10 Best Mascaras for Contact Lens Wearers

Mascara is a cosmetic used to enhance and define the eyelashes. In 2020, about 106.05 million women in the US used mascara, and experts expect the number to rise to 108.59 million by 2024.

Mascara is generally easy to apply but can be challenging for contact lens wearers. Mascara users should put contact lenses in before applying mascara, as mascara tends to smudge and stain the lenses. Because mascara enters the eye, contact lens wearers can experience eye irritation, discomfort, and possible infection. Hence, selecting the right mascara that provides comfort for contact lens wearers is essential.

To help those suffering from mascara smudges on their contacts, we curated a list of the 10 best mascaras for contact lens wearers. These mascaras can provide stunning eyelashes while ensuring a comfortable and irritation-free experience for their wearers.

Factors to Consider When Buying Mascaras

When choosing the right mascara for those wearing contact lenses, there are several important factors to consider. These factors ensure that the product effectively enhances the lashes and is safe and comfortable for the wearers. The factors to consider include:

Hypoallergenic and Ophthalmologist-Tested Formulations

A hypoallergenic mascara is formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. These products are typically gentler and less likely to irritate. Equally important are ophthalmologist-tested mascaras, which have been evaluated by eye care professionals for safety, particularly for those wearing contact lenses. Some mascaras are hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested, which is ideal, especially for sensitive eyes.

Water-Resistance

Water-resistant mascaras are designed to withstand minor tears or moisture, making them suitable for everyday wear. Water-resistant mascaras are often a good choice for those wearing contact lenses because they are less likely to flake or smudge, meaning fewer particles could potentially irritate the eyes or disturb the contact lenses.

Non-Irritating Ingredients and Easy Removal

Choosing mascaras that contain non-irritating ingredients is crucial, especially if the buyer has sensitive eyes or wears contact lenses. Avoid mascaras with harsh chemicals, strong fragrances, or fibers that could flake off and irritate the eyes. Some examples of dangerous ingredients that individuals should avoid in their mascaras are parabens, coal tar, carbon black, and allergenic waxes.

10 Best Mascaras for Contact Lens Wearers

Finding the right mascara for contact lens wearers is challenging and crucial. Here’s a list of the top 10 mascaras known for compatibility with contact lenses. We arranged them according to their benefits, cons, and customer reviews. The 10 best mascaras for contact lens wearers include:

The ILIA Fullest Volumizing mascara is a clean and volumizing mascara that is lightweight and easy to use for those seeking buildable volume. It wraps each last in weightless volume without being uncomfortable or heavy for the wearer, making it suitable for those wearing contact lenses. This clean mascara conditions lashes for a fuller, thicker look without flaking or smudging. A full size, containing 9.5 mL, is priced at $28 on Amazon, while the 4 mL option costs $14.

Pros

• Safe for sensitive eyes.
• Flake-free and smudge-proof.
• Cruelty-free and paraben-free.
• Hypoallergenic and Ophthalmologist-tested for safety.
• Contains Provitamin B5.

Cons

• May not be suitable for those looking for more dramatic effect on eyelashes.

This innovative 2-in-1 lash primer and volumizing mascara is perfect for those who want to enhance lash length in one go. Its gentle formula provides a rich, black color to each eyelash. It’s also free from harsh chemicals, making it great for sensitive skin. One bottle containing 0.27 fl oz is priced at $19.99, while its 3-pack option costs $46.99.

Pros

• Great for individuals with sensitive skin.
• It is cruelty-free, fragrance-free, and paraben-free.
• Ophthalmologist-tested for extra safety, and hypoallergenic.

Cons

• Some users may find the consistency too thick.

The Fifth & Skin Naturlash Mineral Mascara is best for individuals looking for longer and thicker lashes that look natural and beautiful. Its formulation aims to nourish the lashes while providing a voluminous look without any heaviness. Aside from that, it is easy to apply and remove. This mascara is one of the best hypoallergenic mascaras on the market and can also be used by those with dry eyes.

One bottle contains 0.32 oz, and its Black option is priced at $24.95 on Amazon, while brown costs $24.95.

Pros

• Thickens and lengthens lashes.
• Both are smudge-proof and water-resistant.
• Paraben-free, petroleum-free, and cruelty-free.
• Ophthalmologist-tested and hypoallergenic, safe for individuals with sensitive skin.

Cons

• Can feel slightly heavy for day-long wear.

Burt’s Bees Nourishing Mascara is a 100% natural mascara designed to lengthen and thicken lashes instantly. Its formula, enriched with Jojoba Oil and Glycerin, nourishes the lashes while being safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. The mascara applicator is easy to use and is pretty convenient for users. It’s priced at $12.91 on Amazon for a 0.4 ounce pack of one, and it’s available in two colors: black brown and classic black.

Pros

• Has a 100% natural formula.
• Contains ingredients that nourish the lashes.
• Ophthalmologist-tested.
• Affordable and budget-friendly.
• Paraben-free and synthetic fragrance-free.

Cons

• May not provide the dramatic effect wanted.
• May not last long and be water-resistant.

The lash Idole waterproof mascara offers fanned-out volume with up to 24 hours of wear. The design makes it clump-free and easy to apply. It also has a wand intended to capture every lash. The wand has a curved shape with 360 micro bristles of different sizes. Its full size containing 0.27 fl oz is priced at $30 on Amazon, while its travel size is $16

Pros

• Gives clump-free lashes.
• Waterproof and lightweight.
• Has Tea tree extract to nourish the lashes.
• Hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested.

Cons

• A bit on the pricey side.

Blinc amplified tubing mascara’s advanced formula provides the lashes with glossy, and volumizing coats that form water-resistant “tubes” around the lash. The formulation also allows multiple coatings to achieve its desired intensity. Wearers can reapply the mascara after drying up for more build-up. Most importantly, it is easy to remove using warm water and gentle pressure. The mascara slides off as tubes without leaving black residue or tint. It's priced at $26 on Amazon for a pack of 1, containing 0.30 fl oz, and comes in 2 colors - black and brown.

Pros

• Smudge-proof and sweat-proof.
• Water-resistant and flake-proof.
• Ideal for individuals who do sports and for long periods of use.
• Hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested.

Cons

• Higher price point compared to others.

Maybelline Full ‘n soft mascara is enriched with Vitamin E, offering nourishment and thickness for the lashes. Its formula makes it lovable to those who want full, thick eyelashes that remain soft for hours. It has a quick-dissolve system that allows easy removal, preventing the lashes from falling out. It’s priced at $9.99 on Amazon for a pack of one containing 0.28 fl oz.

Pros

• Water-resistant but clump-free.
• Flake-free and smudge-proof.
• Available in different shades.
• Affordable for many.
• Hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested.

Cons

• May not provide the most natural look for lashes.

This vegan-friendly mascara is specially formulated for sensitive eyes. The Tower 28 Makewaves vegan mascara has a triple-wave wand with three flexible bands that lengthen and define each lash. Its lightweight formula allows users to build up their mascara without getting clumpy. Most importantly, it's safe for sensitive skin and free from harmful chemicals. It is priced at $20 on Amazon for a pack of one that contains 0.29 fl oz.

Pros

• Lightweight and clump-free.
• Non-toxic and cruelty-free.
• Suitable for individuals with sensitive skin.
• Ophthalmologist-tested and non-irritating.

Cons

• Multiple layers may be needed to get intense results.

Neutrogena Healthy Lengths Mascara is designed to significantly lengthen lashes. Its formula is enriched with Vitamin E and Olive Oil, which nourishes and strengthens lashes from within. The formula also includes Rice Protein, which has been proven to double lash length in consumer testing. This mascara has a gentle bristle brush that combs through each lash. It is priced at $7.47 for a pack of one on Amazon containing 0.21 oz. It comes in three colors - carbon black, black, and brown.

Pros

• Lengthens and nourishes lashes.
• Contains vitamin E, olive oil, and rice protein.
• Ophthalmologist and dermatologist tested.
• Clump-free and smudge-proof.

Cons

• May not provide wanted volume.

The endlessly beautiful all-natural mascara priced at $21 on Amazon is all-natural and caters to those with allergies or sensitive eyes. Its vegan-friendly and moisturizing formula ensures a smooth application and a smooth finish without clumping. Its ingredients include vitamin E, chamomile, and coffee powder that helps nourish the lashes.

Pros

• Vegan, and cruelty-free.
• Free from harmful chemicals.
• Safe for sensitive skin.

Cons

• May not be as water-resistant as other mascaras.

Applying Mascara While Wearing Contact Lenses

Putting on mascara while wearing contact lenses requires careful steps to ensure eye safety and comfort. Here's a step-by-step guide to help apply mascara correctly and avoid any irritation:

Step 1: Wash Hands Properly

Users should start by washing their hands thoroughly to remove dirt or bacteria, reducing the risk of eye irritation or infection.

Step 2: Insert the Lenses

Individuals must insert their contact lenses before applying makeup to minimize the chances of contaminating them with makeup residue.

Step 3: Mascara Wand Preparation

To avoid clumps and flakes, it's important to gently remove excess mascara from the wand. To do this, lightly wipe the wand on the tube's edge.

Step 4: Applying the Mascara

When applying mascara, individuals should look in the mirror to ensure precision. Lift the eyelashes by looking up and gently applying mascara from the base to tip in a zigzag motion to separate lashes and avoid clumps. Mascara should not be applied on the lower lashes because the eyes tend to tear up more with contact lenses, leading to the mascara on the bottom lashes washing off.

Step 5: Allow the Mascara to Dry

Allow the mascara to dry before applying more for the second layer. This prevents mascara from flaking and falling off the eyes.

If users experience discomfort or irritation, they should immediately stop the application, remove the lens, and clean their eyes. If the eye's condition worsens, individuals should seek professional help from an eye specialist. The eyes' health should always be the top priority when using cosmetics like mascara.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right mascara for contact lens wearers is now easy due to our curated list. Buyers should always prioritize hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist-tested products composed of non-irritating ingredients. These features ensure the mascara will enhance the user's eyelashes and safeguard their eye health.

The ILIA Fullest Volumizing Mascara is an example of a mascara that is best for contact lens wearers. Its volumizing formula, suitability for sensitive eyes, and ophthalmologist-tested certification rank it highly among other options. It can provide weightless volume and nourishment to the lashes without causing irritation or smudging.

Remember to maintain cleanliness and apply the mascara carefully to avoid eye problems. Contact lens wearers can enjoy beautiful lashes and healthy eyes by choosing the right product and following proper application techniques.

FAQs on the Best Mascara for Contact Lens Wearers

How often should I replace my mascara to ensure it's safe for use with contact lenses?

It is recommended that mascara be replaced every 2-3 months to avoid bacterial build-up, which can be harmful, especially for contact lens wearers. Also, make sure that it is not expired before use.

Is waterproof mascara suitable for contact lens wearers?

While contact lens wearers can use waterproof mascara, removing it is generally more challenging and may cause irritation. Water-resistant formulas are a better choice.

How can smudging of mascara be prevented for contact lens wearers?

Opt for smudge-proof and water-resistant mascaras. Also, avoid rubbing the eyes to prevent smudging onto lenses.

What ingredients should be avoided in the best mascara for contact lens wearers?

Contact lens wearers should steer clear of mascaras with fibers, heavy perfumes, or irritating chemicals to avoid potential eye discomfort. The best mascaras for contact lens wearers usually do not have these ingredients.