It’s impossible to resist the boost of confidence long, voluminous lashes give you. Hence, it’s no wonder that mascara has become a staple in many beauty lovers’ makeup routines.
In recent years, more and more waterproof mascara formulas that promise an all-day lift have graced the market. But could it all have detrimental effects on your lashes and even your health?
Keep reading to find out why many eye experts are discouraging the use of waterproof mascara, along with healthier alternatives for a similar look.
Worsens Symptoms of Dry Eyes and Sensitivity
It starts with the ingredients in the waterproof formula. Despite the fame and appreciation makeup lovers have shown for their holy grail waterproof mascaras, experts have long been vocal about the issues caused by waterproof mascaras.
Take Dr Jacqueline Beltz, who can instantly tell if her patient is a waterproof mascara user by examining their eye condition. According to Dr. Beltz, the properties and ingredients that give waterproof mascara its long-lasting, budge-proof reputation commonly bring a host of issues along with them.
Many quick-drying mascaras are formulated with alcohol, which can contribute to feelings of dryness and sensitivity. “They have a lot of drying qualities because you need the mascara to dry and stay on your lashes, but it can also dry out your tear film.”
May Weaken Lashes
It may seem counterintuitive, as regular use of waterproof mascara for longer, fuller lashes could cause them to fall off.
Waterproof mascara’s infamous difficulty to remove is known by all who’ve used it. “It’s obviously just harder to get off. You need more rubbing that can be really irritating if you have sensitive eyes,” Dr Beltz explains.
Ophthalmologist Dr Rupa Wong has a similar anti-waterproof mascaras stance. “They’re difficult to remove and cause a lot of lash loss when doing so.”
Blocks Oil Glands
If visible lash loss wasn’t a problem, invisible problems unseen by the eye could be stirring up trouble with meibomian glands on your eyelids, which produce oils to keep your eyes moist and comfortable.
Chemicals in tiny mascara particles can build up at the base of your eyelashes and clog the openings of meibomian glands. Over time, this buildup can stop the natural oils from flowing properly.
Without this protective oil layer in your tears, your eyes are more likely to be inflamed or uncomfortable. In some cases, blocked glands can become infected, leading to more serious eye issues like dryness, itchiness, and irritation.
If you often struggle with dry eyes, it may be time to give your lashes a break and put the mascara down.
Alternatives for Waterproof Mascara
For lashes that need to stay lifted through rain or shine, there may be healthier alternatives that won’t put your health at risk.
Tubing Mascara
Tubing mascaras are a gentler alternative to waterproof formulas, ideal for those with sensitive eyes or fragile lashes. Instead of coating lashes with traditional waxes or oils, tubing mascaras wrap each lash in tiny water-resistant “tubes” that stay put all day without smudging or flaking.
The best part? They remove easily with just warm water and gentle pressure, so no harsh rubbing or makeup remover is needed. This makes them the next best option for anyone looking to avoid lash damage and irritation often caused by waterproof mascaras.
Tartelette™ Tubing – Mascara
Tartelette™ Tubing Mascara features a 24-hour, smudge-proof formula that volumises, lengthens, and curls with zero flaking. Using micro-tubing tech, it wraps each lash for a false lash effect without clumping.
Formulated with shea butter and castor oil to nourish and support lash growth, it wears all day and removes easily with warm water.
Tartelette™ Tubing – Mascara retails for S$42 (8ml) and is available on Sephora.
KVD Beauty Full Sleeve Long Defined Tubing Mascara
KVD Beauty’s Full Sleeve Long Defined Tubing Mascara uses 24-hour Tattoo Tubing Technology to wrap each lash in smudge-resistant, flake-proof sleeves for bold length, lift, and definition.
The contoured wand and filigree bristles ensure easy, clump-free application and a fanned-out finish. It’s long-wearing yet removes effortlessly with warm water, making this a perfect match for sensitive eyes.
KVD Beauty Full Sleeve Long Defined Tubing Mascara retails for S$40 (11ml) and is available on Sephora.
Lash Lifts
Lash lifts have been gaining popularity due to the convenience they offer. This affordable and quick treatment lifts and curls the lashes, with results lasting between six to eight weeks. Some lash lift artists also provide tinting, which darkens the lashes for a fuller appearance.
The outcome? Enjoy 24/7 lifted and curled lashes. This service saves time in your morning routine and enhances the beauty of your natural lashes without the need for false lashes, extensions, or mascara.
