What is mascara made of?
Mascara is a cosmetic product used to enhance the appearance of eyelashes, mainly by making them thicker, longer, and darker. The main ingredients in mascara are pigments, oils, and waxes. These ingredients can vary depending on the brand and type of mascara.
One of the most common ingredients in mascara is carbon black, a pigment that gives the mascara its dark color. Oils, such as mineral oil or castor oil, help make the mascara smooth and easy to apply. Waxes, such as beeswax or paraffin wax, help the mascara stick to your eyelashes and stay in place.
How can mascara cause eye infections?
Mascara can cause eye infections if it is contaminated with bacteria. Bacteria can grow inside the mascara tube over time, especially if it is not stored properly or if the applicator is not cleaned regularly. When you apply mascara to your eyelashes, the bacteria can transfer to your eyes, leading to infection.
Some of the symptoms of an eye infection caused by mascara are redness, itchiness, and irritation of the eye. In severe cases, the infection can cause swelling, pain, and vision problems. If you experience any of these symptoms after using mascara, it’s important to see a doctor or ophthalmologist immediately.
How to prevent mascara-related eye infections?
There are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of getting an eye infection from mascara:
- Buy mascara from a reputable brand or store.
- Don’t share your mascara with anyone else.
- Replace your mascara every three to six months, or sooner if it starts to dry out or smell funny.
- Store your mascara in a cool, dry place and make sure the cap is on tightly.
- Clean your mascara applicator regularly with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.
What to do if you suspect your mascara is causing an eye infection?
If you suspect that your mascara is causing an eye infection, stop using it immediately. Clean your eyes with warm water and a mild soap. Avoid wearing eye makeup until the infection has cleared up. If the infection does not improve after a few days, see a doctor or ophthalmologist.
It’s also a good idea to throw away any makeup you were using when you developed the infection. This includes mascara, eyeliner, and eye shadow.
Mascara is a popular cosmetic product used to enhance the appearance of eyelashes. While it can make your lashes look longer and fuller, mascara can also cause eye infections if it is contaminated with bacteria. To reduce the risk of getting an eye infection from mascara, buy it from a reputable brand or store, don’t share it with anyone else, and replace it regularly. If you suspect that your mascara is causing an eye infection, stop using it immediately and see a doctor or ophthalmologist if the infection does not improve after a few days.
