People have been using cosmetic techniques to enhance their appearance for thousands of years. Recently, eyelash extensions have gained widespread attention. You may have even considered them yourself. As a smart consumer, you’ll want to research both the benefits and the health risks of eyelash extensions before making a decision.
What’s Growing On Here?
Wearing eyelash extensions involves the adhesion of synthetic fibers onto your natural lashes. The expected outcome is a dramatic, lush look, so some consumers are surprised when faced with side effects they hadn’t bargained for. Recently, the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) has warned of these dangers associated with eyelash extensions:
- Infection of the cornea
- Infection or swelling (or both) of the eyelid
- Loss of natural lashes
Many of these conditions arise from the glue used. Many adhesives for eyelash extensions are formaldehyde-based, or have formaldehyde in them, which the EPA notes is an eye, nose, and throat irritant. This means that even if the skin contact doesn’t irritate your eyes, the fumes can, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Eye-Opening Advice
A study published in the Japanese Journal of Hygiene found that over 25 percent of participants who had eyelash extensions experienced health problems, ranging from itchy, swollen eyelids to pain and ocular hyperemia. Even temporary use of the synthetic lashes was associated with complications.
If you do want to try eyelash extensions, the AAO recommends these precautions:
- Research the technician and establishment where you plan to have the procedure done. Ask for their certifications, and inquire about the points mentioned in this article. If the aesthetician cannot answer your questions, keep shopping until you find one who can.
- Assess the salon’s environment and hygiene practices. Can you observe frequent hand washing? Are the instruments sanitized?
- Read up on each ingredient in the glue used to adhere the eyelashes. This may be what convinces you to pursue other ways of enhancing your look. Some salons won’t even offer you the package for inspection, which should be an indication to use caution. When you do get your hands on the ingredient list, find each one on the FDA’s Personal Care Products Council website. This commission reviews the purpose and potential risks of every ingredient found in cosmetic products.
Our Conclusion? Buyer Beware!
If your lashes don’t naturally grow thick and long, take heart: you’re not alone. The sheer size of the cosmetics industry tells us much about the demand for beauty-enhancing products, and eye makeup leads the way. But are faux lashes the answer, considering the health risks of eyelash extensions?
Health should always trump beauty, especially when risks abound. Our advice is to avoid eyelash extensions and faux lashes altogether, and stick to fresh mascara or eyeliner.
For questions or comments, contact Woodhams Eye Clinic.
Image source: Flickr
