Wearing the wrong mascara can cause irritation, blurriness or discomfort—especially if you wear contacts. That’s why finding the best mascara for contact lens wearers is essential for both comfort and eye health.. Flaking formulas harsh ingredients and smudges can cause irritation or even damage to your lenses. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up on bold lashes. This guide will help you discover the best mascaras for contact lens wearers in 2025 — safe, smudge free and stunning.
Let’s explore what makes mascara safe for contacts what to avoid expert recommendations and the top rated mascaras tested for sensitive eyes.
How to Choose the Best Mascara for Contact Lens Wearers
For anyone asking “What is the best mascara to use with contact lenses?” The answer lies in the ingredients and the formula design. Here’s what you should look for:
- Tested by an eye doctor The mascaras are specially made to be suitable for contact lenses and eyes.
- Hypoallergenic and odorless: Doesn’t cause allergy responses.
- No fibers or flakes: Prevents tiny particles from entering your eyes.
- Not only does it not run but it’s also gentle and doesn’t need to be rubbed off hard.
💡A Pro Tip is to always select mascaras that are suitable for contact lens wearers or for eyes that are sensitive.
For those who also struggle with dry lashes or brittle brows while wearing contact lenses using the right nourishing products can make a big difference. You might also want to check out our Best Hair Oil for Fine Hair (2025 Guide) for overall hair nourishment tips.
🚫 What Type of Mascara Should Contact Lens Wearers Avoid?
If you’ve ever asked Can you wear mascara if you wear contact lenses? — yes, but not every type is suitable. Avoid:
- Fiber mascaras – These can flake into your eyes.
- Heavy waterproof mascaras – Difficult to remove and often require oil based removers.
- Fragranced formulas – Irritate sensitive eyes.
Top 7 Best Mascaras for Contact Lens Wearers in 2025
We’ve researched dermatologist and ophthalmologist approved options to find the safest, most effective mascaras for contact wearers.
1. Maybelline Full 'N Soft Waterproof Mascara
- Gentle, flake free formula
- Adds volume without clumping
- Safe for sensitive eyes and contact lenses
Best buy for everyday wear on a budget
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
2. Clinique High Impact Mascara
- Free of scents and allergy tested
- Adds intense volume and length
- Ophthalmologist recommended
Great for people with dry or itchy eyes
3. Almay One Coat Thickening Mascara
- Hypoallergenic and cruelty free
- One coat is enough for visible lashes
- Safe for daily use
Affordable and contact-safe
4. Neutrogena Healthy Volume Mascara
- With extra olive oil and sweet almonds
- Nourishes lashes and prevents breakage
- No harsh chemicals
Best for dry eyes and long term use
5. Tarte’s Lights, Camera, Lashes mascara 4-in-1
- Not made with sulfates or chemicals and it’s vegan.
- Lifts, curls, lengthens and volumizes
- Loved by users with sensitive eyes
Premium choice
6. L’Oréal Paris Air Volume Mega Mascara
- Lightweight and long wearing
- Doesn’t flake or smudge
- Ideal for full day wear
Good for humid conditions
7. Honest Beauty Extreme Length Mascara and Primer
- Dual ended: primer + mascara
- Clean formula, ophthalmologist tested
- There are no chemicals, silicones or artificial colors.
Best clean beauty pick
✨ Is Maybelline Sky High a suitable mascara for contact lens wearers?
Yes! It’s tested for sensitive eyes, doesn’t flake and offers long lasting lift — a favorite among contact wearers.
How to Apply Mascara Safely with Contact Lenses
- For safety always wear your contact lenses before beginning your makeup routine.
- Wash hands thoroughly – Avoid transferring oils or bacteria.
- Avoid inner rims – Can I put eyeliner in my waterline while wearing contacts? Preferably not. It can smear lenses.
- Don’t over-layer – One or two coats is enough.
- Use oil-free remover – To avoid lens clouding.
💬 What eyeliner is best for contacts?
Use gel or pencil eyeliners labeled “safe for waterline” and “ophthalmologist-tested.” Avoid liquid liners with alcohol.
Ingredients to Avoid in Mascara (If You Wear Contacts)
- Parabens
- Fragrances
- Alcohol
- Synthetic fibers
- Waterproof waxes that need harsh removers
Is Waterproof Mascara Better for Contact Lens Wearers?
Not always. While waterproof formulas resist smudging they often require oil based removers that can irritate sensitive eyes. Look for water resistant mascaras that balance durability and gentleness.
Is Tubing Mascara the Best Choice for Contact Lens Wearers?
Yes! Tubing mascaras use a polymer formula that wraps around lashes without flaking perfect for contact wearers.
Expert Tips to Prevent Eye Irritation
- Replace mascara every 3 months
- Never share eye makeup
- Always remove makeup before sleep
- If your eyes feel dry use eye drops that are safe for contacts.
💬 What happens if I use Lumify with contacts?
Use Lumify before inserting lenses and wait at least 10 minutes.
FAQs Best Mascara and Eye Makeup for Contact Lens Wearers
Which types of eye makeup are most suitable for those who wear contact lenses?
Hypoallergenic mascara + tubing formula + gel eyeliner + oil free remover.
Can you wear mascara if you wear contact lenses?
Yes, as long as it’s ophthalmologist tested and flake free.
What kind of mascara do eye doctors suggest?
You can choose safe brands like Clinique, Almay and Neutrogena.
Do contacts make your eyes more vibrant?
Yes, especially colored or enhancing lenses, perfect lashes only make them pop more!
What to put in eyes while wearing contacts?
Use only rewetting drops that are made for people who wear contacts.
What percentage of Americans wear contacts?
About 16.7% of Americans or more than 45 million people wear contact lenses.
Conclusion
Finding the best mascara for people who wear contacts doesn’t have to mean giving up length, volume or drama. Stick to ophthalmologist approved options avoid flaking fibers and use proper application techniques. Whether you’re new to contacts or a daily wearer these picks will help you flutter your lashes without fear.
Ready to try one?
Check out our affiliate links for safe eye friendly mascaras tested by real users in 2025.