Ocular Cosmetics: Public Safety Problem or Harmless Products?

PURPOSE: This perspective explores the safety profile of ocular cosmetics and explores the role ophthalmologists can play in mitigating potential ocular harm from unsafe products. METHODS: N/A. RESULTS: Cosmetics and personal care products represent a large industry that is currently unregulated in any meaningful way. Products intended for use around the eyes carry a risk of serious side effects including contact dermatitis and bacterial infection. Currently, legislation has been proposed to change regulation to provide more meaningful oversight of cosmetics. CONCLUSIONS: Ophthalmologists are often the first to recognize patterns in harmful products intended for use around the eye and can help mitigate potential future ocular harm by reporting adverse events to the Food and Drug Administration and by advocating for cosmetic regulation change.