How To Prevent Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

Don't Share Personal Hygiene Products

'Don't share personal hygiene products' is one of the most effective pieces of advice eye doctors give to patients with pink eye and other eye health concerns. In particular, patients should avoid using contact lenses that are not their own, and they should also not share any artificial tears, eye drops, or eye cosmetics with others. Mascara, eye shadow, and any other eye cosmetics used before an episode of conjunctivitis should be thrown out, and patients who use lash curlers need to disinfect them with alcohol or replace them. Out of an abundance of caution, patients should also avoid sharing towels, washcloths, and other personal care items. During infection with conjunctivitis, it may be helpful for the patient to store their towels, contacts, eye drops, and other personal eye health items in a separate location from the rest of the household.