Contact Lenses and Makeup: What Should You Do First? A Complete Guide

Key Takeaways

• Always insert contact lenses before applying makeup to prevent makeup residue from contaminating your lenses

• Remove contact lenses before removing makeup to avoid getting makeup remover or makeup particles in your eyes

• Choose eye-friendly, hypoallergenic makeup products when wearing contact lenses

• Special makeup techniques can enhance the appearance of colored contact lenses

• Proper hygiene is essential for safely combining contact lenses and makeup

Are you one of the many people who enjoy wearing both contact lenses and makeup? If so, you've probably wondered about the correct order—should you put in your contacts before applying makeup, or should makeup come first? This common question has a definitive answer backed by eye care professionals, and following the correct sequence can make a significant difference in your eye comfort, lens longevity, and overall eye health.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the right order for applying contact lenses and makeup, explain why this order matters, and provide expert tips for safely enhancing your eyes while protecting your vision. Whether you're new to wearing colored contact lenses or a seasoned contact lens wearer looking to refine your beauty routine, this article will help you create a safe and effective regimen.

The Correct Order: Lenses First, Then Makeup

Let's address the main question right away: you should always insert your contact lenses before applying makeup. This is the unanimous recommendation from optometrists, ophthalmologists, and contact lens manufacturers worldwide.

Here's why this order is essential:

1. Clean insertion: Putting in your lenses first ensures they're being placed on eyes free from makeup residue, oils, and cosmetic particles

2. Better visibility: It's easier to see what you're doing when inserting contacts without makeup interfering with your vision

3. Reduced contamination risk: Makeup on your fingers can transfer to lenses during insertion

4. Less irritation: Makeup applied after lens insertion is less likely to get trapped between the lens and your eye

Similarly, at the end of the day, you should remove your contact lenses before removing your makeup. This protective sequence ensures that makeup remover products don't come into contact with your lenses, which could cause irritation and potentially damage the lens material.

Why This Order Matters: Safety and Comfort Considerations

The sequence of applying contact lenses and makeup isn't just about convenience—it has significant implications for your eye health, comfort, and the longevity of your lenses.

Eye Health Benefits

When you insert contact lenses into eyes that already have makeup on them, several problems can occur:

• Trapped particles: Makeup particles can become trapped between your lens and cornea, causing irritation, redness, and discomfort

• Bacterial contamination: Cosmetics can harbor bacteria, which may lead to eye infections when transferred to lenses

• Corneal abrasions: Makeup particles under a lens can potentially scratch your cornea

• Blocked oxygen flow: Makeup residue on lenses can create a barrier that reduces oxygen permeability

Lens Performance and Longevity

The correct application order also affects how well your lenses perform and how long they last:

• Clearer vision: Lenses free from makeup residue provide better visual clarity

• Less protein buildup: Clean lenses are less likely to develop protein deposits

• Extended lens life: Preventing cosmetic contamination helps non-daily lenses last their full intended lifespan

• Reduced replacement costs: Properly maintained lenses don't need to be replaced prematurely

Makeup Application Benefits

Applying makeup after inserting your contacts has advantages for your beauty routine too:

• More precise application: With vision fully corrected by your contacts, you can see better to apply makeup precisely

• Reduced lens fogging: Makeup application sometimes creates particles in the air that can fog up glasses but won't affect contacts

• Freedom to blink: You can blink normally during makeup application without worrying about dislodging your lenses

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Makeup with Contact Lenses

Follow this detailed routine for the safest and most effective way to wear makeup with contact lenses:

Morning Routine: Insertion and Makeup Application

1. Begin with clean hands

• Wash hands thoroughly with fragrance-free soap

• Dry completely with a lint-free towel

2. Insert contact lenses

• Follow proper lens insertion technique

• Allow a few minutes for lenses to settle and become comfortable

3. Apply face makeup

• Start with face primer, foundation, and concealer

• Apply these products carefully, avoiding the eye area

• Set with powder if desired, being careful not to create excess powder dust

4. Apply eye makeup carefully

• Begin with eye primer to help products stay in place

• Apply eyeshadow carefully, tapping off excess product before application

• When applying eyeliner, stay away from the waterline if possible

• Apply mascara last, with a careful, controlled technique

5. Finish your look

• Complete your makeup with blush, highlighter, and lip products

• Use setting spray if desired, closing eyes completely during application

Evening Routine: Safe Removal

1. Remove contact lenses first

• Wash hands thoroughly before touching lenses

• Remove lenses using proper technique

• Store or dispose of lenses appropriately

2. Remove eye makeup

• Use gentle, oil-free makeup remover

• Avoid rubbing eyes aggressively

• Pay special attention to removing all mascara and eyeliner

3. Complete skincare routine

• Finish with your normal cleansing and skincare routine

• Consider using a dedicated eye cream to nourish the delicate eye area

Best Makeup Products for Contact Lens Wearers

Not all makeup products are created equal when it comes to compatibility with contact lenses. Here are recommendations for contact lens-friendly cosmetics:

Eye-Friendly Makeup Characteristics

Look for products that are:

• Hypoallergenic: Less likely to cause allergic reactions

• Ophthalmologist-tested: Specifically tested for eye safety

• Fragrance-free: Reduced risk of irritation

• Oil-free: Less likely to cloud lenses or cause film buildup

• Non-flaking: Minimizes particles that could get in your eyes

• Water-resistant (not waterproof): Easier to remove without harsh cleansers

Recommended Makeup Types

Eyeshadow

• Cream eyeshadows: Less fallout than powder formulas

• Pressed powder shadows: Better than loose pigments

• Matte formulas: Generally create less fallout than glittery products

Eyeliner

• Gel or cream pencil liners: Less likely to flake than liquid or kohl

• Smudge-proof formulas: Stay in place throughout the day

• Markers or pen-style liners: Offer precision with minimal excess product

Mascara

• Tubing mascara: Forms tubes around lashes that remove easily with warm water

• Fiber-free formulas: No loose fibers that might fall into eyes

• Washable formulas: Easier to remove than waterproof versions

Products to Avoid

When wearing contact lenses, steer clear of:

• Loose powder eyeshadows with excessive fallout

• Glitter products or shadows with chunky shimmer particles

• Fiber-extending mascaras that can shed fibers into your eyes

• Waterproof mascara that requires harsh removers

• Liquid eyeliner that can flake after drying

• Eyeliners designed for the waterline (tightlining)

• Lash growth serums unless specifically approved for contact lens wearers

Makeup Techniques to Enhance Your Colored Contact Lenses

If you're wearing colored contact lenses from Bella Lenses, you'll want to use makeup techniques that complement and enhance their effect:

Color Coordination

• Blue lenses: Pair with copper, bronze, or warm brown eyeshadows to create contrast

• Green lenses: Enhance with purple, mauve, or rose gold tones

• Brown lenses: Complement with green, blue, or purple shades

• Gray lenses: Work well with silver, charcoal, or lavender eyeshadows

• Violet lenses: Pair beautifully with gold, champagne, or warm neutral tones

Application Techniques

1. Define the lash line

• Use a dark liner close to the lash line to create definition

• Smudge slightly for a softer look that draws attention to the colored lens

2. Create depth with eyeshadow

• Apply medium-toned shadow in the crease

• Use lighter shades on the lid to brighten and make colored lenses pop

• Blend thoroughly for a professional finish

3. Highlight strategically

• Add a touch of highlight to the inner corner of the eye

• Apply a small amount under the brow bone

• These highlights create light reflection that enhances colored lenses

4. Mascara application

• Curl lashes before applying mascara

• Apply mascara to upper lashes, focusing on the roots

• Use a light hand on lower lashes to avoid overwhelming the look

Tips for Removing Makeup When Wearing Contact Lenses

Proper makeup removal is just as important as application when you're a contact lens wearer:

Best Practices

1. Always remove contacts first

• Take out your contact lenses with clean hands before tackling makeup

• Store or dispose of lenses properly according to your lens type

2. Choose gentle removers

• Use oil-free makeup removers designed for sensitive eyes

• Micellar water works well for many contact lens wearers

• Avoid oil-based removers that can leave residue on your eyelids

3. Use proper technique

• Soak a cotton pad in remover

• Press gently against the eye for 10-15 seconds to dissolve makeup

• Wipe gently outward, never rubbing vigorously

• Use a fresh cotton pad for each eye to prevent cross-contamination

4. Be thorough

• Take your time ensuring all makeup is removed

• Pay special attention to mascara, which can be stubborn

• Follow with your regular cleanser to remove any remaining residue

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced contact lens wearers make these common mistakes when it comes to makeup application:

Application Errors

• Applying makeup before inserting lenses: Always insert lenses first

• Using old makeup: Replace eye makeup every 3-6 months to prevent bacterial growth

• Applying eyeliner to the waterline: This increases the risk of product migration onto lenses

• Sharing eye makeup: This can transfer bacteria between users

• Applying makeup in moving vehicles: Increases risk of poking your eye or lens displacement

Hygiene Mistakes

• Not washing hands before touching lenses: Always start with clean hands

• Using makeup testers directly on eyes: Never try open testers on your eyes when shopping

• Storing makeup in the bathroom: Humidity promotes bacterial growth

• Not cleaning makeup brushes regularly: Aim to clean eye brushes weekly

• Pumping the mascara wand: This pushes air into the tube, promoting bacterial growth

Removal Issues

• Using makeup wipes with lenses still in: Remove lenses first

• Rubbing eyes vigorously: Gentle pressure is sufficient

• Skipping makeup removal before sleep: Always remove makeup completely

• Using harsh removers: Gentle products are better for eye health

• Incomplete removal: Traces of makeup can cause irritation the next day

Frequently Asked Questions About Contact Lenses and Makeup

Can I wear eyeliner with contact lenses?

Yes, you can wear eyeliner with contact lenses, but it's best to apply it after inserting your lenses. Choose cream or gel formulas that are less likely to flake, and avoid applying eyeliner to your waterline, as this increases the risk of product migrating onto your lenses or into your eyes.

Is it safe to use mascara with contacts?

Mascara can be safely used with contact lenses if you choose the right formula and apply it correctly. Opt for hypoallergenic, fiber-free formulas that are less likely to flake. Apply mascara after inserting your lenses, and be careful not to touch your lenses with the mascara wand.

How do I prevent eyeshadow fallout from getting in my contacts?

To prevent eyeshadow fallout from getting into your contacts, tap excess product off your brush before applying, use a good eye primer to help eyeshadow adhere better, and consider using cream eyeshadows which have minimal fallout. You can also try applying eye makeup before face makeup, so you can clean up any fallout without ruining your foundation.

What type of makeup remover is safe to use with contact lenses?

The safest makeup removers for contact lens wearers are oil-free, fragrance-free, and specifically formulated for sensitive eyes. Micellar water is a good option for many. Remember to always remove your contact lenses before using any makeup remover to avoid getting remover on your lenses.

Can I use setting spray while wearing contacts?

Yes, you can use setting spray while wearing contacts, but you should close your eyes completely during application and for a few seconds afterward. Hold the bottle at the recommended distance (usually 8-10 inches away) and allow the spray to dry completely before opening your eyes.

How do I know if my makeup is causing an eye infection?

Signs that your makeup might be causing an eye infection include redness, irritation, burning, itching, excessive tearing, discharge, swelling, or blurred vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, remove your contact lenses immediately, discontinue use of all eye makeup, and consult an eye care professional.

Should I choose different makeup colors based on my colored contact lenses?

Yes, choosing complementary makeup colors can enhance the appearance of your colored contact lenses. Generally, eyeshadow colors opposite to your lens color on the color wheel will make the lenses pop more. For example, copper or bronze eyeshadows enhance blue lenses, while purple shades complement green lenses.

Conclusion: Creating Your Perfect Eye Makeup and Contact Lens Routine

The relationship between contact lenses and makeup doesn't have to be complicated. By following the cardinal rule—lenses first, then makeup; makeup removal after lens removal—you'll protect your eyes and enjoy both the vision correction and aesthetic benefits of your contacts.

Remember that proper hygiene, suitable product selection, and careful application techniques are the keys to successfully combining contact lenses and eye makeup. With these practices in place, you can confidently create stunning eye looks while keeping your eyes healthy and comfortable.

At Bella Lenses, we're committed to helping you enjoy the best possible experience with your colored contact lenses. Our premium quality lenses are designed to be comfortable and safe while delivering stunning visual effects that can be beautifully enhanced with the right makeup techniques.

Browse our extensive collection of colored contact lenses to find the perfect match for your style, and pair them with these expert makeup tips for a truly eye-catching look