How to Clean Your Eye Area

Gently cleanse your eye area daily to maintain hygiene and prevent irritation. Follow these steps for a thorough yet delicate clean:

Wash your hands: This crucial first step prevents the transfer of germs to your sensitive eye area. Use warm water and soap, scrubbing thoroughly for at least 20 seconds. Dry your hands with a clean towel.
Remove makeup and contact lenses: Before cleaning, remove all eye makeup using a gentle makeup remover designed for the eye area. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before proceeding.

Cleaning Your Eyelids and Lashes

Warm compress (optional): A warm, damp compress can help soften any crusting or debris around your eyes, making cleaning easier. Apply for a few minutes. (See reference: ACVO Public - How to Clean Your Pet's Eyes)
Gentle cleansing: Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser, such as Dove, Oil of Olay, Neutrogena, or Cetaphil. (See reference: wikiHow - How to Clean Eyelids) Apply a small amount to a cotton pad or soft cloth, then gently wipe your eyelids and eyelashes. Avoid rubbing vigorously. For children and babies, use a soft cloth and gently wipe along the lashes with your finger while keeping their eyes closed. (See reference: YouTube video - How to clean the eyelids in children and babies)
Rinse (optional): You can gently rinse the area with lukewarm water after cleansing, but this isn’t always necessary.
Dry gently: Pat the area dry with a clean, soft towel. Avoid rubbing.

Regular cleansing: Cleanse your eye area every day, or as needed, especially after wearing eye makeup.
Clean tools: Always keep your makeup brushes and applicators clean to prevent bacterial growth.
Safe handling of eye products: Always keep the tips of eyedrop bottles clean and avoid touching them to your eyes. (See reference: Alberta Health Services - Pink Eye: Care Instructions)
Sun protection: Protect your delicate eye skin from the sun’s harmful rays by using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. (See reference: Healthline - Tips for Caring for the Skin Around Your Eyes)

Irritated eyes: If you experience any irritation or redness, stop using the cleanser and consult a doctor or ophthalmologist.
Eye infections: If you suspect an infection (pink eye, for example), consult a doctor immediately for proper treatment. A saline solution rinse may be recommended. (See references: Wag! - How to Clean a Dog's Eye Infection; Alberta Health Services - Pink Eye: Care Instructions)