Mascara Sharing Risks: Eye Infections You Can Contract

Infections Transmitted via Shared Mascara

1. Bacterial conjunctivitis: Staph aureus, Strep pneumoniae – redness, purulent discharge, gritty sensation.
2. Viral conjunctivitis: Adenovirus – watery discharge, follicular reaction, preauricular node.
3. Stye (hordeolum): Infected meibomian gland; painful lid nodule.
4. Blepharitis: Chronic lid margin inflammation; crusting, burning.
5. Keratitis: Corneal infection → pain, photophobia, vision loss risk.
6. Ocular herpes (HSV): Dendritic ulcer, recurrent.

Prevention

• Never share eye makeup.
• Replace mascara every 3 months.
• Don’t add saliva or water to dried product.
• Wash hands before application.
• Discard all eye makeup after any eye infection.

Prompt ophthalmic evaluation for symptoms prevents complications.