Eye infections Infections can occur when bacteria build up under eyelash glue and on the false eyelash itself. If you store and reuse false eyelashes or drop them on a surface before applying them, there is a risk of harmful bacteria and dirt entering the eye. The adhesive in eyelash glue and the solvents used to remove it can cause poisoning and serious injury. Side effects include allergic reactions and damage to the cornea.
In addition, eyelash extensions increase the risk of bacterial and fungal eye infections. Both infections and allergic reactions can have similar symptoms. Seeing a doctor will ensure that you get the right treatment. Eyelash extensions have also been reported to cause irritation to the conjunctiva (conjunctivitis) or the cornea (keratitis).
The FDA has an extensive list of safety tips for beauty treatments, including eyelash extensions, mascara, eye shadow, and other cosmetics. Among beauty treatments, eyelash extensions account for the largest number of ophthalmic clinic visits in Japan, where they have been widely used. Temporary eyelashes are placed above natural lashes, while semi-permanent lashes adhere to the natural eyelashes of the eye. Unlike false eyelashes, eyelash extensions are designed to be a more durable solution for beautifying your natural eyelashes.
If you're not sensitive to any of the ingredients used, your eyelash extensions will feel comfortable. Removing false eyelashes can also remove natural eyelashes if those hairs get in the way, a tensile alopecia similar to that caused by extensions. The easiest way to prevent the risk of eye infection or irritation is to simply avoid putting on eyelash extensions. In fact, the College of Optometrists of England has warned that repeated use of eyelash extensions can cause traction alopecia, a condition in which hair falls out due to excessive stress placed on the hair shaft.
Maintaining eyelash extensions includes touch-ups, which can be expensive, in addition to daily maintenance, such as detangling eyelashes. The glues used to adhere eyelash extensions to eyelashes include chemicals and ingredients that can be irritating or harmful. During the procedure, each extension is applied individually to the lash line and is “filled in” once the natural eyelash falls out (usually within a few weeks), taking the extension with you. To avoid the dangers of eyelash glue, doctors recommend that you get your eyelashes fixed by a professional salon that uses reputable eyelash glue, an often expensive service, or that you completely remove extensions.
Eyelash ornaments, such as attaching small glass beads or crystals to the eyelashes or, more importantly, attaching small charms to the cables that are placed on the eyelids, pose the same risks as eyelash extensions, not to mention an additional hazard. If you are thinking about applying false eyelashes and you know that you have allergic reactions to one or more of these ingredients, read the ingredients in the eyelash glue carefully and let the makeup artist know.
