Eyes Spotlight: The Importance of Eyes in Storytelling

If you have ever encountered advice suggesting that you should steer clear of using eye makeup due to issues like dry eyes, blepharitis, or discomfort linked to contact lenses, you can undoubtedly relate to the irritation such recommendations can create. Makeup serves as a vital means of self-expression for many people, and being advised to abandon it entirely can feel like losing an important part of one's identity.

This sentiment is the driving force behind the innovative creation of Eyes Are the Story.

Uncover the Revolutionary Concept of Eyes Are the Story

Eyes Are the Story is trailblazing as the world's first-ever optocosmetics brand, setting a groundbreaking standard within the beauty industry. Founded by Amy Gallant Sullivan, the Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Tear Film and Ocular Surface Society (TFOS), and the daughter of Dr Donald R. Korb, a renowned researcher in the domain of dry eye, this progressive brand is deeply rooted in the principles of ocular surface science.

This is not merely another beauty brand that hastily labels its products as suitable for “sensitive eyes.” Every formula is crafted with meticulous attention to eye health as the primary focus, rather than treating it merely as a compliance checkbox during the development process.

Recognising the Pressing Need for This Innovative Cosmetic Category

The extent of the challenges related to eye health and cosmetics is far greater than most people realise. Over 90% of women under the age of 55 routinely use cosmetics, with more than half of girls as young as 12 reporting the use of mascara, a product notorious for its adverse effects on the ocular surface. Furthermore, the male grooming market is expanding rapidly, indicating that these issues are not confined to any particular demographic.

The TFOS Lifestyle Report on the effects of cosmetics on the ocular surface has confirmed what eye care professionals have long suspected: conventional cosmetic ingredients can harm meibomian glands, corneal, and conjunctival cells. These detrimental substances disrupt the ocular microbiome, exacerbate dry eye symptoms, and increase the risk of infections.

For patients currently undergoing treatment for dry eye or ocular surface diseases, the implications can be significant. Traditional makeup can inadvertently undermine the effectiveness of leading therapies such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) between appointments. Many patients find themselves confused as to why they continue to experience dry eyes despite receiving excellent clinical care, often discovering that the products they use daily contribute to their ongoing discomfort.

How Does Eyes Are the Story Comply with Cosmetic Safety Regulations?

In the United States, only 11 cosmetic ingredients are prohibited, whereas the European Union has banned over 1,300. Numerous mainstream beauty products exploit these regulatory loopholes, prioritising compliance over safety.

Eyes Are the Story has successfully obtained approval in over 30 countries across Europe, the United States, and beyond, by exceeding compliance standards rather than merely adhering to them.

What Distinguishes Eyes Are the Story From Other Cosmetic Brands?

This brand consciously avoids what it refers to as the Top 10 Nasties—ingredients that are most likely to damage the ocular surface. These substances encompass:

• Formaldehyde and its donors: preservatives that gradually release formaldehyde, irritating the eye surface with prolonged exposure.
• Isopropyl cloprostenate: commonly found in lash growth mascaras, associated with changes in iris colour and darkening of the eyelids.
• Fragrance: a leading cause of allergic reactions to cosmetics, often inadequately disclosed on product labels.
• Benzalkonium chloride: a preservative harmful to corneal and conjunctival cells, frequently present in eye drops and cosmetics.
• Retinols and Retin A: active components that can penetrate the tear film, causing irritation to the ocular surface.
• Parabens: linked to disruptions in the ocular microbiome with prolonged use.
• Phenoxyethanol: a preservative that can lead to irritation and toxicity on the ocular surface.
• Salicylic acid: an exfoliant that should be avoided near the periocular skin and tear film.
• Tea tree oil: beneficial for treating demodex under clinical supervision, yet harmful when incorporated into cosmetics applied daily to the eyelids.
• Argireline: a peptide found in anti-aging products that can pose risks for the delicate tissues surrounding the eyes.

Every formula created by Eyes Are the Story is completely devoid of all ten of these harmful ingredients.

Discover the Tangible Advantages of Choosing Eyes Are the Story Products

For eye care professionals, this brand serves as a valuable extension of their clinical care. As consultant ophthalmic and oculoplastic surgeon Dr Rachna Murthy notes:

“Patients expect optimal surgical outcomes and minimal recovery time. With Eyes Are the Story, I can prepare patients for public appearances within days. I have also observed significant improvements in conditions such as rosacea and sensitive eye issues even before commencing additional treatments.”

This innovative approach transforms daily beauty routines into a critical aspect of ocular wellness for patients. Just as regular tooth brushing promotes oral health, using products designed to protect the periocular area mitigates cumulative damage over time and enhances the effectiveness of any existing treatments they are undertaking.

Explore the Comprehensive Range of Products Offered by Eyes By Design

We are delighted to introduce a selection of three essential products from the Eyes Are the Story collection:

• Eye Proof Liquid Liner: a smooth, long-lasting liquid liner that will not flake into your eyes. Formulated without the Top 10 Nasties, it is safe for contact lens wearers and individuals with sensitive eyes.
• Eye Proof Facial Cleanser: a gentle gel cleanser that effectively removes eye makeup without stripping the delicate periocular skin. This cleanser can function both as a daily wash and a makeup remover, preserving the natural balance of the skin and surrounding tissues.
• Eye Proof Facial Serum: a lightweight serum specifically formulated for the sensitive skin around the eye area. It offers hydration without introducing any ingredients that may migrate into the tear film or cause irritation.
• Eye Proof Eyeshadow: featuring six velvety, high-pigment shades that deliver vibrant, blendable colour without relying on harmful ingredients commonly found in traditional eyeshadows. Experience all the flair without compromising ocular surface health.
• Mascara Trio Set: a flake-free formula that strengthens and volumises lashes while actively preventing bacterial growth within the product. This mini set is perfect for trial or convenient on-the-go use.

Who Benefits from Using Eyes Are the Story Products?

Eyes Are the Story is particularly advantageous for individuals who:

• Have been diagnosed with dry eye or blepharitis: especially in situations where standard makeup has worsened symptoms.
• Wear contact lenses: and are facing discomfort, irritation, or sensitivity related to makeup application.
• Are recovering from surgery: including procedures such as LASIK, cataract surgery, or oculoplastic surgeries where the ocular surface is especially vulnerable.
• Are receiving ongoing ocular surface treatment: anyone undergoing IPL, LLLT, or other dry eye therapies who wishes to maintain their treatment results between appointments.
• Experience reactive or sensitive eyes: that struggle with common allergens like fragrance, preservatives, or other typical cosmetic ingredients. Explore our article on makeup for sensitive eyes for further insights.

Fostering a Harmonious Relationship Between Beauty and Eye Health

No one should ever have to compromise their desired appearance for the sake of their eye health. Eyes Are the Story is founded on the belief that beauty and ocular wellness can coexist seamlessly, a principle supported by extensive research in ocular surface science.

Explore the complete range of Eyes Are the Story products available at Eyes By Design, or consult with our optometrists to identify which products are best suited to your eye health needs.