Gaby
Long, thick eyelashes are all the rage these days, but is it worth risking your health for them?
Our natural eyelashes serve important functions. They act as a barrier against bacteria and viruses that could enter the body and, in rare cases, lead to fatal outcomes.
Natural eyelashes protect our eyes by directing airflow away from the surface of the eyeball, preventing airborne particles from getting into our eyes and prompting us to blink. Eyelash extensions, on the other hand, consist of individual fibers that are attached one by one to each natural lash.
These extensions can be made from natural materials like silk, mink, or horsehair, as well as synthetic ones like nylon or plastic. They are attached using glue — which can cause problems, says Adam Taylor, a professor and director of the Clinical Anatomy Research Center at Lancaster University.
Taylor says most salon technicians perform an allergy test on the glue before the procedure by applying it to the client’s wrist or behind their ear. However, even if there is no allergic reaction, the chemicals in the glue can still irritate the sensitive skin around the eyes.
One study found that over 60 percent of women who had eyelash extensions reported experiencing keratoconjunctivitis. This condition can occur when glue gets into the eyes and involves inflammation of both the cornea and conjunctiva. Additionally, 40 percent of study participants suffered allergic reactions to the glue.
Experts have reported instances where nail glue, which is much stronger, was sold as eyelash glue and used instead. In one shocking case, a woman’s eyelids were glued shut after super glue was used for her eyelash extensions.
Eyelash glues can also hide other health risks. Researchers tested professional eyelash glues for formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. The results showed that 75 percent of the 20 samples tested contained formaldehyde, yet the substance was not listed among the ingredients.
And that’s not all the risks
Preservatives in the glue can cause toxic conjunctivitis and erosion of the corneal epithelium (when the layer of cells on the cornea’s surface detaches from the underlying tissue). The issue isn’t just that it’s painful; such ailments can lead to deteriorating vision, Taylor warned.
However, the most common complication of eyelash extensions is blepharitis: inflammation or irritation of the eyelids. The edges of the eyelids contain follicles from which eyelashes grow, and within these follicles are two types of glands that produce antimicrobial substances to prevent bacterial buildup around the eyes.
Interfering with natural eyelashes disrupts this process and leads to bacterial accumulation, resulting in blepharitis. After such interventions, styes often occur because the glue or accumulated bacteria can block the follicles’ secretions.
Poor hygiene in salons can lead to eyelash mite infestations, according to Science Alert.
Even professional removal of extensions can damage natural eyelashes.
For those who can’t live without eyelash extensions, Taylor advised seeking out an experienced technician. Have the technician work in a professional salon that strictly adheres to hygiene protocols. “But try to appreciate your natural lashes and avoid making the extension process a habit,” he added.
