Eyes Spotlight: The Importance of Eyes in Storytelling

If you have ever been advised to avoid using eye makeup due to concerns such as dry eyes, blepharitis, or discomfort related to contact lenses, you can undoubtedly relate to the frustration that such recommendations may evoke. Makeup is a vital avenue for self-expression for many individuals, and being told to abandon it entirely can feel like losing a vital aspect of one’s identity.

This profound sentiment has inspired the birth of Eyes Are the Story.

Uncover the Innovative Philosophy Behind Eyes Are the Story

Eyes Are the Story is pioneering as the world’s first-ever optocosmetics brand, establishing a revolutionary benchmark 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 daughter of the esteemed Dr Donald R. Korb, a prominent researcher in the realm of dry eye, this brand is firmly anchored in the principles of ocular surface science.

This is far more than just another beauty label hastily labelling its products as suitable for “sensitive eyes.” Every formula is painstakingly crafted with eye health as the predominant focus, rather than merely checking a compliance box during the development process.

Explore the Critical Necessity for This Innovative Cosmetic Category

The magnitude of the challenges surrounding eye health and cosmetics is more significant than most individuals understand. More than 90% of women below the age of 55 routinely utilise cosmetics, with over half of girls as young as 12 reporting the use of mascara, a product known to adversely affect the ocular surface. Furthermore, the expanding male grooming market indicates that these concerns are not confined to a specific demographic.

The TFOS Lifestyle Report, which investigates the effects of cosmetics on the ocular surface, has corroborated what eye care professionals have long suspected: traditional cosmetic ingredients can be detrimental to meibomian glands, corneal, and conjunctival cells. These harmful 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 profound. Conventional makeup can inadvertently undermine the efficacy of leading therapies such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) between appointments. Many patients find it perplexing 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 persistent discomfort.

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

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

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

What Sets Eyes Are the Story Apart from Other Cosmetic Brands?

The brand intentionally avoids what it refers to as the Top 10 Nasties—ingredients most likely to harm the ocular surface. These substances include:

• 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 found in eye drops and cosmetics.
• Retinols and Retin A: active components that can penetrate the tear film and irritate the ocular surface.
• Parabens: linked to disruptions in the ocular microbiome with prolonged use.
• Phenoxyethanol: a preservative that may 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 included in 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 Benefits of Choosing Eyes Are the Story Products

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

“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, utilising 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 thrilled to present 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 provides 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 Most 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 instances where standard makeup has exacerbated symptoms.
• Wear contact lenses: and are experiencing 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 particularly 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 sacrifice their desired appearance for the sake of their eye health. Eyes Are the Story is founded on the principle that beauty and ocular wellness can coexist seamlessly, a belief underpinned 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 most suitable for your eye health needs.