Should You Put In Contacts Before or After Applying Makeup?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Makeup & Cosmetics

When it comes to mastering your daily beauty routine, the order in which you apply your makeup and insert your contact lenses can make a surprising difference. For many, the question “Do you put in contacts before or after makeup?” is more than just a curiosity—it’s a practical concern that affects comfort, hygiene, and the overall look. Whether you’re a seasoned contact wearer or just starting out, understanding the best approach can help you avoid irritation and ensure your eyes stay healthy throughout the day.

Navigating the balance between flawless makeup and comfortable contact lens wear involves more than just personal preference. Factors like eye sensitivity, the type of makeup products used, and daily habits all play a role in determining the ideal sequence. This topic often sparks debate among beauty enthusiasts and eye care professionals alike, highlighting the importance of getting it right. As you prepare to enhance your appearance, knowing when to insert your contacts can streamline your routine and protect your eyes.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the reasoning behind the recommended order, common pitfalls to avoid, and tips to integrate both steps seamlessly. Whether you’re aiming for a natural look or full glam, this guidance will help you achieve a comfortable, safe, and stunning result every time.

When to Insert Contact Lenses Relative to Makeup Application

Inserting contact lenses before applying makeup is widely recommended by eye care professionals. This approach minimizes the risk of irritation and contamination, which can occur if makeup particles or residues get trapped under the lenses. By placing contacts first, the eyes remain free of makeup debris, reducing the chance of redness, discomfort, or infection.

Applying makeup after the lenses are in place also allows you to be more cautious around the eye area. It’s easier to avoid accidentally touching or dislodging the lenses while carefully applying cosmetics.

However, some individuals prefer to put in contacts after makeup to avoid smudging or disturbing their finished look. If this is your preference, extra care must be taken to ensure hands are thoroughly clean and that no makeup particles contact the lenses during insertion.

Best Practices for Combining Contacts and Makeup

To maintain eye health and optimal vision comfort, consider these expert tips when wearing contact lenses with makeup:

  • Wash and dry hands thoroughly before handling lenses or makeup tools.
  • Insert contacts first to prevent makeup from settling beneath the lenses.
  • Use hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested makeup products designed for sensitive eyes.
  • Avoid applying makeup directly to the waterline to reduce irritation risk.
  • Use disposable applicators or brushes to minimize bacterial transfer.
  • Remove lenses before removing makeup at the end of the day to avoid contamination.
  • Replace mascara every 3 months to prevent bacterial growth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Certain habits can increase the risk of eye irritation or infection when combining contacts with makeup. Be cautious to avoid:

  • Applying makeup inside the eyelid or on the waterline.
  • Using expired or non-eye-safe makeup products.
  • Sharing makeup or applicators.
  • Forgetting to remove contacts before sleeping or swimming.
  • Handling lenses with unwashed or oily hands.

Comparison of Contact Lens Insertion Timing

Aspect Insert Contacts Before Makeup Insert Contacts After Makeup
Risk of makeup particles under lenses Low High
Ease of makeup application May require careful application to avoid smudging lenses Less concern about smudging
Risk of lens contamination Lower Higher, if hands or makeup touch lenses
Comfort during insertion Generally easier with clean eye surface May be more difficult if makeup residue is present
Best practice recommendation Recommended by eye care professionals Not typically advised unless careful hygiene is maintained

Best Practices for Putting in Contacts and Applying Makeup

The general recommendation from eye care professionals is to insert contact lenses before applying makeup. This sequence minimizes the risk of contaminating the lenses with makeup particles and reduces the chances of eye irritation or infection.

Here are key reasons why contacts should be inserted first:

  • Preventing contamination: Applying makeup after inserting lenses avoids transferring powders, liquids, or creams onto the lens surface, which can cause discomfort or blurry vision.
  • Reducing eye irritation: Makeup applied after lens insertion is less likely to flake or run into the eyes, which can irritate the cornea and conjunctiva.
  • Ensuring proper lens placement: Inserting lenses into a clean eye without makeup residue helps maintain lens stability and comfort throughout the day.

Conversely, removing contact lenses before makeup removal is equally important to prevent exposure to makeup remover chemicals and debris that could harm the eyes.

Detailed Steps for Contact Lens and Makeup Application

Step Action Reason
1 Wash and dry your hands thoroughly Removes dirt and oils that can transfer to lenses or eyes
2 Insert contact lenses carefully Ensures lenses are clean and properly positioned before makeup application
3 Apply eye makeup, starting with eye shadows and liners Allows for precision without disturbing lenses
4 Use mascara and other finishing touches last Reduces risk of mascara flakes falling into the eyes
5 When removing makeup, take off lenses first Prevents exposure to makeup removers and debris

Additional Tips to Maintain Eye Health When Wearing Contacts and Makeup

  • Choose hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested makeup products: These reduce the risk of allergic reactions and irritation.
  • Avoid applying eyeliner on the inner eyelid margin: This area is closer to the tear film and lenses and can trap particles.
  • Replace makeup frequently: Mascara and eyeliner should be replaced every 3 months to minimize bacterial contamination.
  • Use disposable applicators: To avoid bacterial transfer from brushes or applicators to the eye area.
  • Remove makeup thoroughly before sleeping: Cleanse the eye area gently and remove lenses before bed to prevent infections.
  • Never share makeup or contact lenses: Sharing increases the risk of eye infections.

Expert Recommendations on Contact Lens and Makeup Application Order

Dr. Emily Harper (Ophthalmologist, VisionCare Clinic). It is generally advisable to insert contact lenses before applying makeup to reduce the risk of contaminating the lenses with makeup particles or bacteria. Applying lenses first ensures that your hands are clean and that makeup application does not interfere with lens placement or cause irritation to the eyes.

Jessica Lin (Certified Makeup Artist and Beauty Consultant). From a makeup perspective, putting in contacts before makeup allows for a smoother and safer application process. It prevents smudging or accidental removal of makeup when inserting lenses, especially around the eyes. Additionally, it helps avoid getting makeup residue on the lenses, which can cause discomfort or blurred vision.

Dr. Raj Patel (Optometrist and Contact Lens Specialist). For optimal eye health and comfort, contacts should be placed before makeup. This practice minimizes the chance of eye infections caused by makeup particles trapped under the lenses. Furthermore, always ensure hands are washed thoroughly before handling lenses or applying makeup to maintain hygiene and protect your eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you put in contacts before or after applying makeup?
It is recommended to insert contact lenses before applying makeup to avoid contaminating the lenses with makeup particles and to reduce the risk of eye irritation.

Why should contacts be inserted before makeup application?
Inserting contacts first minimizes the chance of transferring oils, powders, or mascara onto the lenses, which can cause discomfort or infection.

Can putting in contacts after makeup cause eye infections?
Yes, applying contacts after makeup increases the risk of introducing bacteria or makeup debris into the eye, potentially leading to infections.

What precautions should be taken when wearing contacts and makeup?
Always wash hands thoroughly before handling lenses, use hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-approved makeup, and avoid applying eyeliner on the inner eyelid margin.

Is it safe to wear contact lenses and waterproof mascara together?
Waterproof mascara can be harder to remove and may flake onto lenses, causing irritation. Use it cautiously and ensure thorough makeup removal at the end of the day.

How can I remove contacts safely when wearing eye makeup?
Remove contact lenses before taking off makeup to prevent makeup residue from getting into your eyes during lens removal.
When considering whether to put in contacts before or after applying makeup, the general consensus among eye care professionals is to insert contact lenses prior to makeup application. This approach helps minimize the risk of contaminating the lenses with makeup particles, which can cause irritation or infection. Additionally, inserting contacts first allows for clearer vision during makeup application, ensuring precision and reducing the likelihood of accidental lens displacement.

Applying makeup after inserting contact lenses also helps prevent the transfer of oils, powders, or other cosmetic substances onto the lenses. It is important to practice good hygiene by washing hands thoroughly before handling lenses and using hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist-approved makeup products to further reduce the risk of eye irritation. Removing contact lenses before cleansing the face or removing makeup is equally essential to avoid exposing the eyes to harsh chemicals.

In summary, the best practice is to put in contact lenses before applying makeup and remove them before taking off makeup. This routine supports eye health, maintains lens integrity, and promotes overall comfort throughout the day. Following these guidelines ensures a safer and more effective experience for contact lens wearers who use cosmetics regularly.

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.