suffering from Dry Eye Disease, you may be reluctant to introduce anything to your routine that could irritate or aggravate your tired, itchy eyes. But understandably, you might still want to look and feel good. Should you give up on makeup and beauty treatments altogether?  

 

Of course not, there’s still a way to wear makeup and treat yourself without making your Dry Eye Disease worse or letting it control your life. It’s just about choosing the right products and treatments, and ensuring you’re committed to self-care and treating your Dry Eye Syndrome.  

 

Eyelash Extensions

One of the biggest new beauty treatments is eyelash extensions. One survey of women aged 18-65 showed that ¾ of them wanted longer, thicker, and darker lashes.[1] The majority of those looking for the treatment are women – in fact, 98% of lash extension customers are women.[2]

This is incredibly important when considering how eyelash extensions affect dry eyes as the condition is more common in women than men.  

So, can women with Dry Eye Disease jump onto the beauty trend and wear eyelash extensions?  

 

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry Eye Disease is an incredibly common condition that causes symptoms of irritation, redness, tiredness, and burning of the eyes.[3] This happens because of insufficient tear quantity or inadequate tear quality.[4]

 

It has been linked to hormonal issues that are common when women enter perimenopause[5] as well as age, lifestyle, and environmental factors such as spending time in windy or dusty environments.[6]

 

A close up of a woman's eyes

 

Why can eyelash extensions trigger or aggravate Dry Eye Disease?

It is worth noting that there are two different types of eyelash extensions – temporary and permanent. Temporary eyelash extensions are usually strips or clusters that are glued to the eyes and removed after a few hours. Permanent eyelash extensions can last for weeks and are applied individually or in clusters with a much stronger adhesive.  

 

A recent study showed that after just one hour of eyelash extensions being applied, 59% of participants experience foreign body sensations, which can cause Dry Eye Syndrome.[7]

 

A scientific study from the Journal of the Royal Society Interface stated that normal eyelash length shouldn’t exceed two-thirds of the eye’s width with the optimal length being one-third, meaning if your eyelashes are too long you cannot blink completely.[8] This means air can enter the eyes more easily causing dehydration and stopping you from lubricating your eyes efficiently by not blinking. Dehydration of the eye surface is one of the major causes of Dry Eye Disease.  

 

However, it’s not just the length and addition to the eye that causes the symptoms of dry eye. The adhesive of eyelash extensions is also a problem. The glue is placed close to the meibomian gland at the root of the lashes which risks damage to the glands that play a vital role in tear production. Without sufficient quality and quantity of tears, you can start to suffer from Dry Eye Disease.[9] 

 

The strong adhesive for eyelash extensions can include toxic components too, causing allergic reactions and irritation.[10] 

 

A close up image of a woman's eyes with eyelash extensions

 

How to avoid dry eye symptoms and wear eyelash extensions

One of the most important steps to take if you still want eyelash extensions is to get serious about tackling and treating your Dry Eye.  

 

Take a look at the eyedrops available on VISUShop that can help repair the eye surface and soothe symptoms here.  

 

If you do want to go ahead with eyelash extension application: 

  • Ensure your aesthetician is fully certified and following safe and hygienic practices.  
  • Make sure to keep up with proper maintenance and cleanliness.  
  • Finally consider getting shorter and less full extensions.  

 

Another option is to use temporary strip false eyelashes to get your desired look occasionally. Remove them if you experience irritation and ensure if you’re reusing them that you’re cleaning them properly to avoid bacteria build up.  

You can even find magnetic eyelash extensions as opposed to traditional false eyelashes. This means you’ll avoid using glue which can be harmful to your eye health.[11] 

 

Makeup and Dry Eye Disease

Another alternative to eyelash extensions is mascara. Since you can properly remove mascara after each use, and it only coats your natural lashes (instead of adding extra irritation and bulk to the root of the eyelash) they’re less likely to cause symptoms of Dry Eye Disease. However, mascara can still irritate so opt for regular mascara rather than two-step mascara which may flake and fall into the eyes.[12]

If you’d like to find more tips for dry eyes and makeup, take a look at this blog on the subject.  

 

A woman applies mascara to her eyelashes in front of a mirror

 

It is possible to wear false eyelashes and get eyelash extensions when you suffer from Dry Eye Disease as long as you’re following best practices. However, if you’d like to treat and soothe your dry eyes, we advise that natural is always the best option.  

 

For more information about Dry Eye Disease and your dry eyes, follow us on social media @dryeyeandme and explore the rest of our blogs.  

 

References

  1. Dry Eye Zone, ‘The Truth About Eyelash Extensions: Risks, Side Effects, and Safer Alternatives’, 04/04/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  2. Dolvlashes, ‘Complete Statistics on Eyelash Trends for Lash Artists’, Last Accessed August 2024
  3. Dry Eye and Me, ‘Dry Eye Symptoms’, Last Accessed August 2024
  4. Lazarus, Russel, ‘Why Do Dry Eyes Affect Women More Than Men?’, 13/12/2020, Last Accessed August 2024
  5. O’Keefe Osborn, Corinne, ‘What’s the Link Between Dry Eye and Menopause?’, 04/04/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  6. Dry Eye and Me, ‘Dry Eye Syndrome’, Last Accessed August 2024
  7. Han, Jiaxin et al, ‘The Effects of Eyelash extensions on the Ocular Surface’, 21/03/2024, Last Accessed August 2024
  8. J, Amador, Guillermo et al, ‘Eyelashes Divert Airflow to Protect the Eye’, 06/04/2025, Last Accessed August 2024
  9. My Dry Eye Disease, ‘False Eyelashes and Dry Eye’, 05/04/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
  10. Nguyen, Diana, ‘Can Fake Eyelashes Cause Dry Eye?’, 12/09/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
  11. Yang, Lily, ‘Stop Eyelash Extensions if you Have Dry Eyes’, 22/04/2021, Last Accessed August 2024
  12. Seltman, Whitney, ‘Makeup Tips for Dry Eye’, 08/11/2022, Last Accessed August 2024
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10 Tips to Ease Dry Eye at Night

Dry Eyes at night can be very problematic, causing eyes to be itchy and irritable. In this blog, we’ll be sharing our top tips to help your eyes.

These tips are:

  1. Use a warm compress before bed
  2. Stay hydrated
  3. Use a foam cleanser 
  4. Put a humidifier for dry eyes in your bedroom
  5. No phones before bed
  6. Wear moisture chamber goggles
  7. Follow a skin-care routine
  8. Avoid scented candles
  9. Wash your bedding regularly
  10. Use eye drops, like our VisuXL gel, before bed

What is Dry Eye?

Dry Eye Syndrome, or Dry Eye Disease, is a condition which affects 1 in 4 people in the UK.[1] Symptoms of Dry Eye can include dry, itchy, gritty, sore and watery eyes, as well as sensitivity to light and blurred vision.[2]

Causes of chronic Dry Eye Syndrome include age, gender, environment, eye surgery, lifestyle choices like smoking and drinking alcohol, and pre-existing conditions including diabetes and hypothyroidism.[3]

Dry Eye

Why do I have itchy, dry eyes at night?

Dry eyes can often get worse at night. In fact, some people even suffer from dry eyes only when sleeping.

There are multiple reasons why Dry Eye symptoms are worse at night. For example, some people experience nocturnal lagophthalmos, which is a condition where the eyelids are unable to close properly at night, exposing the eyes to dry air which can increase irritation and itching.[4]


Also, the body’s metabolism and blood circulation slow at night when you are asleep. Fewer nutrients reach your eyes, which means that your eyes can’t produce as many tears, which can lead to night-time dry eyes.[5]

There are other lifestyle factors like contact lenses and excess screen time during the day that can make you more likely to suffer from dry eyes at night.

 

Dry Eyes

Why do my eyes keep watering at night?

When we get into bed and lie down, our eyes can begin to water. This is because your tears cannot drain properly, with gravity no longer pushing your tears into your tear ducts.[6] This can also be linked to conditions such as nocturnal lagophthalmos.[4]

How to get rid of dry eyelids overnight:

It’s not just our eyes that can be negatively impacted on a night. Dry eyelids can be caused by skin conditions like dermatitis, as well as dry air and ageing.

To treat dry eyelids, it is best to see your doctor who may prescribe you allergy tested medication or other moisture based products to treat your condition.[7]

What can I do to reduce dry eyes at night?

Dry eyes at night can be prevented in a number of ways, to ensure that you have a great night’s sleep. Here are our top 10 tips to reduce night-time Dry Eye.

 

Woman in mask in bed

1. Use a warm compress before bed

Before bed, apply a warm compress to your eyes to help melt the oils blocking your Meibomian glands and minimise dry eye symptoms in the night.[8] This can help to stop your eyes from stinging at night, as the compress can provide a gentle and soothing eyelid massage.[9]

MeiboPatch® is an eye compress with a unique temperature test strip feature. This enables the compress to reach the perfect temperature and maintain the desired heat required to melt the meibomian glands. A regular flannel, on the other hand, rapidly loses heat and is therefore far less effective.[7][9]

Shop our MeiboPatch® today here.

 

Dry Eye

 2. Stay hydrated

This is a general rule of thumb for sufferers of dry eye, because staying well hydrated has been scientifically proven to help ease symptoms. Consistently drinking water throughout the day can therefore help to lessen the impact of symptoms at night.[10]

You should aim to drink between 8 and 10 glasses of water a day if you suffer from Dry Eye Syndrome.[11]
It is also a good idea to sleep with a glass of water by your bedside, in case you need rehydration during the night.

 

Foam

3. Use a foam cleanser 

After applying the compress and massaging your glands, you will need to clean away the secretions from your unblocked Meibomian glands and any dirt or irritants that have built up during the day.[12] For the best results, cleanse using the Naviblef ® Intensive Care eyelid foam or Naviblef ® Daily Care foam to cleanse the eyes, as they are non-greasy and non-irritant.[13]

Cleansing using an optimal foam formulation is a great way to ease itchy eyes at night, with purified water being the main ingredient in many products.[14] Purified water has been cleansed of organic irritants, which makes it incredibly safe for the eyes.[15]

You can shop our range of foam cleansers here.

 

Dry Eye

 4. Put a humidifier for dry eyes in your bedroom 

By turning on a humidifier in your room at night, you fill the air with moisture and protect your eyes from potential dryness.  Humidifiers protect your tear film from damage.

A 2017 study by Michael T.M. Wang found that humidifiers helped Dry Eye in people that spend a lot of time at a computer screen.[16] Therefore, humidifiers should make a positive difference to those suffering from dry eyes at night. This is a brilliant and cost-effective home remedy. 

A 2018 study about the right environment for optimum sleep found that a controlled humidity of between 40 and 60% is best.[17] Any higher than this can increase the risk of black mould in your bedroom, which releases mycotoxins which can impact night-time Dry Eye.[18]

For more tips on how to help your Dry Eye, visit our lifestyle blog.

 

Phone in bed

5. No phones before bed

The National Sleep Foundation recommends that you should stop using electronic devices, such as your phone, at least 30 minutes before you go to sleep.[19] This is because they give your brain too much stimulation to switch off, affecting your sleep.

In the same way, too much screen time can cause Computer Vision Syndrome, which can lead to Dry Eye and stinging eyes at night. This is because blinking helps cover the eyes with a tear film, but when we look at digital devices we blink less often.[20]

These two factors combined mean that phones should be avoided before bedtime to prevent night-time Dry Eye. For more information on Computer Vision Syndrome, visit our blog.

 

Glasses

6. Wear moisture chamber goggles

You may not have thought of wearing glasses in bed, but the right ones can actually help stop your eyes stinging at night. Wearing moisture chamber goggles or wrap-around glasses can help to reduce the evaporation of your tears.

Many people choose to wear soft moisture chamber goggles, as they are comfortable for a good night’s sleep. Just make sure that if you do use these, you sleep on your back to stop them pressing into your face.[21]

Contact-lens wearers should also make sure that they remove them before bed, to avoid making your eyes sting at night. This also allows your eyes to rehydrate before you shut them through the night.[22]

 

Woman cleaning face

7. Follow a skin-care routine

You should always remove your makeup before you go to bed, to avoid it going into your eyes in your sleep.[23]

You should also avoid makeup removers, moisturisers and skincare that include:

  • Alcohol
  • Parabens
  • Oil
  • Retinol
  • Phenoxyethanol
  • Acetyl hexapeptide-3
  • Benzalkonium chloride (BAK or BAC)
  • Butylene glycol, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)
  • Formaldehyde and formaldehyde donors
  • Isopropyl cloprostenate[24]

For this reason, it is a good idea to read the labels on your products before using them. For more tips on cosmetics for Dry Eyes, read our blog.

 

Candles

 8. Avoid scented candles

Although scented candles can be incredibly relaxing, they can also cause stinging and itchy eyes at night. This is because of chemicals often used in fragrance like acetone, Linalool and benzaldehyd. If you are looking to add ambience into your bedroom, you should opt for unscented beeswax candles with a cotton wick.[25]

For this reason, you should also avoid fragranced pillow mists and air fresheners that include these ingredients. In particular, pillow mists can rub directly into your eyes, causing stinging eyes at night.

 

Woman using washing machine

9. Wash your bedding regularly

Washing bedding is something that we all do – but did you know that it can help to soothe dry eyes at night? Washing your bedding can remove allergens like dust, pet hair and pollen, all of which can irritate your eyes.[12]

The National Sleep Foundation recommends that you wash your bedsheets at least once a week. You should do this even more often if you have a condition such as Dry Eye Syndrome.[26]

You should also choose your laundry detergent and softener wisely. These can make your eyes itchy and watery due to chemicals like ethanol, sodium silicate and bleach.[25] Therefore, you should look at the ingredients on these items before you wash your bedding with them.

 

Eye drops for Dry Eyes

10. Use eye drops before bed

Using night eye drops for dry eyes straight before you go to sleep protects your eyes from drying out whilst you rest. Dry Eye gel can also be helpful on a night, as they can often cause blurry vision when applied. Therefore, you can sleep while they work their magic.

VisuXL Gel eye drops provide 12-hour protection from Dry Eye symptoms, giving you a full night of sleep.[27] It’s a lubricating eye drop which turns into a gel when it hits the surface of your eye, maintaining residence time to provide lasting relief.[28]  

 

For more information about VisuXL Gel and other treatments to relieve Dry Eyes at night, visit the VISUfarma Website.


We hope that you have enjoyed this blog about Dry Eyes at night. To find out more about Dry Eye, join our community and follow our social channels.

 

In most cases, the best way to treat dry eyes, Also known as dry eye syndrome, is to use eye gel or eye drops.

VisuXL Gel® is a preservative-free smart gel lubricant for dry eye syndrome. It provides comfort in a bottle with it’s long-lasting lubrication properties giving 12-hour dosing with just one drop and is suitable for both day and night use.

VisuXL® is a preservative-free eye drop lubricant for dry eye syndrome. Due to its unique ingredients, VisuXL® will help you recover from eye surgery, an injury or persistent damaging dry eye.

VisuEvo® is a preservative-free eye drop that prevents excessive evaporation of the tear film. Its unique formula contains omega-3 essential fatty acids, Vitamins A and D and ultra-filtered phospholipids that facilitate tear film presentation and control evaporation.

All three products are contact lens-friendly and can be used for 180 days after opening.

Shop now

 

References

  1. Association of Optometrists, ‘Dry Eye Syndrome’. Accessed May 2022.
  2. NHS, ‘Dry Eyes’, Healthline, 01/04/2020. Accessed May 2022.
  3. Not a Dry Eye, ‘Causes’. Accessed May 2022.
  4. Latkany, Robert, Lock, Barbara, and Speaker, Mark, ‘Nocturnal lagophthalmos: an overview and classification’, The Ocular Surface, 2006 Jan;4(1):44-53. Accessed May 2022.
  5. Lazarus, Russell, ‘Burning Eyes at Night’ Optometrists Network, 06/02/21. Accessed May 2022.
  6. Leela Raju, ‘What Can Cause Your Eyes to Water When You’re Lying Down?’, Healthline. Accessed November 2022.
  7. Natalie Silver, HealthLine, ‘Why Do My Eyelids Feel Dry?’, 08/12/21. Accessed December 2022.
  8. Baumann A, Cochener B, [Meibomian gland dysfunction: a comparative study of modern treatments]. Journal francais d’ophtalmologie, 2014; 37(4): 303-12. Accessed May 2022.
  9. MeiboPatch® Instructions for Use (IFU). Accessed May 2022.
  10. Walsh, Neil. Fortes, Matthew. Raymond-Barker, Phillipa. et al, ‘Is Whole-Body Hydration an Important Consideration in Dry Eye’, IOVS, September 2012, Vol.53, 6622-6627. Accessed May 2022.
  11. Complete Eye Care, ‘How Does Hydration Affect My Eyes’, Accessed Sep 2021.
  12. Lovering, Cathy, ‘Why You Have Dry Eyes at Night and How to Soothe Them’, Healthline, 15/01/2021. Accessed August 2021.
  13. Naviblef ® Daily Care and Naviblef ® Intensive Care instructions for use (IFU). Accessed May 2022.
  14. Sharita Hanley, ‘What to Know About Eyewash Solutions’, WebMD, 09/11/22. Accessed November 2022.
  15. Katey Davidson, ‘Purified Water vs. Spring Water: Which Is Better?’, 23/08/21. Accessed November 2022.
  16. Michael T.M Wang et al, Randomized Trial of Desktop Humidifier for Dry Eye Relief in Computer Users. Optometry and Vision Science: November 2017 – Volume 94 – Issue 11 – p 1052-1057. Accessed November 2022.
  17. Zachary A. Caddick, Kevin Gregory, Lucia Arsintescu, Erin E. Flynn-Evans, ‘A review of the environmental parameters necessary for an optimal sleep environment, Building and Environment, Volume 132, 2018, Pages 11-20. Accessed November 2022.
  18. Charmley, Sarah, ‘Can humidifiers reduce dry eye symptoms?’, MedicalNewsToday, 30/01/2022. Accessed November 2022.
  19. SCL Health, ‘Why It’s Time to Ditch the Phone Before Bed’. Accessed November 2022.
  20. Wheeler, Regina Boyle. ‘Dry Eye and Screen Use’, WebMD, 21/06/21, Accessed April 2022.
  21. Not a Dry Eye, ‘Moisture Chamber Goggles’. Accessed November 2022.
  22. Lentiamo, ‘Can you sleep with contacts in?’. Accessed November 2022.
  23. HealthLine, ‘Eye Makeup and Dry Eyes: The Inside Scoop’, 07/09/21. Accessed October 2022.
  24. Wells, Jennifer, ‘Dry, Irritated Eyes? Avoid These Hidden Ingredients in Your Beauty and Skincare Products’, Midwest Eye Consultants, 30/10/20. Accessed November 2022.
  25. Laurier Optical Orleans Innes Eye Clinic, ‘These 10 Household Items Could Be Irritating Your Eyes’. Accessed November 2022.
  26. Noyed, Daniel, ‘How Often Should You Wash Your Sheets?’, Sleep Foundation, 11/03/22,
  27. Brancato R, Fiore T, Papucci L, et al, ‘Concomitant Effect of Topical Ubiquinone Q10 and Vitamin E to Prevent Keratocyte Apoptosis After Excimer Laser Photoablation in Rabbits’, J Refract Surg 2002; 18: 135-9. † In an animal model. Accessed May 2022.
  28. VisuXL Gel Instructions For Use (IFU). Accessed May 2022.

 

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Dry Eye and Mental Health

Dry Eye Disease impacts not only our physical health but also our mental health.[1] If you’re experiencing some of the negative mental effects of Dry Eye, you’re not alone. In this blog, we’ll be sharing how Dry Eye is linked to your mental health and some ways you can cope with this.

 

Can Dry Eyes be psychological?

There is strong evidence to suggest that Dry Eye Disease can have implications for mental health. A study by Marko Toth in the Journal of Health Psychology and Behavioural Medicine found that symptoms of Dry Eye can be associated with depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.[2]

There have been numerous other studies done to explore the effects of Dry Eye Disease on Mental Health. For example, a study in the BMJ Open has found that 47% of patients with Dry Eye Disease have mental health difficulties.[3] This is a very worrying statistic and our community is here to support you.

 

Two hands clasped together

 

How can Dry Eyes impact depressive feelings?

In a study by the European Journal of Ophthalmology, 40% of people with Dry Eye had depression.[1] The symptoms of Dry Eye, such as dry and itchy eyes, can have a negative impact on everyday life and make us feel isolated.

 

Can anxiety cause Dry Eye syndrome?

In the study by the European Journal of Ophthalmology, 39% of people suffered from anxiety.[1] Dry Eye Disease can cause us a lot of worry and unease, especially as it can make us feel so disorientated.

 

Woman with hot drink

 

How can I deal with Dry Eye and mental health?

There are a number of things you can do to help your mental health if you are suffering from Dry Eye Disease. Read below to find out more. 

 

Hand turning away wine

 

Drink less alcohol

Mental health problems and alcohol are closely linked because of how it affects our brain and body.[4] Drinking alcohol is also bad for Dry Eye as it increases the sugar levels in your blood. This causes your eyes to swell, meaning your vision can become blurry.[5] Therefore, drinking less can have a positive effect on both your physical and mental health. For more information on alcohol and Dry Eye, visit our blog.

 

Man and woman running

 

Make sure you exercise

The charity, Mind UK, argues that physical exercise can help with mental health issues.[6] If you exercise outdoors, it’s a good idea to wear a pair of wrap-around glasses, which can protect your eyes from windy conditions.[7]

 

Woman making salad

 

Eat healthily

Another strategy to help with your mental health is to eat healthily.[8] This also has benefits for Dry Eye Disease sufferers, as there are certain vitamins that are good for your eyes. For the full list of vitamins to take for Dry Eye, read this blog.

For more information on mental health, please visit the NHS website and consider a service such as Mind.

 

In most cases, the best way to treat dry eyes, Also known as dry eye syndrome, is to use eye gel or eye drops.

VisuXL Gel® is a preservative-free smart gel lubricant for dry eye syndrome. It provides comfort in a bottle with it’s long-lasting lubrication properties giving 12-hour dosing with just one drop and is suitable for both day and night use.

VisuXL® is a preservative-free eye drop lubricant for dry eye syndrome. Due to its unique ingredients, VisuXL® will help you recover from eye surgery, an injury or persistent damaging dry eye.

VisuEvo® is a preservative-free eye drop that prevents excessive evaporation of the tear film. Its unique formula contains omega-3 essential fatty acids, Vitamins A and D and ultra-filtered phospholipids that facilitate tear film presentation and control evaporation.

All three products are contact lens-friendly and can be used for 180 days after opening.

Shop now

 

References

  1. Denise Myshko. ‘Analysis Assesses Relationship Between Dry Eye Disease and Psychiatric Disorders’, Managed Healthcare Executive, 07/08/22. Accessed November 2022
  2. Marko Toth, Nataša Jokić-Begić. ‘Psychological contribution to understanding the nature of dry eye disease: a cross-sectional study of anxiety sensitivity and dry eyes’, Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine, 1(8) 202-119, 28/05/20. Accessed November 2022
  3. Parwez Hossain et al. ‘Patient-reported burden of dry eye disease in the UK: a cross-sectional web-based survey’, BMJ Open, BMJ Journals, 11 (3), 04/03/21. Accessed November 2022
  4. Mental Health Foundation, ‘Alcohol and mental health’, 16/02/22. Accessed November 2022.
  5. Ferrier & Mackinnon Optometrists, ‘Dry January, Not So Dry Eyes’. Accessed November 2022
  6. Mind, ‘Physical activity and your mental health’. Accessed November 2022.
  7. Nall, Rachel. ‘Treating (and Preventing) Dry Eyes in Winter’, Healthline, 30/09/20. Accessed November 2022.
  8. Sutter Health, ‘Eating Well for Mental Health’. Accessed November 2022.
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Menopause & Dry Eye: 5 Things You Need to Know

Women over the age of 50 are at a greater risk of experiencing Dry Eye Syndrome.[1] In fact, around 61% of perimenopausal and menopausal women are affected by Dry Eye Syndrome.[2] In this blog, we’ll be sharing everything you need to know about menopause and Dry Eye.

What are the symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome?


Dry Eye Syndrome is a chronic condition that can have many different causes.[3] It can be moderate to severe, and can flare up due to environmental conditions and lifestyle.[4]

Dry Eye symptoms include:

  • Itchy eyes
  • Sore eyes
  • Gritty eyes
  • Red eyes
  • Blurry vision
  • Sensitive to light
  • Eyes more watery than normal
  • Tears drying up (tear evaporation)
  • Decreased tear production. [5]

 

Woman with dry eye relaxing

 

Can menopause affect your Dry Eye?

Yes! Research published in the National Library of Medicine shows that there is a link between menopause and dry eyes due to women’s decreasing hormones. This can cause itchy, sore and dry eyes.[6]

 

Why are women over 50 more likely to suffer from chronic Dry Eye?

Menopause is when your periods stop because of the decrease in hormone levels, which usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55. Perimenopause is when you have symptoms before your periods stop. 

Menopause can cause symptoms such as:

  • Mood swings
  • Brain fog
  • Hot flushes [7]

Perimenopausal, Menopausal and Postmenopausal women are particularly prone to dry eyes, because sex hormones such as androgens affect tear production. Androgens are present in all genders, but females present lower levels, which then decrease after menopause.[6] This affects the balance of tear production, causing dry eyes.

 

Two women with dry eye on a sofa smiling

 

What does menopause do to your eyes?

Menopause and eye problems can often go hand in hand. Menopause can alter your eyesight and even the shape of your eyes! 


Dry Eye Disease is also more common after menopause, as well as cataracts. There is also a risk of glaucoma, which can come with age. [8]

 

Woman with dry eye smiling

 

Are dry eyes part of perimenopause?

If you have dry eyes and perimenopause, you’re not alone! Dry eyes can be linked to perimenopause, due to changing hormonal balances. Often unspoken of, Laurie G. Barber, Doctor of Medicine, said that perimenopause and Dry Eye should have more awareness and attention. [9]

 

Does low oestrogen cause Dry Eye?

When women go through menopause, the body makes less oestrogen, progesterone and androgen. This can in turn cause Dry Eye Disease. [1]

Your doctor might recommend hormone therapy to restore your oestrogen levels. However, one large study found that long-term hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) can put you more at risk of Dry Eye and make symptoms worse. [10]

 

Woman with dry eye on laptop

 

What other things can make Dry Eye worse?

Dry Eye Syndrome can have many different causes. When they overlap with each other, patients can experience painful flare-ups. Here are some of the factors other than menopause that can trigger Dry Eye symptoms: 

 

Dry Eyes at night

Night time Dry Eye affects many people, as your body’s metabolism slows at night, so fewer tears are produced. [11]

For people that already suffer from chronic dry eyes, this can result in irritating symptoms during the night because they already deal with problems to do with the quality and quantity of tear production.

 

Computer Vision Syndrome 

Staring at screens reduces our blink rate, causing our eyes to dry out.[12] Chronically dry, itchy eyes are one of the key symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome, which between 50-90% of people who work at a computer screen can suffer from. [13]

 

Does Dry Eye Disease improve after menopause?

Dry Eye symptoms can be improved through different changes and choices we make. Here are our top tips for dealing with dry eyes during menopause:

 

Woman with dry eye drinking water

 

1. Eat well and stay hydrated

Drink lots of fluids to properly hydrate your body and eat a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin A to encourage healthy tear production and prevent Dry Eye.[14] Experts suggest that you should drink between 8 and 10 glasses of water a day, if you have Dry Eye Disease.[15] Discover more about what vitamins are best for Dry Eye here: 6 Vitamins to Boost Eye Health

 

Humidifier for dry eyes

 

2. Use a humidifier to prevent dry eyes.

Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which can help people who suffer from Dry Eyes.[16] These can often be bought at a low cost, making them an easy solution to bring into your home or office space. For more information on lifestyle changes that you can make, visit our blog: 6 Lifestyle Tips to Help Dry Eye

 

Woman with dry eye rejects drink

 

3. Cut down on smoking and drinking.

Do not smoke or drink too much alcohol as this can profoundly affect your Dry Eye symptoms. This is because smoking can change the composition of your tears over time and alcohol dehydrates your eyes.[17][18]

Our blog about alcohol and Dry Eye is a great resource: Is Drinking Alcohol Bad For Your Eyes?

You can also read more about the effects of smoking on Dry Eye here: Smoking and Dry Eye

 

Woman with dry eye on phone

 

4. Take regular breaks from staring at screens

Taking regular breaks to rest your eyes from digital screens can prevent Computer Vision Syndrome. One technique that can help is the 20/20/20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.[19] To find out more about Computer Vision Syndrome, read our blog: What is Computer Vision Syndrome?

 

Woman using eye drops for dry eyes

 

5. Follow a three-step treatment plan

A three-step treatment plan is a great way to effectively manage your Dry Eye.

 

Step 1: If you are suffering from Evaporative Dry Eye, or Meibomian Gland Disorder, use a heated compress, such as Meibopatch®, to unblock your meibomian glands and relieve your eyes.[20]

 

Step 2: Cleanse and wipe away the melted oil blocking your glands, as well as any built-up debris with a cleanser like Naviblef ®, which is specially designed to reduce discomfort.[21]

 

Step 3: Incorporate an effective lubricant such as any drop from the VISUFamily range. Depending on your condition, you can choose an eye drop that will help ease your symptoms.

 

Best eye drops for menopause and Dry Eye

Don’t let Dry Eye and menopause hold you back! Eye drops are a great solution for fast and effective Dry Eye relief. Drops, tears, gels and ointments should all be considered to help.

 

We offer a range of eye care solutions including our VisuEvo® eye drops. These drops include vitamins such as Vitamin A, which can help to reduce the effects of Dry Eye. You can browse these drops here: VisuEvo® Eye Drops

In most cases, the best way to treat dry eyes, Also known as dry eye syndrome, is to use eye gel or eye drops.

VisuXL Gel® is a preservative-free smart gel lubricant for dry eye syndrome. It provides comfort in a bottle with it’s long-lasting lubrication properties giving 12-hour dosing with just one drop and is suitable for both day and night use.

VisuXL® is a preservative-free eye drop lubricant for dry eye syndrome. Due to its unique ingredients, VisuXL® will help you recover from eye surgery, an injury or persistent damaging dry eye.

VisuEvo® is a preservative-free eye drop that prevents excessive evaporation of the tear film. Its unique formula contains omega-3 essential fatty acids, Vitamins A and D and ultra-filtered phospholipids that facilitate tear film presentation and control evaporation.

All three products are contact lens-friendly and can be used for 180 days after opening.

Shop now

References

  1. Wilson, Debra Rose, ‘Menopause and Dry Eyes: What’s the link?’, Healthline, 01/04/2020. Accessed April 2022.
  2. Dry Eye Center of NY & NJ, ‘What’s the Link Between Dry Eye and Menopause?’, 08/04/21. Accessed January 2023.
  3. Mayo Clinic, ‘Dry Eyes. Accessed April 2022.
  4. Monica Alves, Priscila Novaes, Monica de Andrade Morraye, Peter Sol Reinach, Eduardo Melani Rocha, ‘Is Dry Eye an Environmental Disease?’, Arq Bras Oftalmol, May-Jun 2014;77(3):193-200. Accessed April 2022.
  5. NHS, ‘Dry eyes’. Accessed April 2022.
  6. Peck, Travis, Olsakovsky, Leslie, Aggarwal Shruti, ‘Dry Eye Syndrome in Menopause and Perimenopausal Age Group’, J Midlife Health, 2017 Apr-Jun; 8(2): 51–54. Accessed April 2022.
  7. NHS, ‘Menopause’. Accessed January 2023.
  8. The North American Menopause Society, ‘Menopause and Eye Health’. Accessed January 2023.
  9. Altersitz, Katrina. ‘Premenopausal women need extra dry eye care’, Ocular Surgery News, Healio, 15/12/06. Accessed January 2023.
  10. AlAwlaqi, A. MBBS, MSc; Hammadeh, M. PhD. ‘Examining the relationship between hormone therapy and dry-eye syndrome in postmenopausal women: a cross-sectional comparison study’, Menopause, 23(5):550-555, 05/16. Accessed February 2022.
  11. Lazarus, Russell. ‘Burning Eyes at Night’, Optometrists Network, 06/02/21. Accessed April 2022.
  12. Wheeler, Regina Boyle. ‘Dry Eye and Screen Use’, WebMD, 21/06/21. Accessed April 2022.
  13. Watson, Stephanie, ‘What is Computer Vision Syndrome?’, WebMD, 29/11/21. Accessed April 2022.
  14. BergFeinfield Vision Correction, ‘6 Foods to Eat to Help Dry Eye’, 27/02/20. Accessed April 2022.
  15. Complete Eye Care, ‘How Does Hydration Affect My Eyes?’. Accessed January 2023.
  16. Wang, M. Chan, E. Ea, L. ‘Randomized Trial of Desktop Humidifier for Dry Eye Relief in Computer Users’, Optometry and Vision Science: November 2017 – Volume 94 – Issue 11 – p 1052-1057. Accessed April 2022.
  17. Griffin, Morgan. ‘Smoking and Dry Eye’, WebMD, 05/05/21. Accessed April 2022.
  18. You, Young-Sheng, Qu, Nai-Bin, Yu, Xiao-Ning, ‘Alcohol consumption and dry eye syndrome: a Meta-analysis’, International Journey of Opthamology, 2016; 9(10): 1487–1492. Accessed December 2021.
  19. Marcin, Ashley. ‘How Does the 20-20-20 Rule Prevent Eye Strain?’, Healthline, 03/02/17. Accessed April 2022.
  20. Meibopatch® Instructions for Use (IFU). Accessed April 2022.
  21. Naviblef ® Instructions for Use (IFU). Accessed April 2022.

 

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Can You Wear Makeup When You Have Dry Eye?

You can absolutely wear makeup when you suffer with Dry Eye. Dry Eye Disease shouldn’t stop you doing the things that you love. If you do wish to wear makeup, we can help you work around your condition with some handy tips and tricks.

Eye makeup can clog the meibomian glands in your eyelids, aggravating your Dry Eye symptoms. But, using the right makeup for Dry Eye can make a huge difference when done correctly.[1]

 

Eyeshadow for Dry Eyes

The tiny particles in glitter and powdery eyeshadows can easily get into your eyes, which can cause aggravation. Instead, you should use a cream based eyeshadow.[2]

 

Eyeliner for Dry Eyes

It is suggested that you shouldn’t use eyeliner if you suffer from Dry Eyes as it can irritate your eyelids and harm the production of tears. However, if eyeliner is a must in your makeup bag, it’s better to apply it on the outside of your lash line, instead of the inside. This prevents the makeup particles from making their way into the tear film and harming your eyes.[3] You should also sharpen your eyeliner before every use for this reason.[4]

 

eyeliner and dry eye

 

Mascara for Dry Eyes
Did you know all eye makeup should be discarded after 3 months? Old mascara can go crumbly, allowing big clumps to fall off into your eyes. It’s also best to use thickening mascara, as it flakes much less than the standard bottle.[4]

Ideally, it would be better not to use mascara at all. Instead, use an eyelash curler, which can be bought cheaply at your local supermarket. Plastic curlers are better than metal as the metal ones can cause irritation around your eye.[2]

 

Foundation and Highlighter

Although foundation and highlighters aren’t necessarily eye makeup items, the glitter and powder from these can find their way to your eyes when you apply them. As with eyeshadow, use a thicker cream based version.[2]

 

Permanent makeup for Dry Eye

When it comes to eyelashes, natural is the best option! Eyelash extensions and fake eyelashes should be completely avoided, as these can aggravate blepharitis. Many eyelash tubes of glue also contain formaldehyde, which can dry out the surface of your eyes.[4]

 

dry eye eyelashes

 

Wash your makeup brushes

Makeup brushes can hold dirt, oil and bacteria that can get into the eyes. So, it’s important that they’re washed regularly.[5] It’s recommended to wash your brushes every seven to 10 days, but there is no harm in cleaning them more often.[6]

 

Taking off your makeup with Dry Eye

You should always take your makeup off before you go to bed, to avoid it leaking into your eyes in your sleep or rubbing it in. You should also steer clear of makeup removers that include oil or parabens as these can be irritating.[4]

 

We hope that we have enlightened you with our makeup tips. To find out more about Dry Eye, follow our social channels.

 

In most cases, the best way to treat dry eyes, Also known as dry eye syndrome, is to use eye gel or eye drops.

VisuXL Gel® is a preservative-free smart gel lubricant for dry eye syndrome. It provides comfort in a bottle with it’s long-lasting lubrication properties giving 12-hour dosing with just one drop and is suitable for both day and night use.

VisuXL® is a preservative-free eye drop lubricant for dry eye syndrome. Due to its unique ingredients, VisuXL® will help you recover from eye surgery, an injury or persistent damaging dry eye.

VisuEvo® is a preservative-free eye drop that prevents excessive evaporation of the tear film. Its unique formula contains omega-3 essential fatty acids, Vitamins A and D and ultra-filtered phospholipids that facilitate tear film presentation and control evaporation.

All three products are contact lens-friendly and can be used for 180 days after opening.

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References

  1. Holliman, Nicole. ‘Makeup Tips for Dry Eye’, Web MD, 08/07/20, Accessed October 2022
  2. Petrosyan, Tamara. ‘Impact of Makeup on Dry Eye Disease’, EyeCare.Org, 11/01/16, Accessed October 2022
  3. Alison, Ng et al. ‘Migration of Cosmetic Products into the Tear Film’, Eye and Contact Lens Science and Clinical Practice, 09/15, 41:5, pp.304-309, Accessed October 2022
  4. HealthLine, ‘Eye Makeup and Dry Eyes: The Inside Scoop’, 07/09/21, Accessed October 2022.
  5. Miller, Korin. ‘How to Clean Your Makeup Brushes – and Why You Need to Do It’, Health, 18/05/21, Accessed October 2022.
  6. American Academy of Dermatology Association, ‘How to Clean Your Makeup Brushes’, Accessed October 2022
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