How soon can I wear makeup after laser eye surgery?
Laser eye surgery offers the freedom of clear vision without glasses or contacts. But if you regularly wear makeup, you might wonder how soon you can get back to your routine. The answer depends on the type of makeup, the stage of healing, and your surgeon’s advice.
Why makeup matters after surgery
Makeup can introduce bacteria or small particles into the healing eye. Even a tiny bit of mascara or eyeliner can irritate the cornea or increase the risk of infection. That’s why your surgeon will advise you to wait before applying eye products.
The first 24–48 hours
Immediately after surgery, focus on rest. During the first two days:
- Avoid makeup completely
- Use prescribed drops as instructed
- Do not touch or rub your eyes.
This period is critical for early healing.
Eye makeup guidelines
For products like mascara, eyeliner, or eyeshadow:
- Wait at least one to two weeks before using them
- Use new or freshly cleaned products to avoid contamination
- Apply makeup carefully, avoiding direct contact with the lash line.
Face makeup guidelines
Foundation, concealer, or powder are less risky, but still require caution:
- You may be able to apply light face makeup after 3–4 days
- Avoid the area around your eyes until your surgeon approves
- Always remove makeup gently with clean cotton pads and oil-free removers.
Long-term precautions
Even after you return to makeup:
- Avoid waterproof mascara, as it requires rubbing to remove
- Replace mascara and eyeliner every 3 months to reduce bacteria buildup
- Never share makeup with others
- Always wash hands before application.
Why timing is important
The eye surface is especially sensitive after laser surgery. Rushing back to makeup too soon may cause:
- Infection
- Delayed healing
- Blurred vision or discomfort
It’s always better to wait a little longer than to risk complications.
Conclusion
Most patients can return to face makeup within a few days and eye makeup within 1–2 weeks, depending on healing. Always follow your surgeon’s advice and put safety first.
Want to know if laser eye surgery is right for you? Take our quick suitability self-test today.
POUVEZ-VOUS BÉNÉFICIER D'UNE CORRECTION DE LA VUE AU LASER?
It isn’t suitable for everyone.
The first step is to book an assessment so you can find out whether you can benefit.
NOS PROCÉDURES LES PLUS POPULAIRES
Ce que disent nos patients…
"Très bonne expérience, tout s'est bien passé de mon côté. Accueil chaleureux, des explications claires et un travail impeccable, y'a rien à redire mis à part vous encourager d'y aller si vous souhaitez vous faire opérer !"
iMiGo11""Très bon centre.
À chacune de mes visites, le personnel était très rassurant, accueillant, professionnel et à l'écoute. Je suis ravi des résultats 3 mois après l'opération et ne peut que les recommander.""
KIRAN SINGH""Excellente prise en charge tout au long des RDV, de la 1ère consultation jusqu'à l'opération et aux contrôles post-opératoires. Personnel très accueillants et donnant des explications claires. Un grand merci"."
Raphael StrgarNous avons remplacé les images des patients réels qui ont fourni ces témoignages afin de protéger leur vie privée.
