How to Get Makeup Off Contacts
Applying makeup while wearing contact lenses can feel like navigating a beauty minefield. One wrong move, and you’re left with blurry vision, irritated eyes, or a smudge apocalypse on your lenses.
But fear not! With a few smart strategies (and maybe a steady hand), you can rock your favorite makeup looks without sacrificing your eye health or comfort. Here's how to get makeup off contacts (and how to keep it from happening in the first place).
Here’s a quick breakdown:
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Always start with clean hands and lenses.
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Put your contacts in before you apply makeup.
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Choose makeup products that are contact lens-friendly (more on this later, promise).
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Remove your lenses before taking off your makeup, not after.
With these basics out of the way, let’s dive deeper into the nitty-gritty (or very gritty, if you've already gotten makeup in your contacts) of makeup and contact lens harmony.
Why does makeup keep getting on my contacts?
You’re trying to perfect your winged eyeliner or blend your smoky eye, and suddenly, your vision clouds. What gives? Makeup can get on your contacts for several reasons:
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Poor application techniques (blame those caffeine jitters)
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Using products with ingredients that migrate easily onto lenses
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Applying makeup after inserting contacts can transfer residue
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Not cleaning lenses properly after accidental smudges
So, what's the fix? Good habits and a few product swaps (we’ll cover those in the next sections). The right techniques and tools can prevent these mishaps and keep your lenses clear and comfy.
Makeup types that contribute to film, buildup, and smudges
Certain makeup products are more likely to cause issues for contact lens wearers. Avoid or use caution with:
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Powder eyeshadows. The fine particles can easily fall into your eyes and stick to your lenses.
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Oil-based mascaras and eyeliners. Oils can smear and create a film on your contacts.
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Shimmery or glittery products. These look great on your lids but spell disaster for your lenses.
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Waterline eyeliner. Applying eyeliner here increases the chance of it migrating onto your lenses.
Keep an eye out for ingredients like parabens, fragrances, and harsh chemicals that can irritate sensitive eyes. Opt for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formulas whenever possible.
How to avoid makeup and smudges on contact lenses
Ready to master makeup application as a contact lens wearer? Here are some tips.
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Wash your hands: This is non-negotiable. Clean hands prevent bacteria and makeup residue from transferring to your lenses.
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Insert contacts before makeup: Putting in your lenses first ensures you won’t smudge your masterpiece.
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Opt for cream vs. powder eyeshadows: Cream formulas are less likely to flake off and stick to your lenses.
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Choose oil-free mascara: Avoid smudging with a mascara that stays put without adding oil slicks to your eyes.
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Avoid waterline eyeliner: Stick to lining above or below the lash line.
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Use water-based makeup removers: Oil-based removers can leave residue, so go for something gentle and water-based.
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Take out contacts before removing makeup: This keeps any stray makeup or remover from transferring to your lenses.
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Consider daily lenses: Fresh lenses every day mean no leftover residue from yesterday’s makeup.
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Clean reusable lenses properly: For monthlies or weeklies, clean your lenses thoroughly with the recommended solution.
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Avoid certain beauty products: False eyelash glue, perfumes, oils, and lotions can all cause irritation or cloudiness.
Should you put makeup on before or after contacts?
Always put your contacts in before applying makeup. Why is that a big deal? It minimizes the risk of transferring makeup particles to your lenses and makes it easier to see what you’re doing. Plus, it’s just common sense — you don’t want to smudge your expertly blended eye look while fumbling with your lenses.
Makeup and contacts: risks
Using makeup with contacts isn’t inherently dangerous, but improper practices can lead to issues like:
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Irritation from makeup particles getting trapped under the lens
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Cloudy vision caused by oils or powders sticking to lenses
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Infections if bacteria transfer from dirty hands or products
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Dry eyes from some makeup products
Keep your lenses and tools clean, and don’t ignore signs of discomfort — your eyes deserve VIP treatment.
Can you wear mascara with contacts?
Yes, you can absolutely wear mascara with contacts! Just follow a few rules:
Tips for wearing and applying mascara with contact lenses:
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Use a waterproof, oil-free formula to prevent smudging.
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Apply mascara to the tips of your lashes only to avoid product near the base.
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Avoid fiber mascaras (those tiny fibers can fall into your eyes).
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Replace mascara every 3 months to avoid bacterial buildup.
Can you wear eyeliner with contacts?
Yes, but tread carefully. Eyeliner can be a contact lens wearer’s best friend or worst enemy.
Tips for applying and wearing eyeliner with contact lenses:
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Stick to pencil or gel liners rather than liquid formulas.
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Avoid the waterline (seriously, just don’t do it).
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Use a light touch to prevent flakes or smudges.
Can I wear eyeliner on my waterline with contacts?
Technically, you can, but it’s not recommended. Eyeliner on the waterline increases the likelihood of transferring product directly onto your lenses. If you insist (because beauty knows no pain, right?), opt for a hypoallergenic, waterproof liner, and use it sparingly.
Tips for applying eyeliner on the waterline with contacts:
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Make sure your hands and tools are clean.
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Apply a thin, even line to minimize product transfer.
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Be prepared to clean your lenses if needed.
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Remove any smudged liner gently.
Top products for how to get makeup off contacts
If makeup does find its way onto your lenses, all is not lost. You can manage the aftermath of a makeup strike on your contacts if you clean them immediately with the right products:
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Clear Care Plus cleaning and disinfecting solution is perfect for deep cleaning stubborn residue.
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Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution is gentle yet effective for removing minor smudges.
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Opti-Free Puremoist keeps lenses clean and hydrated.
Best contact brands for makeup wearers
Some contact lenses are better suited for makeup wearers, thanks to their comfort and resistance to smudges. While you're probably not going to pick your contact lenses based on how they handle makeup (you do have a prescription, after all), you can still factor this into your buying decision. All things being equal, you might want to ask an eye care professional about some of these brands:
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Acuvue Oasys: Known for its high oxygen permeability and moisture retention
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Dailies Total 1: A daily disposable option with a silky-smooth surface
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Biofinity Energys: Ideal for long days and extended wear
Contacts still cloudy?
If your contacts remain cloudy despite cleaning, makeup may not be the culprit. Consider these other causes:
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Dry eyes. Dehydrated lenses can appear foggy.
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Protein deposits. Buildup from natural eye proteins can cloud your lenses.
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Lens damage. Small scratches or tears can affect clarity.
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Infections. Consult an eye doctor if irritation persists.
With these tips in mind, you can confidently flaunt your makeup skills while keeping your eyes and lenses in tip-top shape because you know how to get makeup off contacts. And remember, when in doubt, prioritize your eye health over the perfect cat-eye — your peepers will thank you! Get started with an online vision exam.
Did you know you can order contacts online?
Say goodbye to trips to the eye doctor and hello to convenience! With 1-800 Contacts, you can easily order your contact lenses online and have them delivered straight to your door. Plus, our online vision exam makes it simple to get the prescription you need without leaving home. And the best part? You’ll save money on your first order with 1-800 Contacts. It’s never been easier to get your contacts!
FAQ
Can I wear false lashes with contacts?
Yeah, that shouldn't be a problem. Still, try to avoid getting glue on your lenses, and maybe opt for hypoallergenic adhesives.
What makeup is best for contact lens wearers?
Look for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and oil-free products.
How do I clean my contacts if makeup gets on them?
Use a multipurpose or hydrogen peroxide-based contact cleaning solution to remove residue.
Can I wear contacts while applying makeup?
Yes, but always insert your lenses before starting your makeup routine.