The 4 terrifying hidden dangers of eyelash extensions – from lash mites to cornea erosion to cancer-causing
GLAMOROUSLY long and thick lashes are very much in fashion.
Eyelash extensions are one of the many ways people are now taking their lashes to new lengths.
Usually, those who wear extensions will have synthetic, faux mink or silk fibres attached to each eyelash strand.
And unlike their predecessor false eyelashes, extensions promise to make your lashes look fuller and darker for weeks – no daily messy reapplication or mascara necessary.
“Eyelash extensions are generally safe,” consultant ophthalmologist Mr Alex Day tells the Sun, “providing you get them done at a reputable clinic with an experienced aesthetician”.
“Look out for basic things like hand washing and ask if the tweezers are single-use disposable or that they are sterilised between clients,” he added.
An inexperienced aesthetician can leave you in a bit of a mess.
Just last month, a model was left blind and had to have her eyeball removed after a botched eyelash appointment, according to a cautionary tale in the Mirror.
In the agonising weeks that followed, Bai Fern, 40, was struck down with a severe infection before her eye changed colour and doctors had no choice but to remove it.
“The doctor asked if I was ready or not,” Bari told local media.
“At that time, I was shocked. What did he mean? But eventually, I understood that he meant the removal of my eye.
“He previously mentioned that I would never be able to see in my affected eye again, whether I keep it or not.”
We can’t say for sure exactly what caused Bai’s horrific infection, but what we do know is that she is far from alone in having terrifying reactions to falsies.
1. People have had their eyes glued together…
Proper application of eyelash extensions is crucial.
The extensions are attached using glue, and if not applied correctly by the lash technician, it can cause issues.
There have been news reports of women having their eyelids stuck together with eyelash glue.
This can lead to the eyelash extensions pulling out your natural lashes, which is likely not the look you were after.
More concerning, though, is that the adhesive could come into contact with the eye’s surface, leading to serious problems.
In one Japanese study, over 60 per cent of women reported keratoconjunctivitis after getting eyelash adhesive in their eyes.
Keratoconjunctivitis is a condition involving inflammation of the cornea, the protective layer covering the eye.
It can leave your vision blurry and make your eyes sensitive to light for weeks.
The same study found that 40 per cent of women had an allergic reaction to the glue, which can also cause the eyelids to stick together.
Alex recommends always having a patch test at least 24-48 hours before your appointment.
“This will ensure that you do not have a reaction to the glue.
“Eyelash extensions are often applied alongside a tint, so you should also have a patch test for the chemicals used in the tint.
“If your clinic or aesthetician does not offer this, I strongly recommend looking for an alternative provider.”
2. The glue may ’cause cancer’
Some eyelash glues have been found to contain cancer-causing chemicals.
One study tested 37 over-the-counter and professional eyelash glues for formaldehyde, a chemical known to potentially trigger cancer.
Shockingly, the experts found that 75 per cent of the 20 professional glues used in salons released formaldehyde.
When they tested at-home kits, four out of the 17 glues were found to contain the dangerous chemical.
There have also been alarming cases where much stronger nail glue has been used instead of proper eyelash adhesive.
In one shocking incident, a woman’s eyelids were stuck together after a backstreet beautician in Phuket, Thailand, used superglue to apply her eyelash extensions.
“Eyelash extensions are not regulated like some cosmetic procedures,” Alex says. “So ask where they and the glue were manufactured – I would always prefer products made in Europe or the US.”
3. The glue can erode your cornea…
Preservatives in glue can spell trouble for your eyes.
They can lead to conjunctivitis, a common eye infection also known as pink eye, and even cause the top layer of cells on your cornea to peel away.
This painful condition can seriously affect your sight.
4. You can get lash mites…
Neglecting your lashes when you get home can lead to a frightening lash mite infestation.
The microscopic critters, known as Demodex, might sound like something from a horror film, but they live on everyone.
Demodex make their home in the pores on your face, feed on the sebum you produce, and reproduce while you sleep.
They are attracted to the oils that build up on eyelashes and can overpopulate if the lashes are dirty.
So, not washing your eyelashes properly can lead to a buildup of these eight-legged creatures, causing inflammation and itchiness along the eyelids.
To keep your lashes clean, Alex advises gently brushing and cleaning them daily with an oil-free cleanser.
“Always try to dab them dry and avoid rubbing,” he says.
“If you have any concerns about an infection or complication, seek medical advice.”
Are there any alternatives to lash extensions?
By Mr Alex Day, consultant ophthalmologist
Another treatment that is becoming increasingly popular is the “lash lift”.
This treatment involves harsh chemicals and there is the possibility of injury to the eye itself if it is not carried out safely.
I recommend going to a reputable clinic and ensuring that the perming solutions used are regulated.
It goes without saying that you should never attempt to purchase solutions over the internet and attempt to do your lash lift at home.
If the formula goes into your eyes, you risk chemical injury to the eye which may affect your vision long-term.