Should You Put On Contacts Before or After Applying Makeup?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Makeup & Cosmetics

When it comes to the daily routine of getting ready, small steps can make a big difference—especially for those who wear contact lenses and enjoy makeup. One common question that often arises is: do you put on contacts before or after makeup? This seemingly simple query can impact not only the comfort and safety of your eyes but also the flawless finish of your look. Understanding the best order to follow can help you avoid irritation, smudging, and even potential infections.

The relationship between contact lenses and makeup application is more than just a matter of preference; it involves careful consideration of hygiene, timing, and technique. Whether you’re a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, knowing when to insert your lenses can streamline your routine and ensure both your eyes and your makeup stay in top shape throughout the day. This topic touches on practical tips, expert advice, and common pitfalls to watch out for.

As you explore this subject further, you’ll discover the reasons behind the recommended practices and how small adjustments can lead to a more comfortable and polished experience. Whether you’re preparing for a casual day out or a special occasion, mastering the order of contacts and makeup application will help you look and feel your best with confidence.

Best Practices for Applying Contacts and Makeup

When deciding whether to put on contact lenses before or after makeup, it is essential to consider hygiene, comfort, and the risk of contamination. The general consensus among eye care professionals is to insert contact lenses before applying makeup. This approach helps minimize the risk of getting makeup particles on the lenses, which can cause irritation or infection.

Applying contacts first allows you to handle your eyes with clean hands, reducing the chance of transferring bacteria or makeup residue. Once the lenses are in place, you can proceed with your makeup routine more confidently, knowing the lenses are secure and uncontaminated.

Detailed Steps for Applying Contacts and Makeup Safely

Follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and comfortable experience when using contact lenses and makeup:

  • Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching your lenses or eyes.
  • Insert contact lenses first to avoid getting makeup residue on them.
  • Apply eye makeup carefully, starting with eyeshadow and then eyeliner, to prevent particles from falling onto the lenses.
  • Avoid applying mascara or eyeliner on the waterline (inner rim of the eyelid) as this can increase the risk of contamination.
  • Use hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested makeup products to reduce irritation.
  • Remove contact lenses before removing makeup at the end of the day.
  • Cleanse your face gently to avoid getting makeup residue on your lenses if they are still in.

Common Makeup Mistakes to Avoid When Wearing Contacts

Even with proper sequencing, certain habits can negatively impact eye health or lens comfort. Avoid these common mistakes:

  • Applying eyeliner on the inner eyelid (waterline), which can clog tear ducts and irritate the eyes.
  • Using old or expired makeup products that harbor bacteria.
  • Sharing makeup tools or products, increasing the risk of infections.
  • Sleeping in contact lenses with makeup on, which can cause serious eye issues.
  • Rubbing your eyes vigorously to fix smudged makeup, as this can dislodge lenses or scratch the cornea.

Comparison of Contact Lens Application Timing with Makeup

Aspect Contacts Before Makeup Contacts After Makeup
Risk of Lens Contamination Low – lenses inserted on clean eyes and hands High – makeup particles may get on lenses
Comfort Better – lenses less likely to irritate eyes Lower – makeup residue can cause discomfort
Makeup Application Ease Good – lenses secure and eyes look natural Challenging – risk of smudging or disturbing makeup
Risk of Eye Infection Lower Higher due to potential contamination

Additional Tips for Contact Lens Wearers Using Makeup

  • Opt for cream-based or powder eyeshadows that are less likely to flake compared to chalky formulas.
  • Use disposable applicators for mascara and eyeliner to maintain hygiene.
  • Consider waterproof makeup formulas to reduce smudging but be cautious with removers, as some can affect lens material.
  • Carry contact lens solution and rewetting drops to maintain lens moisture throughout the day.
  • Regularly clean your makeup brushes to prevent bacteria buildup.

Adhering to these best practices helps ensure the health of your eyes and the longevity of your contact lenses, while allowing you to enjoy your makeup routine without complications.

When to Put On Contact Lenses in Relation to Makeup

Wearing contact lenses requires careful consideration of hygiene and technique, especially when combined with makeup application. The general expert recommendation is to put on contact lenses before applying makeup. This practice minimizes the risk of contaminating your lenses and helps maintain eye health.

Here are the primary reasons why contacts should be inserted prior to makeup:

  • Reduced risk of contamination: Applying makeup after inserting lenses ensures that particles such as powders, mascara fibers, or eyeliner residue do not settle on the lenses, which could cause irritation or infection.
  • Minimized lens damage: Makeup products containing oils or chemicals can adhere to the lens surface if applied beforehand, potentially reducing comfort and lens lifespan.
  • Improved application accuracy: With lenses already in place, you can shape your eye makeup (eyeliner, mascara, eyeshadow) more precisely to your eye’s natural contours without interference.
  • Ease of lens insertion: Clean, makeup-free fingers facilitate safer lens handling and reduce the chance of transferring makeup particles onto the lenses.

Best Practices for Applying Makeup When Wearing Contacts

To further protect your eyes and lenses, follow these expert tips when applying makeup around contact lenses:

Makeup Aspect Recommended Practice Reason
Eyeliner Apply on the outer rim of eyelids; avoid the inner waterline. Prevents particles from transferring onto lenses and causing irritation.
Mascara Use a hypoallergenic, water-based formula and apply carefully to avoid flakes. Reduces the risk of flakes falling into the eyes and discomfort.
Eyeshadow Use pressed powder or cream shadows; avoid loose powders. Loose powders can easily fall into the eyes and onto lenses.
Makeup Brushes Clean brushes regularly and avoid touching eyes directly after lens insertion. Prevents transfer of bacteria and makeup residue to the lenses.
Removal Remove contact lenses before taking off makeup. Prevents makeup products from contaminating lenses during removal.

Additional Tips for Contact Lens and Makeup Compatibility

To maintain eye comfort and lens integrity while wearing makeup, consider the following additional expert recommendations:

  • Wash hands thoroughly before handling lenses or makeup to avoid transferring oils and debris.
  • Use fragrance-free and ophthalmologist-tested makeup products to minimize allergic reactions and irritation.
  • Avoid waterproof makeup unless necessary, as it can be difficult to remove and may leave residues on lenses.
  • Replace mascara every three months to reduce bacterial contamination risks.
  • Carry lens cleaning solution for emergency cleaning if makeup particles get on the lenses.
  • Avoid applying makeup inside the lower waterline to prevent direct contact with lenses.

Expert Guidance on Contact Lens Application and Makeup

Dr. Emily Chen (Ophthalmologist, VisionCare Clinic). It is generally recommended to insert contact lenses before applying makeup. This approach minimizes the risk of transferring makeup particles onto the lenses, which can cause irritation or infection. Additionally, putting in contacts first ensures that your hands are clean and free from cosmetic residues, reducing the chance of eye contamination.

Jessica Martinez (Certified Optometrist and Eye Health Educator). Applying makeup after inserting contacts is the safest practice to prevent accidental damage to the lenses. When makeup is applied first, there is a higher likelihood of smudging or flaking, which can get trapped under the lenses and cause discomfort. Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses to maintain eye hygiene.

Dr. Raj Patel (Cosmetic Chemist and Eye Safety Consultant). From a cosmetic safety perspective, placing contact lenses before makeup application reduces the risk of chemical exposure to the eyes. Many eye makeup products contain ingredients that can irritate or degrade contact lenses if they come into direct contact. Therefore, inserting lenses first creates a protective barrier and helps maintain both eye health and makeup integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Why should contacts be inserted before makeup application?
Inserting contacts first minimizes the chance of makeup particles getting trapped under the lenses, which can cause discomfort or infection.

Can makeup affect the comfort of wearing contact lenses?
Yes, certain makeup products, especially those with glitter or powders, can irritate the eyes or adhere to lenses, reducing comfort.

What types of makeup should be avoided when wearing contact lenses?
Avoid oil-based products, waterproof mascara, and eyeliner applied on the inner eyelid margin, as they can cause lens contamination and eye irritation.

How can I safely remove contact lenses when wearing makeup?
Wash your hands thoroughly before removal, avoid rubbing your eyes, and use a mirror to carefully remove lenses to prevent smudging or transferring makeup into the eyes.

Is it necessary to clean contact lenses after wearing makeup?
Yes, cleaning lenses after use removes any makeup residue or debris, maintaining lens hygiene and eye health.
When considering whether to put on contacts before or after makeup, it is generally recommended to insert contact lenses before applying any makeup. This approach helps minimize the risk of getting makeup particles or residue on the lenses, which can cause irritation or infection. Additionally, handling contacts with clean, makeup-free hands reduces the chance of transferring oils or bacteria to the eyes.

Applying makeup after inserting contacts also allows for better control and precision, especially when using products around the eyes such as eyeliner or mascara. It is advisable to avoid applying makeup directly on the waterline and to use hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist-tested products to further protect eye health. Removing contact lenses before cleansing the face or removing makeup is equally important to prevent contamination and ensure comfort.

In summary, prioritizing eye safety and hygiene by putting in contact lenses before makeup application is the best practice. This routine helps maintain clear vision, reduces the risk of eye irritation, and supports overall ocular health. Following these guidelines ensures a safer and more comfortable experience for contact lens wearers who use makeup 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.