From the Guidelines
If you've left makeup on overnight and are experiencing symptoms similar to an upper respiratory infection (URI) with eye watering, you should first remove all makeup immediately using a gentle eye makeup remover. Rinse your eyes thoroughly with clean, cool water or use preservative-free artificial tears like Refresh or Systane to flush out irritants. Apply a cold compress to your eyes for 10-15 minutes to reduce inflammation and swelling. Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops such as Zaditor or Alaway may help reduce itching and watering if allergic reaction is suspected. If symptoms persist beyond 24-48 hours, worsen, or if you develop pain, vision changes, or discharge, seek medical attention promptly as you may have developed conjunctivitis or another eye infection requiring prescription treatment. These symptoms occur because makeup particles can migrate into your eyes during sleep, causing irritation to the conjunctiva and tear ducts, which triggers increased tear production and inflammation, as noted in studies on eye care and hygiene 1. Always remove makeup before sleeping to prevent such issues, as cosmetics contain preservatives and pigments that aren't meant for prolonged contact with the delicate eye area. It's also important to note that while the provided evidence primarily discusses upper respiratory infections and sinusitis 1, the key to managing eye symptoms related to makeup and potential URI is prompt removal of the irritant and use of appropriate eye care products.
From the FDA Drug Label
Uses temporarily relieves these symptoms due to hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies: runny nose sneezing itchy, watery eyes itching of the nose or throat For URI symptoms with eye watering due to an allergic reaction, such as leaving makeup on overnight, diphenhydramine (OPHTH) may be used to temporarily relieve itchy, watery eyes 2.
- The treatment is intended for upper respiratory allergies.
- Diphenhydramine (OPHTH) can provide relief for watery eyes associated with allergies.
From the Research
Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URIs) and Treatment
- URIs, such as the common cold, are typically caused by viruses, but some are caused by bacteria 3.
- Symptoms of URIs include congestion, runny nose, and fever, and can be treated with over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen for pain or fever, and antihistamines and/or decongestants to treat congestion and runny nose 3.
- Antibiotics are not effective against viral URIs and should only be used in cases where a bacterial infection is present 3, 4.
Management of Acute Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
- Early intervention is key in managing acute upper respiratory tract infections, and can help reduce symptom severity and prevent complications 5.
- Mucoadhesive gel nasal sprays have shown promise in early intervention of acute URIs, and can help prevent the invasion of the mucosa by the virus 5.
- Recommended therapy for the common cold involves symptom management with over-the-counter drugs, though the Food and Drug Administration advises against use of these drugs in children younger than 6 years 6.
Treatment of URI Symptoms
- Treatments with proven effectiveness for cold symptoms in adults include over-the-counter analgesics, zinc, nasal decongestants with or without antihistamines, and ipratropium for cough 7.
- For children, established safe and effective treatments include acetylcysteine, honey (for children one year and older), nasal saline irrigation, intranasal ipratropium, and topical application of ointment containing camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oils 7.
- Over-the-counter cold medications should not be used in children younger than four years 7.