Caution Advised on Cosmetics Use

Turkish Ophthalmological Society (TOD) has warned women that makeup products must not come into contact with the eyes. Reminding that coronavirus can be transmitted through the eyes, TOD stated: "Do not share makeup products, and if possible, avoid eye area makeup for a while." In the coronavirus outbreak, given that the eyes are one of the most important transmission routes, eye hygiene is gaining even greater importance. Prof. Dr. Ferda Çiftçi, Head of the Oculoplastic Surgery Unit at the Turkish Ophthalmological Society representing Turkish eye doctors, stated that hygiene is more important than ever, particularly in facial makeup applied by women.

Makeup causes excessive facial contact

"Research shows that eye transmission in coronavirus is quite common," said Prof. Dr. Ferda Çiftçi, adding "For this reason, we should minimize contact between our hands and our eyes and face. Especially the makeup that our women apply around the eye area can pose a risk during this period."

Prof. Çiftçi recommended the following precautions if makeup must be applied:

• Do not share your makeup products with anyone. Shared use is always risky.
• Apply makeup in sterile conditions and always wash your hands beforehand.
• Do not use old or long-stored makeup products. They can cause bacterial risks.
• Do not apply liquid makeup products to your eyelashes during this period.
• Use eye pencil, eyebrow pencil, eyeshadow and other eye and eye area makeup products with great care. If possible, avoid eye and eye area makeup for a while.
• Do not use false eyelashes during this period.
• Be very careful that makeup products do not come into contact with the eye or eye mucosa. Avoid eye contact when removing makeup as well.
• If you wear contact lenses, insert the lens first and then apply makeup. When removing them, clean your makeup first and then remove the contact lens. Both when inserting and removing, always wash your hands before touching the lens.

Let us show the care we give to our beauty to our health

Prof. Dr. Ferda Çiftçi, Head of the Oculoplastic Surgery Unit at the Turkish Ophthalmological Society, reminded that Covid-19 virus is transmitted to the body through three routes: the mouth, nose and eyes, stating "We appreciate the care and attention our women show themselves. But more than ever, during this period, we want you to show the same care and attention to your health that you show to your beauty."