Sensitive skin around the eye area requires special care when it comes to makeup. 

What to Look for in Eye Makeup

Ingredients like fragrances, alcohol, dyes, and preservatives can trigger irritation. Look for makeup labeled "fragrance-free" and avoid terms like "unscented," which may still contain masking fragrances. Mineral makeup is a safer bet, as it often lacks irritating ingredients. 

Trial and error may be necessary to find what works for your skin, but be sure to look for gentle options.

Clinique High Impact Zero Gravity Mascara

Clinique High Impact Zero Gravity Mascara is a gentle option for sensitive skin and eyes, with a tubing formula that is easy to remove. The curved brush not only lengthens but also lifts lashes, enhancing their curl. Priced at $28, this mascara is ophthalmologist-tested and keeps lashes lifted for 24 hours. To use, start at the lash roots and wiggle the brush to the tips, repeating to build volume.

Twenty/Twenty Beauty Visionary Eye Shadow Stick

Twenty/Twenty Beauty Visionary Eye Shadow Stick, designed by an ophthalmologist, is hydrating and gentle, perfect for sensitive eyes. With rich pigments, these creamy shadow sticks are easy to apply without tugging. They are safe for sensitive eyes, free of harmful ingredients, and come in four shades. To use, apply directly to eyelids and blend with a finger.

Natasha Denona Bronze Eyeshadow Palette

Natasha Denona Bronze Eye Shadow Palette, priced at $69, offers a blend of warm coppers, bronzes, and neutral champagnes. This palette is long-lasting, blendable, and water-resistant. It includes matte shades that are moisturizing and metallic shades made with crushed crystals and pearls. Experts recommend pairing it with ND's Eyeshadow Base and applying matte shades with a fluffy brush and metallics with a damp brush or finger.

Ilia Clean Line Gel Eyeliner

Ilia Clean Line Gel Liner is a long-wearing eyeliner that glides on smoothly and stays put. Going for $26, this gel liner in pencil form is perfect for sensitive eyes and can even be used on the waterline. It's free of sulfates, parabens, and other harmful ingredients, and is vegan and cruelty-free. Glide across the lash line for a defined look or blend out for a smoky effect.

Almay Thickening Mascara

Almay Thickening Mascara is a game-changer for your lashes, providing volume without clumps or flakes. Selling for $8, this mascara has a wand that evenly coats each lash from root to tip, creating a lush, high-volume look. Infused with aloe and vitamin B5, it conditions lashes for a fuller appearance. Ophthalmologist-tested and fragrance-free, it's suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. Apply two coats of 25 strokes each for 100% thicker lashes.