How to Get Makeup Off Contacts: Tips Plus FAQs (2025)

You’re getting ready for the day—your makeup is on point, your contacts are in, and then… smudged mascara or foundation somehow makes its way onto your lenses.

Suddenly, your vision is blurry, your eyes feel irritated, and you’re stuck trying to clean your contacts without making things worse.

Sound familiar?

Makeup and contacts don’t always get along, but that doesn’t mean you have to choose between clear vision and flawless makeup.

Whether you’re dealing with cloudy lenses or just want to prevent smudges in the first place, this guide will walk you through how to get makeup off contacts, plus what to do if they get dirty.

Contact lenses and makeup don’t always mix, and it usually comes down to tiny particles and residue. No matter how careful you are, makeup can transfer in a few ways:

• Blinking spreads product – Every time you blink, your lashes and eyelids move against your contacts. If you’re wearing mascara, eyeliner, or even shimmery eyeshadow, tiny flakes can end up on your lenses.
• Oily or creamy formulas move around – Foundations, concealers, and eye creams with rich, oily textures can break down and migrate toward your eyes throughout the day, coating your lenses with a blurry film.
• Applying makeup after inserting contacts – If you’re not careful, powdery eyeshadows, setting sprays, or even your own fingers can transfer makeup onto your lenses while applying or touching up your makeup.
• Removing makeup incorrectly – Rubbing your eyes while taking off makeup can smudge residue directly onto your lenses, making them cloudy or uncomfortable.

Makeup that can get on your contacts

Some makeup products are more likely to cause issues than others. Here are the main offenders:

• Mascara – Flaky, fiber, or waterproof mascaras can shed tiny particles that stick to your contact lenses. These flakes can blur your vision or cause discomfort.
• Eyeliner – Applying eyeliner too close to your lash line, especially on the waterline (tightlining), increases the chance of smudging or transferring product onto your contacts.
• Powder eyeshadow – Loose, shimmery, or highly pigmented eyeshadows tend to create fallout, which can settle on your lenses and cause irritation.
• Creamy foundations and concealers – Oil-based formulas can slowly migrate toward your eyes, coating your contacts with a greasy film that makes vision blurry.
• Setting sprays – Some setting sprays contain alcohol or fine powders that can leave a residue on your contact lenses, leading to discomfort or dryness.

Avoiding makeup residue in the first place is way better than having to look up how to get makeup off contacts after the fact. The good news? A few simple habits can help keep your lenses clean and your vision clear:

• Insert your contacts before applying makeup – This keeps makeup from transferring onto your lenses while you’re getting ready.
• Use oil-free and water-based products – Avoid creamy or greasy formulas that can break down and migrate into your eyes.
• Choose smudge-proof and flake-free mascara – Look for mascaras labeled as tubing or ophthalmologist-tested to minimize fallout.
• Apply eyeliner outside the lash line – Tightlining (lining the waterline) increases the risk of product transferring to your contacts. Stick to applying eyeliner just above the lash line instead.
• Tap off excess eyeshadow – Before applying powder eyeshadow, gently tap your brush to remove excess product and minimize fallout.
• Keep your hands clean – If you need to adjust your contacts during the day, wash your hands first to avoid smudging makeup onto them.
• Remove makeup carefully – Take out your contacts before using makeup remover to prevent oils and residue from coating your lenses.

Risks of wearing makeup with contacts

Wearing makeup with contacts is usually safe, but when makeup gets onto your lenses, it can cause more than just blurry vision. Here are a few risks to watch out for:

• Eye irritation and discomfort – Even tiny amounts of makeup on your contacts can make your eyes feel scratchy, dry, or irritated. This is especially common with mascara flakes and eyeliner smudges.
• Infections – Bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments like your eyes. If makeup transfers to your contacts and isn’t cleaned properly, it can increase the risk of eye infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye).
• Allergic reactions – Some makeup products contain fragrances, preservatives, or harsh chemicals that can trigger redness, swelling, or itchiness—especially if they come into direct contact with your lenses.
• Blurry vision – Oily or creamy makeup products can coat your lenses, creating a filmy layer that distorts your vision. This can be frustrating and may require you to remove, clean, or replace your contacts more often.

If you experience irritation, remove your contacts and rinse them with contact lens solution before reinserting. If discomfort persists, switch to glasses and give your eyes a break.

Yes, but you need to be careful with the type of mascara you choose.

Avoid fiber mascaras or waterproof formulas, as they tend to flake or be difficult to remove. Instead, opt for a tubing mascara or one labeled as ophthalmologist-tested, which is designed to stay put without irritating your eyes.

When applying mascara, focus on the middle and tips of your lashes rather than the roots. This reduces the chance of smudging or getting flakes near your eyes.

If you notice mascara particles on your contacts, remove and clean them with fresh solution before reinserting.

Can you wear eyeliner with contacts?

Yes, but placement matters.

Avoid applying eyeliner on the inner lash line (waterline) because it can transfer directly to your lenses. Instead, apply it slightly above the lash line on your upper lid for a safer, smudge-free look.

Gel and liquid liners tend to stay in place better than pencil liners, which can break down and smudge into your eyes.

If your eyes feel irritated after applying eyeliner, check your contacts for any residue and rinse them if needed.

Tightlining—applying eyeliner directly on the waterline—is not recommended for contact lens wearers. The product sits too close to your eyes, increasing the risk of it transferring onto your contacts and causing irritation.

But if you love the tightlined look, try applying eyeliner as close to your lash line as possible without touching your waterline. This gives the same definition without the risk of clouding your lenses.

If your eyes feel uncomfortable after tightlining, remove your contacts and switch to glasses for the rest of the day.

Best Contact Lenses for Makeup Wearers

If you love wearing makeup, choosing the right contact lenses can make a big difference in comfort and clarity. Here are some of the best options for makeup wearers:

1. 1-DAY ACUVUE® MOIST – These daily disposable lenses provide fresh, clean lenses every day, reducing the risk of makeup buildup and irritation.
2. DAILIES TOTAL1® – Designed with high water content, these lenses keep your eyes hydrated, which helps prevent dryness caused by makeup and setting sprays.
3. ACUVUE® OASYS 1-DAY – Known for their breathable design, these lenses offer all-day comfort, even for those who wear heavy or long-wear makeup.
4. Biofinity® – If you prefer monthly lenses, Biofinity’s moisture-retaining technology keeps lenses comfortable, even if your makeup routine includes powders or setting sprays.
5. PRECISION1® – These daily lenses provide sharp, clear vision while maintaining moisture, making them a great option for makeup lovers who want fresh lenses every day.

Generally speaking, daily disposable lenses are the best option for makeup wearers since they eliminate the hassle of cleaning off residue. But if you wear bi-weekly or monthly lenses, make sure to clean them properly every night to keep them clear of makeup buildup.

1. Can you wear contacts and makeup?

Yes, you absolutely can. You just need to be mindful of the products you use and how you apply them. Stick to oil-free, smudge-proof formulas, avoid tightlining, and always wash your hands before touching your lenses. If makeup gets on your contacts, remove and clean them with fresh solution to avoid irritation.

2. Do you insert contacts before or after makeup?

Always insert your contacts before applying makeup. This prevents makeup from transferring onto your lenses and makes the application process easier. When removing makeup, take your contacts out first to avoid getting residue on them.

3. What type of mascara is best for contact lens wearers?

Choose a tubing mascara or one labeled ophthalmologist-tested. These formulas are less likely to flake into your eyes. Avoid fiber mascaras and waterproof formulas, as they can break down and cause irritation.

4. How do you get makeup off contacts?

If makeup gets on your contacts, remove them and rinse with a multipurpose contact lens solution. Do not use water or saliva to clean them, as this can introduce bacteria. If the residue doesn’t come off, switch to a fresh pair.

5. Can I wear false eyelashes with contacts?

Yes, but be careful. Choose lightweight, hypoallergenic lash glue and avoid applying falsies too close to the lash line. If glue or lash fibers get into your eyes, remove your contacts and clean them immediately.

Get Your Contact Lenses Online at 1-800-GET-LENS

Wearing contact lenses and eye makeup together is totally doable—you just need the right techniques and products to keep your lenses clean and your eyes comfortable. With these tips in mind, you can rock your favorite makeup looks without worrying about smudges or irritation because you now know how to get makeup off contacts when accidents happen.

Need fresh contacts? 1-800-GET-LENS makes it easy to order your favorite brands online at great prices. Whether you prefer daily disposables or long-lasting lenses, we’ve got you covered. Shop now and keep your vision clear while flaunting your makeup skills with confidence!