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Online Exclusive | Mar/Apr '22

When Cosmetics and Ophthalmology Collide

The line between cosmetics and ophthalmology continues to blur. We have Botox for crow’s feet, pharmaceutical agents to lift the eyelids (Upneeq, RVL Pharmaceuticals) and brighten the whites of the eyes (Lumify, Bausch + Lomb), and drops to spare presbyopia patients from wearing reading glasses that make them feel older (Vuity, Allergan). More and more, patients are concerned about the appearance of their eyes; they are bothered by redness and fine lines, and they wish their eyes looked more refreshed.

It is well known that dry eye and blepharitis affect a significant portion of the population and are common reasons for visits to eye care professionals. Makeup debris, pollution, and allergens in the environment also build up on the eyelids and eyelashes and further contribute to irritating eye symptoms. Many people do not seek care for these conditions but instead turn to poorly regulated cosmetic-grade products for use around the eyes.

AVAILABLE PRODUCTS FALL SHORT

The human body has a natural relationship with bacteria on the lids and lashes. However, an overgrowth of bacteria can produce biofilm, a polysaccharide layer that accumulates and leads to inflammation that manifests as redness, irritation, pain, itching, and more. Daily cleansing can help keep this at bay.

Eyelid cleansing is not just for those with eye symptoms. We are taught from a young age to brush our teeth for oral health, and we should adopt a similar preventative mentality for maintaining eye health. Taking care to cleanse around the eyelids and lashes daily will ensure that the eyes are bright and comfortable and will prevent damage caused by chronic inflammation and infection. I strongly encourage all eye care professionals to talk to their patients about lid hygiene to prevent symptoms from developing.

Mainstream cosmetic products contain ingredients that can be harmful to the ocular surface and delicate eyelid skin. For example, cosmetic-grade eye makeup removers contain harsh ingredients that strip away natural oils and can leave the skin dry and irritated. Patients often ask about the use of cosmetic products around the eyes, and in the past I did not feel satisfied with what was on the market. This got me thinking, would it be possible to create a product that achieves the three main objectives—(1) cleansing the eyelids and lashes effectively and safely, (2) removing makeup, and (3) hydrating the skin—all at once?

ENTER, EYE REVIVE

So began my quest to create a hero product that would revolutionize the space by existing between cosmetic and medical-grade products for use around the eyes, being effective yet safe for everyday use, and being designed for individuals of all genders and ages. I worked with a certified organic lab to create a novel product, and, after 15 rounds of revisions, Eye Revive (Daily Practice) was born. Eye Revive is a 3-in-1 foam cleanser that cleanses, removes makeup and pollutant debris, and hydrates the delicate eyelid skin (Figure). It includes ingredients that contain fruit extract antioxidants (citrullus lanatis + pyrus malus), vitamin B complexes, naturally occurring moisturizers (sodium PCA), and a gentle antimicrobial (xylityl sesquicaprylate).

Figure. Eye Revive is a 3-in-1 foam cleanser that cleanses, removes makeup and pollutant debris, and hydrates the delicate eyelid skin.

I am actively working to expand the product offering for more skin care products that are clinically tested and safe for use around the eyes. Brand integrity is extremely important to me, so the product is made in the United States and packaged and shipped using only post-consumer recycled materials. Daily Practice Eye Care also gives back to the eye care community through charitable donations, as a portion of all proceeds goes to foundations for fighting blindness.

CASE REPORT

A 36-year-old woman presents with bilateral ocular irritation and redness. She is extremely concerned about the appearance of her eyes, and she states that they get red and glassy, especially toward the end of the day. She finds that air quality (pollution and allergens) also affect her eyes. She wears makeup daily, uses topical retinol close to the eyes, and sometimes falls asleep without washing her face. When she removes her makeup, she uses cosmetic wipes but finds that the wiping action irritates her eyelids and dries out the skin around her eyes. She is also concerned about the amount of waste these single-use wipes produce.

We discussed the importance of proper lid care, which includes removing eye makeup each evening and avoiding the eye area when applying topical retinols (and considering decreasing their frequency of use). She was intolerant to many over-the-counter makeup removers and noted having sensitive eyes and skin. We discussed that pulling on the eyelids to remove the makeup was contributing to chronic irritation. I recommended that she try Eye Revive by Daily Practice, an easy-to-use foam cleanser that, when activated by water, gently and effectively removes makeup and pollutant debris on the lids and lashes. The product aligned with her values on decreasing single-use products, as all packaging is from recycled materials and a portion of proceeds goes toward vision-related charities.

Author’s note: Patients can access Eye Revive and more information at www.dailypractice.com. Eye care professionals who are interested in ordering product (at discount) for sale at their practice or joining Daily Practice’s affiliate marketing can reach out to info@dailypractice.com.

author
Ashley Brissette, MD, FRCSC