Are Lash Extensions Hazardous to One’s Eye Health?

Lash extensions are a beauty trend that attracts many. Basically, lash extensions involve gluing synthetic lashes to the wearer’s actual lashes one by one using surgical glue. Each individual lash extension lasts for several weeks; each lash will fall naturally with the cycle of one’s natural lashes. Depending on the lashes’ natural cycle, new lashes will grow and new extensions will need to be added so long as the natural lash remains healthy. Lash extensions enhance and brighten the eyes, in turn, saving the wearer valuable prep time in the morning. However, this new trend raises the question: Are Lash Extensions Hazardous to One’s Eye Heath?

Lash extensions, a trend that lacks proper supervision

Lash extensions themselves are not hazardous if applied properly by a certified technician and well maintained between applications. They must be applied using clinically approved surgical glue. Even then, the glue may cause allergic reactions to some. Furthermore, instruments used must be sterilized between each wearer, elsewise the risk of contamination greatly increases. If not properly sterilized, the risk of contracting conjunctivitis (pink eye) and other contagious eye infections increase as well. The glue must never come into contact with the skin and the base of the extension must not touch the upper eyelid at any time. If it should occur, the wearer could experience discomfort, irritation, dryness or swelling. Finally, completely isolating the natural lash is the most important aspect of this practice. Should proper isolation not be executed, the extension will be glued to clumps of natural lashes. Clumps of glued eyelashes will prevent the wearer from thoroughly brushing the extensions. In addition to being harmful to the growth of the natural lashes, it will make proper hygiene of the extensions nearly impossible. Unfortunately, the lack of supervision and regulations surrounding this new practice is astounding. Many of those calling themselves “trained lash technicians” have never been formally trained. The glitch in the system means that many technicians are not familiar with proper application techniques, do not have access to approved lash extension products and charge the same as a trained technician. This also greatly increased the risk of contamination. These technicians are not necessarily aware of all the risks surrounding this way of practicing.  

Best practices and the need for regulated training

Wearing lash extensions poses no danger so long as the technician applying the lash extensions received their training from a reputable company and underwent rigorous testing prior to being certified. Furthermore, a good technician must take part in continuing education ensuring they remain up-to-date with the latest techniques and products. Applying last extensions cannot be performed without rigorous training and above all else, it is not something that can be performed ad hoc. Proper application must be adapted to the shape and natural lashes of each wearer, their level of sensitivity and the structure of their face. The use of professional products designed specifically for maintaining lash extensions is crucial! When lash extensions are applied, the wearer’s eyes are closed and the lower eye area is protected to ensure no glue touches the area. Adverse reactions, if any, are usually caused by the vapours emitted by the product. However, trusted companies offer a wide range of products suited for sensitive eyes. This is why it is so important to choose a trusted technician who is committed to following hygiene protocols, has strong listening skills and the ability to pay close attention the health of the wearer’s eyes.

The team at your local OPTOPLUS eyecare clinic will be more than happy to assist you in finding the best frame to highlight your new lashes!