Eyelash extensions have become a major trend in the past few years and are now a part of many women’s regular beauty routines. Many of us have wives, kids, siblings who use them but how much do we really know about them? We’re going to give you the basic facts on eyelash extensions and the dangers you may not know about.
WHAT ARE THEY
Eyelash extensions can come in many forms. But the ones we are talking about today which known as the general term and are a semi-permanent alternative to other eyelash extension methods such as false eyelashes or wearing mascara. Eyelash extensions give the wearer a naturally fuller/longer look to their lashes and can be applied to look either natural or have a more intense effect.
Eyelash extensions are individual fibres, not a small group or a strip, which are glued onto the wearer’s natural lashes. Due to this, the application is very time consuming (generally lasting 2-3 hours) and can cost quite a bit. An application of a full set eyelash extensions can range from $50-150 depending on the technician, the materials, and the “volume” or “set” that you are going for. Following this, your new longer lashes are unable to become wet for at least 24 hours and must be treated with extreme care following this.
The majority of eyelash extensions are made from synthetic fibres such as nylon and are fused with your natural lashes with various adhesives. You can also opt for silk or mink lashes but these may come at a higher cost.
WHY DO PEOPLE GET THEM
Eyelash extensions are similar to any other fashion of beauty service in that they are of personal choice. Some people may be self-conscious of their eyelashes being too light or too thin and choose eyelash extensions over other conventional options such as mascara, fake lashes, or tinting. The main appeal of false lash extensions is the long term nature of the product in comparison to reapplying strips or mascara every day.
WHO APPLIES THEM AND WHERE
Eyelash technicians are located in most cities around Australia. It’s important to always remember going to a qualified lash technician who has been properly taught in application, removal, and hygiene practices. Lash technicians are often located in beauty studios if not owning their own and ou can find them by searching in Google, Instagram or Facebook.
HOW LONG DO THEY LAST
Unfortunately, even after lying still for 2 hours during your application and then paying the fees, these lashes still don’t last forever. Over time, the fake lashes will slowly fall out after using makeup, rubbing your eyes, and other general daily wear/tear. The extensions will last usually around 3 weeks before having to have get “refills” where you will have the old lashes removed by a technician and new ones put in their place. Refills can cost anywhere from $50-100 depending on your technician.
SO WHAT ARE THE DANGERS
LOSS OF EYELASHES
When taken care of, removed and treated correctly, the use of eyelash extensions shouldn’t cause your eyelashes to fall out. Your eyelashes naturally shed every 30 days however the use of extensions may speed this process up and cause permanent damage. If wanting to stop the use of eyelash extensions, you should still get the remaining extensions removed professionally. Not doing so will result in higher lash loss and potentially damaging the eyelashes you still have. Many women who have used eyelash extensions have discussed the struggle to “come off” them. Most users find after having eyelash extensions removed that they see their eyelashes as stubby and shorter than before and find they have to use serums to get their natural eyelashes back to their condition before extensions.
BLEPHARITIS
Blepharitis is the inflammation of the eyelid in which the user can experience red, irritated, itchy, or dry eyes. When contracting blepharitis during the use of eyelash extensions, symptoms include inflammation of the eyelid which affects eyelashes and potentially impacts tear production. This is due to the oil glands of the inner eyelid becoming inflamed. Although eyelash extensions are not the sole cause of blepharitis, it is very common to obtain the disease whilst using them. To treat this, we recommend seeing using products such as Blephadex Wipes or Blephadex Foam Cleanser to help heal your eye.
BACTERIAL CONJUNCTIVITIS
Bacterial conjunctivitis is a common type of red-eye, caused by bacteria that infect the eye through various sources of contamination. Bacteria is of high concern with lash extensions due to its contagious nature and the bacteria that live naturally on your eyelashes. “It only takes 1 technician to not properly sterilise their tools to potentially distribute conjunctivitis to hundreds of clients across Adelaide,” says Paul Fotkou. Often the appeal of eyelash extensions is the minimal effort required to have beautiful looking eyelashes every day. However, it is this mentality that causes people to look after their eyes less well thus contracting conjunctivitis. Not everybody who has eyelash extensions will develop conjunctivitis. However, a significant amount of clients do, enough to bring it to our attention at Adelaide City Optometrist.
ALLERGIC REACTIONS/CONTACT DERMATITIS
Some users of false eyelash extensions may suffer from swollen eyelids, itchiness, redness, irritation, or tearing symptoms we simply put down to the effects of our new lashes. However, this is often caused by contact dermatitis or allergies to the lash adhesives implemented around the eye area. Depending on the severity, symptoms may last from a few hours to multiple days. If suffering from any of the symptoms above, you should see your eye doctor or optometrist as soon as possible to speak about treatment plans. Potential treatments include drops, ointments, cold compresses, or creams.
SO HOW DO I CARE FOR THEM?
Whether you’re an eyelash extension regular or a newbie, caring for your lashes and preventing these potential problems should be a part of everyone’s routine. Looking after your lashes properly will help to effectively maintain your natural eyelash health, make your eyelash extensions last longer and reduce the refill time/cost of up-keeping them.
If you’re suffering from any of the eye conditions above, you can start your eyelash recovery by cleaning your eyelids with our Blephadex Foam Cleanser. If you’re unsure of the condition of your eyes after your last application and are after a professional’s opinion, be sure to book an appointment with us or call on 08 8224 0819. It’s always better to have these things checked out sooner rather than later when it may be too late.