Makeup Tips for Sensitive Skin and Dry Eyes

Master the Art of Makeup While Prioritizing Eye Health

In the vibrant and ever-evolving world of beauty, countless women encounter a crucial obstacle: achieving their desired makeup look without compromising their eye health. As we hone our skills in trendy techniques like applying winged eyeliner, volumizing mascara, and achieving the perfect smoky eye, many individuals are facing an unexpected challenge—dry eye syndrome.
This condition arises when the eyes struggle with insufficient tear production or when the tears produced are of subpar quality. The discomfort and irritation associated with dry eyes can deter many from wearing makeup altogether, particularly concerning for those passionate about expressing their creativity through the art of cosmetics.

Unveiling ÈYES ARE THE STORY: Where Science Meets Beauty Innovation

Leading this revolutionary movement is ÈYES ARE THE STORY, an innovative brand that expertly blends scientific research with cutting-edge beauty formulations. The inspiring journey of founder Amy Gallant Sullivan not only reflects her deep dedication to eye health but also highlights her family’s essential contributions to this critical field.
Amy was raised in a home surrounded by healthcare experts, nurturing 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 key role in establishing TearLab, now recognized as ScoutPro under Trukera Medical.

Moreover, her mother, Rose, an intensive care nurse, provides invaluable insights into conditions like dry eye disease (DED) and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
Growing up amidst conversations about eye health naturally heightened her sensitivity to the challenges posed by ocular surface disease (OSD) and its wider ramifications. It was during her active engagement with the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) that Amy recognized the urgent need for consumer products that prioritize safety for the eyes.

Unpacking the Gender Gap in Dry Eye Disease: Why Women Are More Affected

A pivotal discovery in Amy’s career was the revelation that dry eye disease occurs almost twice as often in women compared to men. This insight ignited a critical exploration: What activities are predominantly associated with women rather than men?
The answer is clear—cosmetic usage. Studies indicate that women typically use around 12 beauty products daily, while men average about six.

As Amy dove deeper into her research, she uncovered startling facts regarding the common ingredients found in cosmetics.
For instance, benzalkonium chloride (BAK), a preservative often present in glaucoma treatments, is also prevalent in many cosmetic products, including eye makeup.
More alarmingly, the allowable concentration of BAK in cosmetics can be thousands of times higher than that in glaucoma medications, raising significant concerns about the safety of these products for individuals with sensitive eyes.

This shocking discovery propelled Amy into an intensive two-decade research endeavor to investigate the links between cosmetics and dry eyes. Her relentless passion culminated in the establishment of ÈYES ARE THE STORY—a groundbreaking line of cosmetics and skincare specifically tailored for individuals with sensitive eyes. Amy coined the term “optocosmetics” to encapsulate this innovative blend of beauty and pharmaceutical science that emphasizes eye safety above all.

Recognizing Dry Eye Syndrome: Essential Symptoms and Causes Unveiled

What exactly is dry eye syndrome, and why is its prevalence on the rise?
This syndrome arises when the eyes do not produce enough quality tears for sufficient lubrication or when they struggle to maintain tears on the surface of the eye.
Common symptoms of this condition include:

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

Delving into the Complex Relationship Between Cosmetics and Dry Eye Issues

The connection between makeup and dry eye syndrome is intricate and multifaceted. Those dazzling eyeshadows that we adore? The fine particles can penetrate the tear film, triggering irritation and discomfort.
As for the mascara that beautifully enhances our lashes? It may harbor bacteria that exacerbate eye discomfort. Moreover, both the application and removal processes of eye makeup can disturb the fragile tear film, which is essential for maintaining optimal eye health and moisture.

Understanding Why Women Are More Susceptible to Dry Eye Syndrome

Women are at a heightened risk of developing dry eye syndrome due to several contributing factors. Hormonal fluctuations throughout their lives, particularly during menopause, can drastically impact tear production.
Furthermore, the prevalence of autoimmune disorders like Sjögren’s syndrome is significantly higher in women, worsening the situation. Most critically, the frequent application of eye makeup and the rising trend of using false lashes can disrupt the delicate balance necessary for maintaining optimal eye health.