The procedure does come with risks, namely: trauma to or infection of the eyelid or cornea; allergic reaction to the glue; and permanent or temporary loss of eyelashes. Infection can come from inadequate hygiene in the shop or damage to the eye during application.
The risks from eyelash extensions range from injury to irritation, allergic reactions and infections. "You're putting these synthetic extensions so close to the eyeball using sharp tools," says Brissette, and an accident or improper use of the tools could result in trauma to the eyelid or cornea.
Lash extensions should only ever be applied to your lashes, never to your skin. This is because the glue can rip out natural lashes that have just started growing, as well as clog your hair follicle. This can also cause skin irritation and lead to problems beyond damaged natural lashes, such as dermatitis.
Dr. Armstrong says, “The safest way to wear false eyelashes is in moderation. Most problems occur when you wear them for months and months.” Your natural lashes also need breaks from long-lasting eyelash extensions.
Eyelash extensions are a safe way to enhance the look of natural lashes when taken properly by a certified and trained specialist. They can cause irritation, infection, and permanent lash loss if put incorrectly or with the wrong adhesive.
However, there are still some safety concerns, especially if you don't clean them well or if you pick an inexperienced lash stylist. It's definitely something to keep in mind when deciding if lash extensions will be worth it for you, but it's even more important when you select your salon or technician.
False eyelashes are an accessible and affordable alternative to professionally applied eyelash extensions. They come in strips, clusters or single lashes and are applied with glue to the lash line.
Lash extensions should not be applied to individuals who have recently completed or are undergoing chemotherapy, have severe alopecia, or who suffer from trichotillomania or trichinosis.
Lash extensions are high maintenance and can potentially damage your real lashes. If you notice that your natural lashes look thinner and more sparse as your lash extensions start to fall out, the treatment could be to blame. Sometimes, extensions can disrupt your lashes' natural growth cycle.
As a general rule of thumb, many lash experts recommend taking a break every 6-9 months, especially if you've been wearing extensions continuously. Given that the natural lash growth cycle from start to finish can range from 3 to 4 months, individual lashes are at different stages of this cycle at any given time.
Ideally, extensions should not harm your natural lashes; each extension should be carefully isolated and applied to a single natural lash. However, issues arise when extensions are glued to multiple natural lashes, leading to breakage, loss, and the thinning of your natural lashes.
The answer? Properly applied eyelash extensions can be worn indefinitely – as long as the lash extension applied is the correct length, weight and thickness for your natural lashes, there's absolutely no reason why they would be damaged.
As the lash expert Loreta Jasilionyte explains, “If you want a natural look, a lash lift is the better option, while eyelash extensions are ideal if you're going for a more dramatic or glamorous look.”
Are Lash Extensions a Dying Trend? Lash extensions aren't a dying trend. In fact, they're evolving with sustainable materials and customisable options. You'll find eco-friendly, cruelty-free, and health-enhancing lashes that cater to diverse preferences, ensuring their continued popularity and relevance.
Hybrid lashes, which are sometimes called a "mixed set," have a fuller look than classic lashes but aren't as uniform as a Russian volume set. This method is perfect for people who want more drama than classic lashes but don't want the fullness of volume lashes.
Lash Damage: Cluster lashes are heavier than individual lashes, which can put extra strain on your natural lashes. If not applied correctly, they can cause your natural lashes to break or fall out. Removal can also be difficult with glue not coming off properly or easily - causing natural lashes to be pulled out.
Lash extensions already add some weight to your natural lashes and mascara can cause your lashes to be even heavier and cause excess stress on your natural lashes. This extra weight can lead to premature fallout. To maintain the integrity your extensions, it's best to avoid applying mascara altogether.
It may even temporarily interfere with vision. Eyelash extensions and glue are not currently regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Rubbing, tugging or pulling can fracture your natural lashes, and even cause permanent damage to the eyelash follicle.
A: Individuals with known skin hypersensitivity reactions, including contact dermatitis and allergic blepharitis, as well as patients with known eyelid, meibomian gland, dry eye, tear film, or other anterior segment disease, should avoid eyelash extensions.
"Magnetic eyelash extensions may be slightly safer than traditional lash extensions attached with glue,” Lin says. “They pose less of a risk of permanent lash loss and don't carry the risk of seepage of glue onto the surface of the eye."
See a Professional. The safest way (both for your natural lashes and your eyes themselves) to remove your eyelash extensions is to have them removed by a professional.
Curl your eyelashes
Add this quick and easy step into your makeup routine and you'll immediately notice a difference. Gently pressing your lashes between the pads of a curler before applying mascara will flip them skywards, making your eyes look bigger and brighter.