Optometrists are warning against wearing waterproof mascara to bed due to potential side effects. Dr. Gurleen Dhanoa, known for her eye care tips on social media, revealed a shocking side effect of leaving waterproof mascara on overnight. She challenged viewers to flip their eyelids if they sleep in waterproof mascara, hinting at a possible gross outcome. A photo she shared of the inside of a woman’s eyelid showed what appeared to be mold or specks of mascara, prompting concerns about the dangers of this practice.
Dr. Dhanoa recommended switching to water-resistant mascara instead of waterproof mascara to avoid potential eye issues. She did not specify the reaction that could occur but shared a photo that seemed to be from a previous issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. The photo was of a 50-year-old woman who developed a serious eye condition after years of using heavy mascara with inadequate removal before bedtime, leading to embedded hard deposits under her eyelids and consequent infections.
The mentioned woman in the study experienced follicular conjunctivitis, an infection in the mucus membrane covering the eye and eyelid. The condition was attributed to years of using mascara without proper removal, with some deposits scratching her eyeballs. The lack of clarity on the type of mascara used indicates that any form of mascara can potentially cause these issues, but waterproof mascara may worsen the condition due to its difficulty in removal. Optometrists are warning about the risks associated with not properly caring for our eyelashes and eyes, emphasizing the need for clean and nourished hair follicles to protect the eyes.
Dr. Rebecca Taylor, a clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, also highlighted the importance of removing all eye makeup before bed to prevent bacterial and viral infections, including pink eye. She emphasized the role of eyelashes in protecting the eyes and the risks posed by blocked oil glands or follicles due to clogged mascara residue. Experts caution that failing to properly clean the eyes and lashes before sleeping can have serious consequences, leading to infections and other eye conditions that could compromise eye health in the long term.
The potential dangers of sleeping in waterproof mascara are concerning for eye health, as highlighted by the reported case of the Australian woman who suffered from serious eye conditions due to years of mascara use without adequate removal. Optometrists recommend switching to water-resistant mascara as a safer alternative and stress the importance of removing all eye makeup before bedtime to avoid complications. Dr. Dhanoa’s eye care tips on social media have sparked awareness about the risks associated with neglecting proper eye care practices, urging viewers to prioritize the health of their eyes and lashes to prevent potential eye issues in the future.
