Canada’s Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has dedicated its 79th issue of Contact Lens Update to the effects of cosmetics and cosmetic treatments on the eye.  

Discussing the cosmetic products and procedures practitioners may encounter – eyelash extensions and serums, tattooing the eyelid to mimic eyeliner, and the use of retinoids to improve facial skin appearance – the issue’s editorial is authored by Quebec optometrist Dr Claudine Courey. She discusses the associated ocular complications and provides practical advice on patient counselling. 

The popularity of social media means that beauty products are promoted to a worldwide audience like never before, said Jill Woods, head of clinical research at CORE. “Positive product reviews or the recommendation of a beauty influencer spread like wildfire. However, most people often do not consider how their cosmetic choices could negatively impact their eyes before clicking ‘Add to Cart’.” 

The issue’s downloadable practitioner handout offers tips to start conversations that address the effect of cosmetics on ocular health, with communication methods to elevate patient understanding and compliance. 

“We further elevate our role as eyecare practitioners when educating our patients about how different cosmetics or procedures impact their eyes,” said Woods. “Having different treatment options to manage problems helps ensure optimal eye health.” 

The findings of a study investigating the prevalence of dry eye symptoms in a group of Saudi Arabian women using eye cosmetics is the subject of an article authored by the University of Waterloo’s Associate Professor Alison Ng. Her overview explores the frequency and type of products the women applied and the severity of their symptoms, assessed with a validated dry eye questionnaire. 

Ontario optometrist Dr Mahsa Raeisi Ardali discusses an American Academy of Optometry case report on a patient who underwent keratopigmentation (eye tattooing) to permanently change their eye colour. Dr Ardali’s piece details the proposed dry eye management routine and outlines the complications associated with the procedure.  

The publication is available at no charge by visiting ContactLensUpdate.com.