This is one of the questions that I am most frequently asked.
You should wait at least 4 days before using powder-based makeup products, such as blushers and foundation, and 2 weeks before applying any eye makeup, such as mascara. This is because small particles or liquids from the makeup could come into contact with your eye, increasing the risk of infection or eye irritation.
Additionally, I recommend that patients not have any form of eyebrow or eyelash treatments for at least 4 weeks after cataract surgery. This is to avoid putting any pressure on the eyes, as almost all modern eye surgery is done without stitches.
By protecting your eyes, you will reduce the risk of any complications after surgery while also controlling eye conditions such as blepharitis. Your eye hygiene post-surgery should not be overlooked: your eyes deliver 80 percent of the information you need to perceive the world.
How long does it take for the eyes to settle down after cataract surgery?
After cataract surgery, most patients notice improvements in vision almost immediately, but the eyes continue to heal over the following weeks. In the first few days, vision may be slightly blurry or watery, and the eyes can feel scratchy or sensitive. By around 4 weeks, the eyes are generally fully healed and vision at or close to its final result. Healing times can vary between individuals, so it’s important to follow your eye surgeon’s advice and attend all postoperative appointments.
What are the best practices for wearing makeup after cataract surgery?
There are a number of best practices you should be following once you are ready to wear makeup again after cataract surgery. These are:
Freshen up your makeup
I strongly encourage my patients to throw away all used eye cosmetics and tools following surgery and to start again with new products wherever possible. This is to reduce the risk of any eye infection.
Irrespective of having eye surgery, as a rule of thumb, you should replace your eye makeup within two to three months of opening to avoid spreading bacteria to your eyes.
Apply with care
Be extra cautious when applying makeup near your eyes. Always keep products away from the lash line and never apply eyeliner to the inner rim (the “waterline”). Use a clean brush or disposable applicator, and make sure your hands are thoroughly washed before you begin.
Remove makeup gently
At the end of the day, take care when removing your makeup. Use a mild, fragrance-free remover suitable for sensitive eyes. Apply it to a cotton pad and gently press it on your closed eyelid to dissolve makeup before wiping away – avoid rubbing or tugging the skin.
Always remove all traces of makeup before bed to reduce the risk of infection or blocked glands.
When to stop and seek advice
If you notice redness, irritation, or discharge after applying makeup, stop using it immediately and contact your cataract surgeon or optometrist for advice. It’s always better to pause and check than risk disrupting your recovery.
What are the best makeup products to use after cataract surgery?
Eye-make up remover
When you are ready to start using cosmetics again, I advise patients to be as gentle as possible when removing make-up. You can use cotton pads with a make-up remover over the closed eye to gently and effectively remove eye-make up.
Magnifying mirror
Even if you have chosen to have surgery with a premium lens (multi-focal lens and extended depth of focus lens), then using a magnifying mirror can be very helpful for applying make up with the best attention to detail.
Lubricating eye drops
Lubricating eye drops will help make the eyes more comfortable, relieving any dry eye symptoms. These drops typically contain sodium hyaluronate, which is the sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid (HA), which is a substance that naturally occurs in your body, including your skin and joint fluid.
Lubricating eye drops can be bought over-the-counter or online (so no prescription is needed), and can safely be used as often as needed to keep your eyes comfortable.
What are the risks of wearing makeup too soon after cataract surgery?
Wearing makeup too soon after cataract surgery can increase the risk of complications because your eyes and incisions are still healing. Old or contaminated cosmetics can introduce bacteria, potentially leading to infections such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, or even more serious eye infections that may affect healing or vision.
If you’d like to learn more about cataract surgery, please get in touch with our eye clinic in Moorfield. We’re here to help and answer any questions you may have.
