K-Beauty Eye Makeup and Contact Lenses: A Practical Routine
An eye-care sequence for contact lens wearers who use Korean beauty makeup, with U.S. FDA references.
If you wear contact lenses and use Korean eye makeup, the order of your routine matters. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends putting lenses in before applying cosmetics and removing them before taking makeup off. Follow your own eye-care professional’s instructions for your lenses and products.
Before makeup
Wash and rinse your hands before handling contact lenses, and follow the cleaning and wearing directions given by your eye-care professional. The FDA advises applying aerosol products such as hairspray before inserting lenses, then applying cosmetics after the lenses are in.
When it is time to remove makeup
Take your lenses out before removing makeup. Use the contact lens solution and care routine recommended for your lenses; do not assume that a cosmetic cleanser can substitute for contact lens solution. Keep makeup and its applicators clean and follow the label instructions.
Know when to stop
The FDA advises removing lenses and contacting an eye doctor right away if your vision changes, your eyes are red, painful or itchy, or you have excessive tearing. Do not continue using a cosmetic that irritates the eye. Keep a backup pair of glasses available as the FDA recommends.
Buying and comparing products
- Choose products intended for the area where you plan to apply them and read their directions.
- Check ingredient lists for ingredients you know you react to; a label claim alone cannot guarantee suitability.
- Ask an eye-care professional about products if you have a condition or questions about using them with lenses.
- For more on testers and eye makeup hygiene, read THE CAST’s related Q&A linked below.
Decorative contact lenses are medical devices in the United States, and the FDA says they require an eye examination and prescription. Rules in other countries may differ. This routine is general information and does not replace individual eye-care advice.