Do you have to wait a long time before you can finally apply eyeliner again after your cataract surgery? Have you been wondering when exactly you can resume your favorite makeup routines? If so, this article might be perfect for you. We’ll discuss the important aspects you need to consider before wearing eyeliner following your surgery, and all the considerations that go into your recovery!
1. What is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract Surgery Overview
Cataract surgery involves replacing a clouded or obscured lens with an artificial lens, aiming to provide improved vision. It is one of the most common surgical procedures in developed countries, and one of the oldest operations practiced in modern medicine.
Cataract surgery typically takes about 15 minutes, and is most commonly performed on an outpatient basis. The procedure is often done on both eyes, although in some cases, waiting for weeks or months might be recommended between two procedures. If any other eye conditions are present, such as glaucoma, they need to be treated first.
The process typically involves administering anesthesia and making a tiny incision in the eye. An opening is created in the lens using either a laser or an ultrasound device, and then the damaged lens is removed and replaced with an artificial one. Patients will usually need to wear glasses for clear vision in most cases.
- The procedure is done on an outpatient basis.
- Operations typically take 15 minutes.
- The damaged lens is replaced with an artificial one.
- Patients will usually need to wear glasses for clear vision.
2. Pre-Cataract Surgery: Eye Makeup Precautions
Using Makeup Before Surgery
If you’re planning on having cataract surgery, it’s important to pay particular attention to your eye makeup habits leading up to the big day.
Avoid Using Mascara, Eyeliner, and Eyeshadow
In the weeks before cataract surgery, it’s best to avoid using mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow. These products contain dubious ingredients that can irritate your eyes and cause a range of preventable infections.
What Can I Use?
Fortunately, there are plenty of eye-friendly makeup options out there that you can use still use as part of your daily routine up until the date of your surgery. These products include:
- Mineral-based makeup
- Vegan makeup
- Palette-based eyeshadow
- Hypoallergenic cosmetics
These types of makeup will reduce the risk of any post-operative infections or other complications related to your cataract surgery.
Better Safe than Sorry
When it comes to the safety of your vision, it’s better to be overly cautious than negligent. Take the extra time to research and purchase only makeup products that pose no risk to your eyes. In doing so, you can ensure that your cataract surgery goes off without a hitch.
3. Post-Cataract Surgery: When Can You Wear Eyeliner?
While it’s important to follow your ophthalmologist’s post-cataract surgery instructions, one of the common questions is when it’s safe to wear makeup again. Does putting eyeliner on count as wearing makeup?
When it comes to eyeliner, you’ll want to wait a bit after your cataract surgery. It’s advised to wait until your eyes have healed and the risk of infection has subsided. This could be anywhere from 5 days to as many as 3 weeks after the release of the patch, depending on your individual healing time.
Once your eye has healed and you receive the clearance from your doctor to begin using the eyeliner and other makeup, the trick is to be gentle and to follow a few safety guidelines:
- Always apply liquid eyeliner with a brush, as it provides the most precise line.
- Curl your lashes before applying mascara.
- Check the expiration date on all makeup and eyeshadow that comes in powder form and discard any that has expired.
- Never share mascara or eye makeup with anyone else. Bacterial infections are easily transferred from one person to the next through makeup.
- Replace your mascara every 3 months.
If you follow these simple precautions, then there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy wearing your eyeliner safely after cataract surgery.
4. Eyeliner Hygiene After Cataract Surgery
Eyeliner hygiene is an important part of maintaining and preserving vision quality following cataract surgery. When eyeliner is not kept in an optimal condition, it can become infected, cause irritation or even cause permanent vision damage.
Invest in Quality Eyeliner
- Avoid cheaper eyeliners containing chemicals that can cause irritation and eye problems.
- Look for natural or organic eyeliners that are free from harsh and potentially damaging ingredients.
- Look for eyeliners with fewer ingredients and no fragrances.
- Invest in eyeliners that contain hypoallergenic ingredients, such as vitamin E.
Store Eyeliner Properly
- Always close the eyeliner cap tightly after use.
- Store the eyeliner in the refrigerator to help extend the shelf life of the product.
- Check the expiration date every time before using the eyeliner.
- Do not use expired, cracked, or damaged eyeliner.
Clean Eyeliner Pencils Regularly
- Use a mild, non-abrasive cleanser or wipe to remove buildup from the eyeliner pencil.
- Gently erase the guanine of the eyeliner pencil.
- Sanitize the eyeliner pencil with isopropyl alcohol or a disinfecting product.
- Let the eyeliner pencil dry for at least 10 minutes before using it.
Disinfect Eyeliner Liquid
- Pour a small amount of isopropyl alcohol into a bowl.
- Dip a cotton swab into the alcohol and then swab around the tip of the eyeliner liquid bottle.
- Discard the used swab and repeat the process until the bottle is completely clean.
- Let the eyeliner liquid dry before use.
5. Signifying When It is Safe to Reapply Eyeliner
Removing Eyeliner
If you are wondering if it is safe to reapply eyeliner, you first need to know how to correctly remove your eye makeup. A good way to do this is to grab a cotton pad and gently swipe it across the eye area. Use a makeup remover, preferably one that is free from sulfates and other harsh ingredients. This should effectively remove the residue. To finish it off, you can lightly massage a gentle cleanser into the area with your fingertips.
Allow Time to Recover
Once your eyes have been properly cleansed, you want to allow your skin to recover. Typically, giving it about 24 hours is a good idea. That way, the skin will be replenished and ready for a new layer of eye makeup. One hint – applying some aloe vera or coconut oil to the area can speed up the recovery.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes
- Invest in a gentle, makeup remover
- Give the area at least 24 hours to recover
- Massage aloe vera or coconut oil onto the area
Products to Avoid
When it comes to applying a new layer of eyeliner, you want to make sure you stay away from any harsh chemicals. Also, steer clear of products that contain alcohol or silicone. These ingredients can dry out the skin, thus leading to irritation. Natural, vegan products are your best bet.
6. Steps to Regain the Natural Look With Eyeliner
1. Choose the Right Color
The most important step to achieving the natural look with eyeliner is choosing the right color. You want to choose a color that is closest to your natural shade or one that slightly enhances your eye color. Avoid eyeliners that are too dark or too light as they can look unnatural and jarring.
2. Line Your Lashes
Once you have chosen the right color for your eyeliner, you can begin to line your lashes. Use a thin brush or pencil for more precise, thin lines. Start at the outer corner and work your way in, paying attention to create a slight curve up and towards the inner corner. This subtle curve will help open and lift your eyes.
3. Blend it Out
Once you have achieved the desired shape, it’s time to blend it out to give it a softer and more natural appearance. You can use a puffy beveled blending brush or your finger, whichever you are more comfortable with. Gradually work the color outward, avoiding harsh lines.
4. Finish With Mascara
Applying some mascara at the end will help to complete the look. Curl your eyelashes and apply the mascara from root to tip. You can apply one to two coats, depending on your preference. This step will also help to blend the eyeliner and mascara together, giving you a more cohesive and natural look. Here are a few additional tips for achieving natural eyeliner look:
- Apply eyeliner in short and quick strokes.
- Choose a matte formula eyeliner for a more natural look.
- Avoid liner on your waterline as it can draw attention to your eyes.
- Smoke it out with an eyeshadow for more drama.
7. Embracing Your New Look After Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery can be daunting, but the results are worth it. You are now on the path to better vision and living life with increased confidence. Here are a few tips for embracing your new look:
- Be Patient: It takes time for your brain to adjust to new vision. Give it time and you’ll be back on your feet soon.
- Stay Comfortable: It’s natural to feel a bit odd after your surgery. Take care of yourself and avoid strenuous activities for at least 24 hours after your surgery.
- Prepare For The Recovery: Make sure you pick up the medicines that your doctor prescribes and have supplies on hand for after-surgery care. Consult your doctor about dietary restrictions during the recovery period.
- Celebrate: You’ve just undergone an important step in improving your vision. Take the time to celebrate with your loved ones.
Cataract surgery can be intimidating, but also liberating. It can give you more independence and a sense of freedom that comes with being able to see clearly. You’ll note the difference right away and in time, you’ll be able to appreciate the full benefits of the eye surgery.
Above all, enjoy the beautiful world that’s waiting to be seen. Patients who have undergone surgery have often expressed feelings of joy and freedom in the newfound clarity they experience.
Your new look is waiting to be embraced, and now you are ready to take on the world with newfound confidence.
Eyeliner can be an amazing way to accentuate your natural beauty. After cataract surgery, your eyes will be returned to their former glory – so don’t forget your old makeup routines, because you can return to playing with beautiful colors with ease. Enjoy the beauty that comes from radiating and highlighting those shining eyes!