Ultra long, thick eyelashes might be in vogue but are they worth the expense – and the risk to health?
Our natural eyelashes perform important functions. The eye is exposed to the elements so it’s a window for bacteria and viruses to enter the body – potentially causing death.
Eyelashes protect our eyes by diverting air away from the surface of the eyeball, keeping airborne particles out of the eye by making us blink, as well making sure the eyeball stays lubricated.
Eyelash extensions are individual fibres that are attached to each natural lash, one at a time.
Eyelash extensions can be made of different types of material, including natural fibres such as silk and hair from mink or horses or synthetic fibres such as nylon or plastic. The extensions are attached using glue, which can cause problems.
Most technicians will do a pre-appointment patch test, usually on the wrist or behind the ear, to check for allergies to the glue; however, even if there’s no allergic reaction, the chemicals in the glue can still be irritating on the sensitive eye area and the weight of the glue can cause irritation of the eyelashes.
Proper application is paramount. There have been reports of people gluing their eyelids together with eyelash adhesive. Concerningly, given that the adhesive is applied so close to the eye, eyelash glue should never come into contact with the eye’s surface.
According to one study, over 60% of women reported keratoconjunctivitis – an eye condition that involves inflammation of both your cornea and conjunctiva at the same time – after getting eyelash adhesive in their eyes. The same study reported 40% of women had an allergic reaction to the glue.
www.sciencealert.com/eyelash-extensions-can-be-seriously-dangerous-expert-warns