are-trendy-eyelash-extensions-safe

Is having trendy, ultra-long, thick eyelashes worth the expense and potential health risks? 

 

Our natural lashes play a crucial role in protecting our eyes. Our eyes are exposed to the environment, so they serve as a barrier, preventing airborne particles and directing air away from the eyeball. In addition, they induce blinking to safeguard the eyes and ensure they stay moist.

 

Eyelash extensions consist of individual fibres attached to each natural lash, typically using glue. These extensions can be composed of various materials, such as natural fibres like silk or animal hair or synthetic fibres like nylon or plastic. The application of glue can potentially lead to issues.

 

While most technicians conduct a patch test prior to the actual appointment to check for allergic reactions to the glue—typically on the wrist or behind the ear—the chemicals in the glue can still cause irritation in the sensitive eye area, even without an allergic response. Furthermore, the weight of the glue can also lead to lash irritation.

 

It is crucial to apply eyelash adhesive properly. There have been instances where individuals mistakenly glued their eyelids together using eyelash adhesive. Given the adhesive's proximity to the eye, avoiding any contact between eyelash glue and the eye's surface is imperative.

According to a study, more than 60% of women experienced keratoconjunctivitis, an eye condition characterised by inflammation of both the cornea and conjunctiva, after getting eyelash adhesive in their eyes. The same study indicated that 40% of women suffered from an allergic reaction to the glue.

 

In some cases, nail glue, which is significantly stronger and more potent, has been misrepresented as eyelash glue or used as a substitute. In a particularly alarming incident, a woman's eyelids became stuck together after superglue was used to apply her eyelash extensions.

 

Eyelash adhesives can present different health risks. In a study testing 37 consumer and professional eyelash glues for formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, 75% of the 20 professional glues released formaldehyde, while four of the 17 consumer glues contained the chemical. Some of the glues containing formaldehyde were not disclosed in their ingredients.

 

The glue's preservatives may lead to toxic conjunctivitis and conjunctival erosion, which occurs when the outer layer of cells on the cornea, known as the epithelium, becomes detached from the underlying layer. This painful condition can impact vision.

 

The most commonly reported issue associated with eyelash extensions is blepharitis, which is the inflammation or irritation of the eyelids. The edges of the eyelids contain follicles responsible for eyelash growth, and within these are two types of glands that produce antimicrobial substances to prevent the accumulation of bacteria around the eyes.

 

Modifications to the natural lashes disrupt this process, leading to the accumulation of bacteria that causes blepharitis. Changes to the natural lash can also form styes, as the adhesive or bacterial buildup may block the secretions from the follicles.

 

Inadequate salon hygiene can result in an infestation of lash mites. Although most individuals harbour several Demodex mites, inadequate hygiene of lash tools can lead to an infestation, especially if the natural lash function is compromised.

 

Even the most professional removal of eyelash extensions can have a negative impact on natural lashes.

 

Some people are choosing eyelash serums instead of extensions. For example, eyelash growth serums containing prostaglandin have become popular because they can significantly improve the length, thickness, and colour of natural lashes.

 

These serums have developed from treatments for glaucoma, a condition that affects vision due to fluid build-up in the eye. It was observed that glaucoma patients using prostaglandin eye drops experienced thicker, longer, and darker lashes.

 

The use of prostaglandin analogues, which are similar molecules, has also become widespread. However, both types of products carry potential health risks. They can alter the colour of the iris, possibly permanently, and they can lead to loss of fat tissue around the eye—known as prostaglandin-associated peri orbitopathy—which can cause the eyes to appear hollow and worsen the appearance of dark circles.

 

If you are considering investing in eyelash enhancements, it's important to visit an experienced technician at a reputable salon with strict hygiene practices. It's best not to make it a regular practice if you want to maintain the health of your natural lashes.