Makeup Tips for Sensitive Skin and Dry Eyes

Master Makeup Techniques While Prioritizing Eye Health for Dry Eyes

In today's vibrant beauty landscape, many women encounter a crucial challenge: the quest for an exquisite look while ensuring their eye health remains uncompromised. As we refine our skills in techniques such as crafting the perfect winged eyeliner, applying volumizing mascara, and achieving that alluring smoky eye effect, a growing number of individuals face an unexpected obstacle—dry eye syndrome.
This condition arises when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears are of inadequate quality, prompting many to rethink their makeup strategies. The discomfort and irritation caused by this syndrome can lead some to abandon makeup altogether, which is particularly disheartening for those who wish to showcase their creativity through cosmetics.

Unveiling ÈYES ARE THE STORY: The Intersection of Science and Beauty

Leading the charge in this pioneering movement is ÈYES ARE THE STORY, an innovative brand that effortlessly merges scientific research with cutting-edge beauty formulations. The inspiring journey of founder Amy Gallant Sullivan not only highlights her deep dedication to eye health but also underscores her family's significant contributions to advancing this field.
Amy's upbringing in a family of healthcare professionals ignited her early fascination with the complexities of ocular science. Her father, David A. Sullivan, served as an Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School, while her brother, Benjamin D. Sullivan, played a crucial role in establishing TearLab, now recognized as ScoutPro under Trukera Medical.

In addition, her mother, Rose, an intensive care nurse, provides invaluable insights into conditions such as dry eye disease (DED) and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
Growing up surrounded by discussions about eye health naturally heightened her awareness of ocular surface disease (OSD) and its extensive implications. It was during her active participation with the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) that Amy recognized the urgent need for consumer products that prioritize eye safety and well-being.

Understanding the Gender Disparity in Dry Eye Disease: A Closer Look

A transformative moment in Amy’s career emerged when she discovered that dry eye disease predominantly affects women, manifesting almost twice as frequently as in men. This revelation ignited a crucial inquiry: Which activities are more prevalent among women compared to men?
The answer is clear—cosmetic usage. Studies indicate that women typically use around 12 beauty products daily, in contrast to men, who usually apply about six.

As Amy pursued her research further, she unearthed startling facts about the ingredients commonly found in cosmetics.
For instance, benzalkonium chloride (BAK), a preservative frequently used in glaucoma treatments, also appears in numerous cosmetic formulations, including eye makeup.
Even more alarming is the fact that the allowable concentration of BAK in cosmetics can be thousands of times higher than that found in glaucoma medications, raising substantial concerns regarding the safety of these products for individuals with sensitive eye health.

This eye-opening discovery propelled Amy into an extensive two-decade research journey to investigate the connections between cosmetics and dry eyes. Her unwavering commitment culminated in the establishment of ÈYES ARE THE STORY—a groundbreaking line of cosmetics and skincare specifically crafted for those with sensitive eyes. Amy coined the term “optocosmetics” to signify this revolutionary blend of beauty and pharmaceutical science that centers on eye safety.

Recognizing Dry Eye Syndrome: Symptoms and Root Causes

What exactly is dry eye syndrome, and why is its prevalence on the rise?
This syndrome occurs when the eyes do not produce a sufficient amount of quality tears for proper lubrication or struggle to maintain tears on the surface.
This condition can present through a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• Stinging or burning sensations in the eyes
• A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes
• Redness and irritation
• Blurred vision
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Difficulty in comfortably wearing contact lenses

Investigating the Complex Relationship Between Cosmetics and Dry Eyes

The connection between makeup and dry eyes is intricate and multifaceted. Those shimmering eyeshadows we adore? The minuscule particles can infiltrate the tear film, leading to irritation and discomfort.
As for the mascara that enhances our lashes? It may harbor bacteria that exacerbate eye discomfort. Furthermore, the application and removal processes of eye makeup can disrupt the delicate tear film, which is essential for maintaining eye health and moisture.

Understanding Why Women Are More Susceptible to Dry Eyes

Women are at a heightened risk of developing dry eyes due to various contributing factors. Hormonal fluctuations throughout their lives, particularly during menopause, can significantly impact tear production.
Moreover, the prevalence of autoimmune disorders such as Sjögren’s syndrome is markedly higher among women, intensifying the issue. Most notably, the frequent application of eye makeup and the rising trend of using false lashes can disrupt the critical balance required for sustaining optimal eye health.