Sleeping in her makeup is arguably one of the most relatable things Lopez has ever done, and on one hand, I love that she’s showing a more casual side of herself. On the other, I’m wincing a little. Sleeping in eye makeup can be a recipe for ocular disaster because the area is sensitive and prone to irritation. That irritation can lead to more serious issues, including “contact dermatitis, dry skin, hyperpigmentation, and issues on the lid margin such as blepharitis [an eye condition that causes itchy, burning eyes or lids],“ according to New York-based, board-certified optometrist Jennifer Tsai, OD.
Additionally, “Sleeping with eye makeup can cause buildup of bacteria on the lid margin and lead to clogging of the meibomian glands,” Dr. Tsai says. “These glands are critical to produce oil as part of your tear film, and if they become clogged, this eventually leads to dry eyes.” New York-based board-certified ophthalmologist Ashley Brissette, MD, seconds this and regales to Allure how much worse things can get if makeup travels into your eye overnight. It can “lead to irritation and scratches, or even infections,” she explains.
Because the eye area is sensitive, both doctors recommend using gentle cleansers, particularly micellar water, makeup removers, and cleansing balms, to remove eye makeup.
Many can probably relate to J.Lo sleeping in her makeup, even if you look less glamorous than her when you do it (I know I do). But don’t forgo your nightly cleanse even if your bed is calling your name; sacrificing a few minutes of sleep is better than dealing with an eye infection later.
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