We All Want Great Eyelashes

Who doesn’t want longer, thicker, and darker lashes? They are a sign of beauty. They make us look more awake. Leaving the house without mascara gets you the “are you feeling OK today?” from friends and co-workers. Really though, who has the time to have perfect eyelashes every day? Many people who are tired of the hassle are turning to eyelash extensions. Eyelash extensions are professionally applied real or synthetic hairs or fibers applied over natural lashes. Even those of us who don’t keep up with the latest beauty trends have heard about them.

There are three types of lash extensions: synthetic, silk, and mink all in a variety of sizes and shapes. Lash extensions are applied by a technician in a salon, not by a physician, using tweezers and a specially formulated, semi-permanent glue. Eyelash extension application can take as long as two hours and your eyes will remain closed while they are put on. The faux lashes typically last three to four weeks, falling off as your natural lashes shed. The benefit to extensions is that you get somewhere between 21 and 28 days where you wake up with perfect eyelashes. However, eyelash extensions do have a few risks that you should consider.

What are the Risks

Although they are uncommon, there are risks associated with eyelash extensions. It is important to understand all of the risks before you make an appointment:

  1. Trauma to or infection of the eyelid or cornea caused by poor technique
  2. Allergic reaction to ingredients in the glue
  3. Permanent or temporary loss of eyelashes due to improper technique

Experience is Key

Remember, the technician is working around your eye with a sharp object. In order to reduce the associated risks, we recommend using an experienced aesthetician in a sanitary salon which practices good hygiene! Check the technician’s training, certification and experience. Look for reputable reviews on the salon or technician and see what people are saying about them on social media. If you know someone who gets eyelash extensions you can ask for a referral. The key is to look for experience and reputation when it comes to eyelash extensions.

Allergic Reactions

Ingredients in the glue may cause allergic reactions which can cause pain, itching, redness and swelling. It may even temporarily interfere with your vision. Eyelash extensions and glue are not currently regulated by the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration). Rubbing, tugging or pulling can fracture your natural lashes and may even cause permanent damage to the eyelash follicle. Also ask about the ingredients of the products, especially allergens. Consider asking for a skin test on your forearm before applying the glue to your lids. If you have an allergic reaction to eyelash extensions, do not try to remove them yourself as this could cause further damage. It is important that you do not try to treat the reaction on your own. Doing so incorrectly may make the symptoms last much longer. Instead, see an Ophthalmologist immediately.

Final Verdict on Eyelash Extensions

Eyelash extensions are safe when you follow these guidelines. Make a checklist of questions that you want to ask when calling or visiting a salon to book your appointment.

Sources: AAO, Huffpost

Images: PixabayAAO