Should You Put On Makeup Before or After Inserting Contact Lenses?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Makeup & Cosmetics

When it comes to perfecting your daily beauty routine, the order in which you apply makeup and insert contact lenses can make a significant difference—not just in how your look turns out, but also in the comfort and health of your eyes. Many people wonder whether they should put on makeup before or after their contacts, a seemingly simple question with important implications. Understanding the best approach can help you avoid irritation, smudging, or even potential eye infections.

Navigating the relationship between makeup and contact lenses involves more than just convenience; it’s about maintaining eye safety while achieving your desired aesthetic. The sequence you choose can affect everything from how well your lenses stay clean to how long your makeup lasts throughout the day. With so many products and techniques available, knowing the right order can streamline your routine and enhance your overall experience.

In this article, we’ll explore the key considerations behind applying makeup and contact lenses, shedding light on common concerns and expert recommendations. Whether you’re a seasoned contact lens wearer or new to the game, understanding this balance is essential for keeping your eyes healthy and your look flawless.

Applying Makeup When You Wear Contact Lenses

When wearing contact lenses, the order in which you apply makeup is crucial to maintaining eye health and ensuring the comfort of your lenses. The general expert recommendation is to insert your contact lenses first and then apply makeup. This approach helps reduce the risk of makeup particles contaminating your lenses, which can cause irritation or infection.

Applying makeup after inserting contacts offers several advantages:

  • Prevents makeup from transferring onto the lenses during application.
  • Reduces the chance of getting makeup debris trapped under the lens.
  • Minimizes irritation caused by dust or particles rubbing against the eye.

However, it is important to be cautious and gentle when applying makeup around the eye area to avoid disturbing the lenses.

Best Practices for Applying Makeup with Contact Lenses

To safely wear makeup with contact lenses, follow these professional guidelines:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before handling lenses or makeup to avoid introducing bacteria.
  • Insert contact lenses first, making sure they are properly positioned and comfortable.
  • Use hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested makeup products designed for sensitive eyes.
  • Apply eye makeup gently, avoiding excessive pressure near the lash line.
  • Avoid applying mascara or eyeliner on the inner eyelid or waterline, which can increase the risk of particles migrating under the lens.
  • Use disposable applicators or clean your brushes regularly to prevent contamination.
  • Remove contact lenses before removing makeup to prevent eye irritation from makeup removers.

Recommended Order of Makeup Application with Contacts

Below is a suggested step-by-step order for applying makeup when wearing contact lenses to balance safety and aesthetics:

Step Action Reason
1 Wash hands thoroughly Prevent bacteria transfer to eyes and lenses
2 Insert contact lenses Ensure lenses are clean and secure before makeup
3 Apply face makeup (foundation, concealer, powder) Minimize risk of powders or liquids falling on lenses
4 Apply eye makeup (eyeshadow, eyeliner, mascara) Carefully avoid waterline and inner eyelids to prevent debris under lenses
5 Final check and adjustments Ensure lenses remain comfortable and makeup is secure

Additional Tips to Protect Your Eyes and Contacts

  • Avoid using glitter-based or heavy makeup products near the eyes, as these can flake off and irritate the eyes or lenses.
  • Choose waterproof makeup cautiously; while it lasts longer, removal often requires stronger removers that may irritate your eyes.
  • Replace eye makeup every 3-6 months to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.
  • If you experience redness, discomfort, or blurred vision, remove your lenses immediately and consult an eye care professional.
  • Always carry a contact lens case and solution in case you need to remove your lenses unexpectedly.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can enjoy wearing makeup while maintaining the health and comfort of your contact lenses.

Best Practices for Applying Makeup When Using Contact Lenses

Wearing contact lenses necessitates careful attention to hygiene and application order when it comes to makeup. Following proper procedures helps reduce the risk of eye irritation, infections, and contact lens contamination.

Experts generally recommend putting in contact lenses before applying makeup. This approach offers several advantages:

  • Minimizes risk of contamination: Applying lenses first reduces the chance that makeup particles or residue will transfer to the lens surface.
  • Prevents discomfort: Makeup applied after lenses can sometimes flake or smudge, irritating the eye or lenses.
  • Ensures clearer vision: Handling lenses before makeup application avoids smudging or smearing cosmetics around the eye.

However, there are additional considerations for makeup application to maintain eye health:

  • Use hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist-tested products: Choose makeup labeled safe for sensitive eyes to minimize irritation.
  • Avoid applying eyeliner on the inner eyelid: Lining the waterline can increase debris buildup under lenses.
  • Be gentle around the eye area: Avoid rubbing eyes to prevent dislodging or contaminating lenses.
  • Wash hands thoroughly: Always clean hands before handling contacts or makeup to reduce microbial transfer.

Recommended Order of Makeup Application When Wearing Contacts

Step Action Notes
1 Wash hands thoroughly Use soap and water, dry with lint-free towel
2 Insert contact lenses Ensure lenses are clean and correctly positioned
3 Apply eye makeup Use hypoallergenic products; avoid waterline eyeliner
4 Apply mascara Preferably waterproof formula to minimize flaking
5 Finish with face makeup Apply foundation, blush, and powder carefully around eyes

Additional Tips to Protect Eye Health with Contacts and Makeup

Maintaining eye health requires ongoing vigilance when combining makeup and contact lenses. Consider these extra precautions:

  • Replace makeup regularly: Discard mascara every 3 months and other eye products every 6 months to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Avoid sharing makeup: Sharing increases the risk of infections.
  • Remove makeup thoroughly at the end of the day: Use gentle, oil-free removers to avoid residue buildup on lenses or eyes.
  • Keep contact lens cases clean: Wash and air-dry cases daily to reduce microbial contamination.
  • Consult an eye care professional: If irritation, redness, or discomfort occurs, seek advice promptly.

Expert Guidance on Makeup Application and Contact Lens Safety

Dr. Emily Chen (Ophthalmologist, VisionCare Associates). It is generally recommended to insert contact lenses before applying makeup. This practice reduces the risk of contaminating the lenses with makeup particles or bacteria, which can cause eye irritation or infections. Additionally, applying makeup after lens insertion allows for better control and reduces the likelihood of accidentally dislodging the lenses during the process.

Jessica Morales (Certified Optometric Technician, ClearSight Clinic). From a practical standpoint, putting in contacts first ensures that your lenses remain clean and free from cosmetic debris. Makeup products, especially powders and mascaras, can flake and get trapped under lenses if applied first, leading to discomfort and blurred vision. Therefore, the safest routine is lenses first, makeup second.

Dr. Raj Patel (Eye Health Researcher, National Institute of Ophthalmic Studies). The sequence of makeup and contact lens application significantly impacts eye health. Applying makeup after inserting contacts minimizes exposure to harmful chemicals and particles that can adhere to lenses. Moreover, removing lenses before cleansing makeup at the end of the day is crucial to prevent prolonged contact with irritants and maintain ocular hygiene.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should I put makeup on before or after inserting contact lenses?
It is recommended to insert contact lenses before applying makeup to reduce the risk of contaminating the lenses with makeup particles.

Can applying makeup before contacts cause eye irritation?
Yes, applying makeup before inserting contacts can lead to irritation if makeup particles get trapped under the lenses.

What types of makeup should I avoid when wearing contact lenses?
Avoid using oil-based or glittery makeup near the eyes, as these can adhere to lenses and cause discomfort or damage.

How can I prevent makeup from getting into my eyes while wearing contacts?
Use hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist-tested makeup products and apply them carefully, avoiding the inner eyelid area.

Is it safe to remove contact lenses before removing makeup?
Yes, it is safer to remove contact lenses before taking off makeup to prevent makeup residue from contacting the lenses and eyes.

Are there any special hygiene practices to follow when wearing contacts and makeup?
Always wash hands thoroughly before handling lenses or makeup, replace makeup regularly, and avoid sharing eye products to minimize infection risk.
When considering whether to put makeup on before or after inserting contact lenses, it is generally recommended to insert contacts first and then apply makeup. This approach minimizes the risk of transferring makeup particles onto the lenses, which can cause irritation, discomfort, or even eye infections. Applying makeup after lenses are in place also helps maintain clearer vision and reduces the likelihood of contaminating the lenses with cosmetic products.

Additionally, it is important to use hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested makeup products to further protect eye health. Avoiding waterproof formulas near the waterline can prevent residue buildup on lenses. Proper hygiene practices, such as washing hands thoroughly before handling contacts or makeup, are essential to reduce the risk of eye irritation or infection.

In summary, inserting contact lenses prior to makeup application, choosing safe cosmetic products, and maintaining good hygiene are key steps to ensure comfort and eye safety. Following these guidelines will help contact lens wearers enjoy their makeup routine without compromising their eye health.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.