Eye Health and Cosmetics: Changing the Narrative

Eye Health and Cosmetics: Changing the Narrative

Available from: 2/06/2025 (AEST)

Where to publish: https://lms.optometry.org.au/course/view.php?id=899

Provider: Mivision

Activity Outline

This article by Dr Jacqueline Beltz explores the integration of eye health and cosmetics in clinical discussions, encouraging eye care professionals to shift from restrictive narratives to empowering conversations that support both eye health and patient confidence. It highlights the importance of framing lid hygiene as a routine part of skincare, using positive language to improve compliance and patient engagement. The article examines how cosmetic products, particularly eye makeup, can impact the ocular surface, tear film, and lid margins, potentially exacerbating conditions like dry eye disease and meibomian gland dysfunction. It also discusses the role of specific ingredients—such as preservatives, alcohols, fragrances, and prostaglandin analogues—in causing irritation or allergic reactions, while emphasising the importance of evaluating the entire product formulation rather than individual ingredients alone. The regulatory environment for cosmetics in Australia is outlined, as well as the challenges posed by unregulated marketing terms like "hypoallergenic" or "ophthalmologist tested." Practical strategies are provided for optometrists to engage patients in conversations about makeup, including product recommendations, proper removal techniques, and the importance of gentle, effective cleansing. This article empowers optometrists to support patients in maintaining both eye health and personal expression through informed cosmetic choices.

Learning Objectives

• Understand how common cosmetic ingredients and practices can contribute to ocular surface disease, lid margin dysfunction, and dry eye symptoms
• Identify regulatory limitations and misleading cosmetic claims, and evaluate product safety based on ingredient function and formulation context
• Develop practical strategies to initiate positive, non-judgemental conversations with patients about makeup use, cleansing routines, and appropriate product recommendations to support both eye health and self-confidence

Max CPD hours awarded: 1

Session Information