Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 25, 2025
Comparing Objective Conjunctival Hyperemia Grading and the Ocular Surface Disease Index Score in Dry Eye Syndrome During COVID-19
Published on: May 25, 2022
Eye Make-up Products and Dry Eye Disease: A Mini Review
Mazyar Yazdani1,2,3, Katja Benedikte Prestø Elgstøen1, Tor Paaske Utheim2,3,4,5,6,7
1Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway.
Abstract:
Dry eye disease (DED), a multifactorial condition of the tear film and ocular surface, is one of the leading reasons for patients seeking eye care. Despite the multiple toxic ingredients of eye make-up products and their long-term application close to the ocular surface, few studies have analyzed their role in initiating and worsening DED. Females and the elderly experience the highest prevalence of DED and may be particularly vulnerable to the effects of eye make-up. The multifactorial nature of DED and common mechanisms behind several ocular surface diseases make it difficult to link a particular ingredient-driven mechanism to DED. Therefore, here, we list potential responses to eye cosmetics that may be involved in DED development. The first part of this review introduces the anatomy of the eye and DED, the second section explains the classification of eye cosmetic products, and the final part discusses the undesired effects under physical, pathogenic, and chemical insults.
Insights
Eye make-up may worsen dry eye disease (DED), a common eye condition. This review explores how cosmetic ingredients can impact ocular surface health and contribute to DED development.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Toxicology
- Cosmetic Science
Background:
- Dry eye disease (DED) is a prevalent ocular surface condition affecting many patients seeking eye care.
- Eye make-up products contain potentially toxic ingredients applied near the ocular surface.
- The role of eye make-up in DED initiation and exacerbation is understudied, particularly in vulnerable populations like females and the elderly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential impact of eye cosmetic ingredients on dry eye disease (DED).
- To discuss the classification of eye cosmetic products.
- To explore the adverse effects of eye cosmetics on the ocular surface.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of eye anatomy, DED pathophysiology, and ocular surface diseases.
- Classification of common eye cosmetic products.
- Analysis of potential adverse effects from physical, pathogenic, and chemical insults of cosmetic ingredients.
Main Results:
- Eye make-up ingredients can cause physical, pathogenic, and chemical insults to the ocular surface.
- Specific cosmetic components may contribute to the multifactorial nature of DED.
- Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for managing DED in cosmetic users.
Conclusions:
- Eye make-up use is a potential contributing factor to dry eye disease (DED).
- Further research is needed to elucidate specific ingredient-driven mechanisms in DED.
- Awareness of cosmetic-related risks can aid in patient counseling and management of ocular surface conditions.
