CDC Warns Against Using Eye Drops in Mascara After Infections

The Dangers of Putting Eye Drops in Mascara

Using eye drops like Visine as an ingredient in DIY mascara recipes has recently gained popularity online. The claim is that adding a few drops will make mascara last longer on lashes. However, ophthalmologists strongly warn against this dangerous practice due to serious infection risks.

Understanding the Online Trend

Several years ago, beauty vloggers and influencers began recommending thinning out thick or dried mascara formulas with artificial tear eye drops. The liquid lubricant temporarily rehydrates the mascara wand for smoother application.

Visine and other ocular lubricants contain harmless compounds like polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol. When applied directly in the eyes as intended, they provide soothing relief.

However, using them in mascara formulas violates all standards for cosmetic ingredient safety. Eye drops are sterile medical solutions not approved for cosmetic use.

Risk of Bacterial Contamination

Using compromised eye drops inside mascara carries a high risk of contamination. The products can harbor dangerous antibiotic-resistant bacteria when stored incorrectly after opening.

CDC investigations found users contracting serious eye infections from EzriCare and Delsam Pharma artificial tears contaminated with drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria.

Bacteria rapidly multiply in eye drops once bottles are opened. Every application with the mascara wand further contaminates the formula. This creates an ideal environment for severe infection.

How Infections Occur

If contaminated eye drops are combined with mascara, the bacteria have direct access to the delicate tissue of the eyelid and cornea with every use.

Resistant organisms like Pseudomonas can cause ulcerative keratitis, an aggressive eye infection that can quickly lead to permanent vision damage.

Using expired eye makeup also carries contamination issues. However, mixing in additional liquid allows much heavier bacteria colonization compared to normal dry formulas.

Troubling Statistics on Outcomes

Over 60 cases of antibiotic-resistant eye infections have occurred from using contaminated EzriCare and Delsam Pharma eye drops.

Out of these cases, the CDC confirms:

• 55 resulted in hospitalization
• 43 required outpatient antibiotic therapy
• 35 experienced permanent vision loss
• 34 needed corrective surgery
• 11 suffered complete blindness
• 3 cases were fatal

Any eye infection requires urgent treatment to limit damage. But resistant bacteria make oral and intravenous antibiotics less effective, leading to catastrophic outcomes.

Avoiding Eye Health Dangers

No DIY beauty trick warrants risking vision health and safety. Ophthalmologists emphasize proper eye hygiene and avoiding contamination when applying makeup.

Never Use Eye Drops in Mascara

Pouring non-sterile liquid into mascara formulas poses an unacceptable infection risk. Never purchase pre-mixed products advertising this practice.

Discontinue use immediately if current mascaras seem too dried out or thick for comfortable application.

Replace Mascara Every 3 Months

The typical shelf life of an opened mascara tube is only about three months. Continued use beyond this timeframe allows more bacteria buildup.

Mark opening dates on tubes with a permanent marker to track replacement timing.

Never Share Mascara

Used wands and tubes carry high bacteria levels from contact with eyes and hands. Never share eye makeup to prevent infections.

Use disposable applicators whenever testing department store samples.

Proper Storage Matters

Keep mascara tubes tightly sealed and stored appropriately between uses. Do not store them in humid environments like bathrooms.

Check ingredients on labels to avoid formulas with added water or liquid polymers, which encourage contamination.

Practice General Eye Hygiene

Always wash hands thoroughly before applying eye makeup. Never apply products while in a moving vehicle or lying down to avoid contamination.

Avoid rubbing eyes while wearing mascara or eyeliner which can drag bacteria internally.

Never share eye makeup tools or re-dip used wands back into tubes.

Take care removing makeup and cleansing around the eyes daily to prevent styes.

Summary

Using medical eye drops in cosmetic mascara poses substantial health dangers with no evidence of lash benefits. Take care to use eye makeup safely and hygienically instead.

Discuss any eye symptoms like pain, discharge, swelling, redness, blurry vision with an ophthalmologist immediately to prevent vision damage.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.