Are eyelash extensions safe for your eyes?

If you’re thinking of getting eyelash extensions but concerned about how they will affect your natural lashes, you are not alone. Let's take a closer look to understand the pros and cons of getting eyelash extensions.

• What are eyelash extensions?
• Benefits of wearing eyelash extensions?
• Risks and cons associated with eyelash extensions?
• When to avoid eyelash extensions?
• Tips for eyelash extension care
• Safety tips while getting eyelash extensions

What are eyelash extensions?

Eyelash extensions are semi-permanent fibres stuck to your natural lashes to make them look longer, thicker and darker. They look a lot more real than ordinary false eyelashes and eliminate the need of using mascara.

When applied correctly by a licensed professional, eyelash extensions can provide safe, beautiful results that can make your eyes look naturally volumised. Incorrect application and careless handling of the adhesive can affect the eyelid skin and potentially vision.

Types of eyelash extensions

There are three types of extensions based on the material of faux hair including silk, mink and synthetic.

If you’re steering towards a more natural look, silk and mink lashes are considered more suitable options. But if you prefer a bolder look, synthetic lashes are better as they are thicker and darker.

Benefits of wearing eyelash extensions

Eyelash extensions offer several benefits that enhance your natural lashes. Here's why they are worth considering:

Enhances eyes: Eyelash extensions add length, volume and charm to your lashes that can make your eyes pop in no time.

Custom: Talk to your technician about your lash goals and they will tailor the length, colour and curl pattern to meet your preferences, customised to fit your desired look

Longer lasting: With proper care, eyelash extensions can be maintained for up to four weeks to six weeks. Regular maintenance ensures that your extensions last for a longer period.

Time-saving: You won’t need mascara and can even skip applying any eye makeup. This shortens the time you’ll spend on your makeup routine.

Risks and cons associated with eyelash extensions

Though eyelash extensions are just applied to your natural lashes, they can pose a potential risk to your eyes and even affect your eye health. We’ve complied the possible risks and cons of eyelash extensions:

Eye irritation and risk of infection: The area around the eye is delicate and sensitive, and the adhesive used to adhere the lash extensions include chemicals that can be irritating for the eyelids.

Expensive: Eyelash extensions can be significantly more expensive than false lashes and can cost anywhere from £50 to £300 depending on the style of lash extensions you opt for.

High maintenance: You will need to brush and clean the lashes regularly. If you want beautiful lashes at all times, infill appointments are usually booked every three to four weeks.

Damage to natural lashes: The extensions may not have been applied properly or too heavy for your eyelashes, cause them to fall out. Yes, you might even end up with fewer lashes than when you started.

When to avoid eyelash extensions

Eyelash extensions might not be safe for someone with existing health problems with their eyelids, so we do not recommend getting them if you have the following conditions:

Trichotillomania: This involves the stress or anxiety-induced urge to pull out your hair, including your eyelashes.

Eyelid dermatitis: It causes the skin on or around the eyelid to become dry, itchy and irritated when it comes in contact with an allergen like lash glue.

Blepharitis: Produces red, puffy eyes and crusty eyelashes, so getting eyelash extensions with an active case of Blepharitis can exacerbate the pain and is not recommended.

Alopecia areata: A condition that causes full or partial hair loss on the scalp and may affect the eyebrows and eyelashes.

Medical procedures affecting the eye: If you plan to have a medical procedure that will affect the eye, such as LASIK, chemotherapy, or radiation.

Please note: If you suffer from any of the conditions mentioned above, always consult your doctor before getting eyelash extensions.

Tips for eyelash extension care

1. Regular cleaning. Use a gentle foaming eyelash extension cleanser to ensure your lashes and eyes are bacteria-free.
2. Daily grooming. Brush your lashes several times a day with a clean, dry brush to keep them in pristine condition.
3. Mindful showering. Avoid strong water pressure on your face during showers, which can loosen the extensions.
4. Touching the lashes. Avoid rubbing your eyes or pulling your lashes as this will cause them to fall out.

Safety tips while getting eyelash extensions

If you want to get eyelash extensions safely without harming your natural lashes, there are some safety tips you should follow that includes:

Always consult an expert

Choose your lash technician wisely. Check out reviews and ask about their hygiene guidelines. Make sure the person who applies the eyelashes uses clean tools and washes their hands before applying them.

Keep your eyes shut

Closing your eyes will prevent any adhesive leaking into your eyes. But, If the adhesive does manage to get into your eye and is causing irritation, visit your doctor or call emergency services straight away.

Pick the right length

Sometimes extensions can extend beyond a certain length and if you wear prescription glasses, it can bump into your lenses. That’s why it is advisable to keep the lashes short enough, so that you don’t have to wear your glasses farther out than normal.

Get a patch test

Make sure you get a patch test on an area of skin, such as on your arm to identify if you are allergic to any products they use. This prevents any severe allergic reaction, and you can stop the procedure instantly if you experience any discomfort, itching or burning in the tested area.

Prep your eyes correctly

According to the experts of Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, your lower lashes and upper eyelids should be cleaned and covered prior to gluing to protect them from any harm.

Disclaimer: The advice and suggestions in this blog are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for medical care. Before trying any products or remedies, consult with an eye care professional. See our Editorial Policy for details on how we review our blog.