Eyelash extensions can give your eyes a dramatic and beautiful look without the daily hassle of mascara. Our team at Total Vision Rancho Bernardo understands the appeal: You get to wake up with long, full lashes every day. But as you consider this popular cosmetic treatment, it’s important to know the effects it can have on your eye health.
While eyelash extensions can be a great way to enhance your appearance, they can introduce risks to your eye health if the application and aftercare are not handled correctly.
Potential Risks to Your Eye Health
Infections and Irritation
Your natural eyelashes have an important job: They help keep dirt and debris out of your eyes. When extensions are applied, they can sometimes trap these particles closer to your eyelid, creating a place for bacteria to grow. This can lead to uncomfortable and occasionally painful eye infections.
Your eyelids are also lined by tiny oil glands that help to keep your eyes lubricated. In some cases, the adhesive used for extensions can block these glands, leading to dryness and irritation. A stiff extension can even scratch the surface of your eye, called the cornea.
Allergic Reactions
The adhesives used to apply eyelash extensions contain multiple ingredients, and your skin may be sensitive to them. Some lash adhesives may release small amounts of formaldehyde or contain related preservatives, which can cause a significant allergic reaction for some people.
An allergic reaction can show up as a combination of uncomfortable symptoms. You may notice:
- Swelling around the eyelids
- Redness in the eye or on the skin
- Persistent itching
How Lash Extensions Affect Your Natural Lashes
Traction Alopecia
Think about the sore feeling on your scalp after wearing a tight hairstyle. That pulling sensation can damage hair follicles, and the same thing can happen to your eyelashes. This condition, called traction alopecia, occurs when the weight of the extensions constantly pulls on your natural lashes.
Over time, this strain can weaken the follicle, the tiny pocket where your lash grows. The result can be slowed lash growth, or in some severe cases, the follicle may stop producing new lashes altogether. This leaves you with thinner natural lashes than you had before.
Brittleness and Breakage
Even without damage to the follicle, lash extensions can make your natural lashes weak and brittle, as the adhesive bond and the extra weight can take a toll. This makes your lashes more likely to break, especially if you rub your eyes.
Improper removal is another common source of damage. Pulling off extensions can easily rip out your natural lashes along with them, which is why it’s so important to have them removed by a professional who can dissolve the adhesive safely.
Common Signs of an Eye Problem
If you have eyelash extensions, pay close attention to how your eyes look and feel. Your body often gives you clear signals when something is wrong, including but not limited to:
- Persistent redness or bloodshot eyes
- Discomfort, itching, or a burning sensation
- Swollen eyelids or discharge from the eye
These symptoms can sometimes signal an infection. For example, redness and discharge are common signs of conditions like conjunctivitis (pink eye), which can happen when bacteria are trapped near the eyelid.
Tips for a Safer Lash Application
Choose Your Technician and Salon Wisely
The skill of your technician makes a huge difference. Before booking an appointment, confirm that the professional is licensed and certified in your state. A clean and sanitary environment is also key, so take a look around the salon to see that tools are properly sterilized.
Know the Products and Process
You have a right to know what is being used around your eyes. Ask your technician about the glue’s ingredients, and if you have sensitive skin, ask for a patch test. A patch test involves applying a small amount of the glue to your skin, usually on your arm, to see if you react before it’s used on your eyes.
When to Contact Your Eye Doctor in San Diego
If you experience any discomfort or unusual symptoms after getting lash extensions, don’t wait for it to get worse. It may be time to contact your eye doctor in San Diego if you notice any of the following:
- Your symptoms last for more than 24 hours
- You experience any changes in your vision, like blurriness
- The pain or discomfort becomes severe
Your Eye Health Is Beautiful
Your eye health is our first priority. If you have concerns about how eyelash extensions have affected your eyes, our team at Total Vision Rancho Bernardo can provide a comprehensive eye exam to assess your situation. Schedule a visit to get the personalized care you need.
