Nowadays, almost every celebrity you know has their own line of classic eyelash extensions. Most of them do rigorous advertising but fail to give very important information on the safety of eyelash extensions. There are several risks that are associated with the inappropriate application of false eyelashes. Some of the most common risks include:
- Allergic reactions which can either be mild or severe
- Erosion of the eyelid’s inner surface
- Irritation of the eyes resulting in redness
- Swelling up and inflammation
- White or yellow discharge
- Permanent or temporary loss of eyelashes
What Are The Main Health Issues Associated With False Eyelashes?
A lot of people jump at the idea of applying false eyelashes without thinking the whole thing through. The fact that a foreign substance is being applied to the eyes means that you’re prone to irritation or infection.
Hygiene is of vital importance starting from the time of application to the time of removal. If the false eyelashes are exposed to bacteria, it results in infections that cause blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and tearing.
Education about eyelashes is very important if you want to keep your eyelashes healthy and free of infection. Here is a list of some common types of eye infections:
- Allergic Conjunctivitis
This causes the eye to become red, itchy, and watery. Application of falsies in this condition will only make the situation worse.
- Conjunctivitis
The symptoms include red or pink eye and the infection is easily spread. Before the application of false eyelashes, get treated and ensure that the symptoms have cleared.
- Blepharitis
This is a condition whereby the follicles of the natural eyelashes turn red and become swollen. Application of false eyelashes causes the condition to get worse.
- Demodex
This infection is caused by eye mites that live inside the pores causing the eyes to swell and become irritated.
- Stye
This infection is characterized by redness accompanied by an inflammation that’s quite painful.
How Can I Avoid Complications Associated With False Eyelashes
The simplest way to avoid the dangers associated with falsies is avoiding using them completely. There are other safer options for giving you fuller and thicker lashes such as the use of mascara. However, if you can’t avoid the false eyelashes altogether, just apply them occasionally.
Another way to minimize your risk of damaged eyelashes is to make sure that you get them done by a certified beautician. You should also check to confirm that they only use standard glue. Ask to see if the glue has formaldehyde which is an allergen and potential carcinogen.
Lastly, ensure that the beautician who fixes the lashes for you washes his/her hands and wears gloves before attending to you.
Cleaning False Eyelashes
If you intend to reuse your false eyelashes multiple times, clean them first and they’ll as good as new. Here’s how they should be cleaned:
- Add a tablespoon of liquid soap to a ¼ cup of lukewarm water.
- Mix thoroughly and then dip the eyelashes into the mixture.
- Leave the lashes to soak for about 30 seconds
- Remove the lashes and gently rub them till they’re clean
- Hold the false eyelashes until they’re clean
- Place the lashes on a piece of paper towel and allow them to dry.
Conclusion
If you’re not careful, the above-mentioned risks can result in permanent damage to your eyelashes. It doesn’t matter how much it cost you to apply the faux lashes, the risks still remain. Apart from the eyelashes glue that is used to apply false eyelashes, you should also be very careful about eyelashes dyes, eyelashes adornments, and eyelashes growth formulas.
If after application you notice that the false eyelashes are causing irritation, see a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
