Certain missteps in their care could weaken the adhesives or tug at your lashes. Long-term use: It's possible that over time, repeated applications can cause damage to your natural lashes because of the constant excess weight the extensions put on them.
However, if the extensions applied have been the appropriate length and thickness for your natural lashes, you have been cleaning them gently with an oil-free cleanser and using a lash shampoo there is no reason that you cannot continue wearing extensions.
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.
It's generally recommended to give your lashes a break from extensions every 4 to 6 weeks. This allows your natural lashes to recover and prevents potential damage or thinning. However, the exact timing can vary based on individual lash health and how well you care for them.
Eyelash extensions are a widely accepted technique to enhance the appearance of the eyes and face, but they have some drawbacks. The most prevalent of these side effects include chemical conjunctivitis [6], allergies, pain, dermatitis, and conjunctivitis [7].
Lash extensions, if too heavy or applied incorrectly, can lead to breakage, thinning, or even loss of natural lashes over time. On the other hand, proponents of lash extensions often highlight the benefits when applied correctly, including enhancing volume and length without the need for mascara.
Dry eye syndrome, conjunctivitis, and other significant eye problems like Blepharitis, corneal disease, glaucoma, and styes can make our wonderful lash trip risky.
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.
Eyelashes have a relatively short lifespan, lasting only three to five months on average. This means that if your eyelashes are damaged from lash extensions, it will take approximately 16 weeks for them to fully regrow.
We recommend a minimum of two months rest from eyelash extensions to allow natural lashes to recover and for full regrowth.
A study conducted in Japan1 amongst women who wore eyelash extensions found that (97.5%) had one or more of these problems; dry eyes, itchy eyelids, tearing, burning sensation, lid swelling, and pain, casting of shadows in vision, misdirected eyelashes, purulent discharge and eyelashes falling out and into the eye.
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.
NovaLash adhesives are the only lash extension adhesives on the market that are proven to be formaldehyde-FREE as manufactured, packed, and delivered.
It's highly rare to see permanent damage to natural lashes when the lash artist applies the extensions properly, and when they are well taken care of by clients.
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.
For a more glamorous, bold appearance, extensions are the go-to option. Assess the current condition of your client's natural lashes. If they are weak or damaged, a Lash Lift might be a gentler choice, as extensions could further stress the lashes.
The duration of the break can vary depending on the individual's lash condition and how they respond to a rest period. Generally, a break of 4 to 6 weeks is recommended to allow for a complete growth cycle of the natural lashes. During the break, it's essential to follow proper cleansing and care routines.
Sticking lash extensions to lashes of different lengths leads to uneven tension and causes those lashes to fall out too soon. The result is a thinner, patchier lash line with fewer lashes left after extensions are removed – including short stubby lashes.
Eyelashes continue to grow throughout your life. However, they may become thinner and shorter as you age. More delicate lashes could be about the amount you have to start with and the length of the growth cycle. You may also notice that your lashes are not as curly as they once were.
Understand the Risks
The semi-permanent glue used to place extensions at a salon or found in drugstore eyelash strip products often contains formaldehyde. The ingredient can cause allergic reactions in some people. Consistent applications contribute to accelerated natural eyelash loss and permanent damage to follicles.
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.
Cons of eyelash extensions
"The worst I've seen (with eyelash extensions) are severe allergic reactions to the glue. ... It can cause a lot of pain, swelling, even blurry vision," says Brissette. If severe blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) occurs, the eyes can swell shut, the experts note.
Cons of eyelash extensions
Some of the more common drawbacks include: Irritation and infection risk – If proper sanitation and application requirements are not met, it's possible for irritation or infection to occur. Most lash technicians should do a “patch test” with the glue before the extensions are applied.
Client safety is paramount. If you have an active eye infection, such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, or a sty, you should not have lash extensions applied. Eye infections can become serious if left untreated, so it's essential to seek medical advice if you have signs of an active infection.
Eyelash serums are generally safe when used as directed. Always follow the instructions on the label and on the manufacturer's website. They are still chemically formulated and are not supposed to get into the eye at all.