In the world of beauty, the term “hypoallergenic” is often used to suggest that a product is safer or gentler—particularly for those with sensitive skin or eyes. But here’s the truth: “hypoallergenic” isn’t a regulated term, and it doesn't guarantee that a product is free of allergens or irritation-causing ingredients.

In many cases, it's simply a marketing tactic designed to attract cautious consumers. What’s more, the FDA doesn’t require companies to list ingredients present at concentrations of 1% or less—meaning potential allergens might not even appear on the label.

This is especially concerning when it comes to products used around the eyes, where the skin is thinner, more delicate, and more reactive. A “hypoallergenic” label offers no real assurance of safety for sensitive eyes or skin.

At Èyes Are The Story, we believe in evidence-based, ophthalmic-grade formulations, not empty buzzwords. Because when it comes to your eyes, transparency and science matter more than trends.

Consumers and the patients we serve need to understand that there is no guarantee that a cosmetic will not cause an allergic reaction. Additionally, the long list of other cosmetics wear complications is not relayed to the consumer. Dermatologists agree that the label hypoallergenic has very little value. 

 

Be aware that when buying products, such as ‘gentle mascaras’ that promise to give you longer, thicker lashes without any redness, stinging, or itching – Read the ingredients. When reviewing the chemicals used in the formulations, look for hormone disruptors, formaldehyde donors, and neurotoxins. Furthermore, recent Harvard research shows that cosmetic preservatives such as formaldehyde, phenoxyethanol, and chlorphenesin are toxic to the human ocular surface -- and these ingredients can be found in many mainstream cosmetics that claim to be hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive eyes. Individuals are causing damage to their eye health with each application of these products.

There are well-known complications for the eyes associated with mainstream beauty ingredients and cosmetics practices.

Bottom Line: Beauty may be skin deep, but health risks are often invisible to the eye, unless you read the fine print. Check out our latest Ingredient Intel below.

EYE MAKEUP NASTIES TO AVOID

- Parabens
- Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde donors
- Tea Tree Oil
- Argirilene
- Phenoxyethanol
- Chlorphenesin
- Retin A
- Isopropyl cloprostenate
- Benzalkonium chloride (BAK)
- Salicylic acid