Because cosmetics can cause dry eyes by migrating into the tear film, blocking the meibomian glands and irritating the ocular surface, optometrists are happy to recommend recently available eye-friendly cosmetic products. One such offering is the Lumify Eye Illuminations (Bausch + Lomb) line of specialty eye care products that includes the 3-in-1 Micellar Cleansing Water and Eye Makeup Remover, Hydra-Gel Brightening Eye Cream, and Nourishing Lash & Brow Serum. All are made using clean, nutrient-rich ingredients and no alcohol, fragrance, mineral oil, parabens, phthalates, polyethylene glycol, polyhexamethylene biguanide, prostaglandins, and sulfates, according to Bausch + Lomb.

Here, Mile Brujic, OD, Selina McGee, OD, FAAO, and Osama Said, OD, discuss how, specifically, they offer these products to patients.

Touting ingredients/use
Dr. Brujic says he broaches the use of the Lumify Eye Illuminations 3-in-1 Micellar Cleansing Water and Eye Makeup remover to makeup wearers by touting its safe and effective ingredients, and its easy, comfortable use. The ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, and eyebright botanical, all of which moisturize and brighten the delicate skin surrounding the eyes, according to Bausch + Lomb. The product does not require rinsing or harsh rubbing and was tested for compatibility with lash extensions and contact lenses, the company says.

“I also offer the Lumify Eye Illuminations 3-in-1 Micellar Cleansing Water and Eye Makeup remover to patients who would benefit from using it for lid hygiene,” he adds.

Dr. Said, of MyEyeDr, in Raleigh, NC, adds that he tells both makeup wearing and non-makeup-wearing patients that the Lumify Eye Illuminations Hydra-Gel Brightening Eye Cream keeps the thin, sensitive skin around the eye hydrated. This aids in the appearance of fine lines, skin tone, texture and wrinkles, thanks to its ingredients. These ingredients: caffeine, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamins C and E, according to Bausch + Lomb.

Using a questionnaire
Dr. McGee, of BeSpoke Vision, in Edmond, Okla., says she offers the Lumify Eye Illuminations Nourishing Lash & Brow serum when answers to a patient questionnaire indicate patients may need or desire it.

“The questionnaire inquires, ‘Do you put anything on your lashes to enhance them?’ and ‘Would you like to have longer, thicker lashes?’ or ‘Have you noticed thinning lashes or lash loss?’,” she explains.

Should she feel the entire line of Lumify Eye Illuminations would benefit a patient, Dr. McGee says she points out she often says the following to the patient:

“Here are the products you should be using around your eyes. This is a line that I’ve already vetted and should be something you consider.”

Guidance needed
Dr. Said stresses that patients depend on their optometrists for guidance regarding products that can benefit them. The Lumify Eye Illuminations (Bausch + Lomb) line of specialty eye care products falls under this category, he says.

“When patients come to us, they are coming to us for our expertise and knowledge, and they want to leave with a recommendation,” says Dr. Said. Regarding the periocular area, he adds: “As optometrists we should absolutely own it.” OM