Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 3 minutes
Eyelash extensions are a popular way to get longer, fuller lashes without daily makeup. But are eyelash extensions bad for your eyes? If applied or maintained improperly, they can lead to irritation, infection, or even long-term damage.
In this blog, we break down the risks, explain how to protect your eye health, and share what your eye doctor wants you to know about this popular beauty trend.
Youth Vision provides comprehensive vision care for kids and adults at our locations in Denver, Aurora, Hampden and Thornton.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Eyelash extensions come with real health risks, including infection, lash loss, and irritation. To protect your eye health, go to an experienced technician, use clean products, and consult your eye doctor at the first sign of trouble.
What Are Eyelash Extensions?
Eyelash extensions are synthetic, silk, or mink fibers glued to your natural lashes. They are applied one-by-one with a special eyelash adhesive and last anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks depending on the average eyelash growth cycle.
How Eyelash Extensions Affect Your Eye Health
Your eyes are sensitive, and anything that touches or comes near them can have an impact. That includes glue, tools, and the lashes themselves.
Here is what can go wrong:
- Irritation from glue: Some eyelash extension adhesives contain formaldehyde or other harsh chemicals that can cause burning, itching, or redness.
- Allergic reactions: Even adhesives labeled as hypoallergenic can cause allergic reactions, especially in those with sensitive skin or meibomian gland dysfunction.
- Corneal abrasions: Poor technique or rough handling can scratch your cornea. This can lead to pain, blurry vision, and bacterial infection.
- Eyelash extension infection: Contaminated tools or dirty environments can introduce bacteria that lead to serious eye infections, swollen eyelids, and complications of eyelash extensions.
- Lash damage: The added weight of synthetic lashes can weaken the natural eyelash at the follicle, causing permanent lash loss or absence of eyelash growth.
Common Risk Factors to Consider
Some people are more likely to experience complications from lash extensions. If you fall into one of these groups, take extra precautions:
- If you wear contact lenses: Frequent handling of your eyes increases the chance of introducing foreign objects and bacteria.
- If you have dry eyes or allergies: Lash adhesives and synthetic materials can irritate sensitive skin and inflamed oil glands.
- If you rub your eyes often: This can dislodge single lashes, damage real eyelashes, and irritate the eye shape and eyelid margins.
- If you have a history of eye infections or blepharitis: This condition makes your eyes more sensitive to irritation and bacteria. Most eye doctors recommend avoiding eyelash extensions until the issue is well managed.
How to Use Eyelash Extensions Safely
If you still want beautiful eyelashes for special occasions, follow these steps to reduce the risks:
- Go to an experienced technician: Make sure the lash technician uses sterile tools and works in a clean environment.
- Ask about the glue ingredients: If you have sensitive eyes, ask about their products and if they have options for individuals with sensitivities.
- Clean your lashes daily: Prevent buildup around hair follicles and avoid clogging your oil glands. Ask your lash technician for tips on how to clean your lashes.
- Do not pull, twist, or rub your lashes: Pulling on lash extensions can remove natural lashes and disrupt the growth cycle of eyelashes.
Symptoms You Should Not Ignore
Call your eye doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms after getting lash extensions:
- Persistent redness, itching, or burning
- Swelling around the eyelids or signs of infection
- Pain, blurry vision, or light sensitivity
- Discharge or crusting near the lash line
Even minor eye issues can escalate into serious complications if not treated promptly.
Are There Safer Alternatives?
If you want to avoid the risks associated with eyelash extensions while still enhancing your look, consider these alternatives:
- Lash serums: Stimulate growth of your natural eyelash over time.
- Magnetic strip eyelash extensions: Avoid glue entirely and reduce the risk of irritation.
- Lash tinting or lifting: Add color on eyelashes and lift your natural lashes without synthetic lashes or adhesives.
These options may be ideal if you are not a candidate for eyelash extensions due to sensitive skin or past allergic reactions.
| Pro Tip from an Eye DoctorYour eye health should always come first. There is a strong connection between eyelash extensions and potential complications, but with proper care and the right lash technician, many risks can be avoided. Still, eye doctors often see patients who suffer from unnecessary infections or damage caused by poor practices or fake eyelashes.If you want an expert opinion or are dealing with symptoms, book an appointment with us at Youth Vision. We accept Medicaid and provide care for both children and adults. |
Book an Eye Exam at Youth Vision
Regular eye exams are an important part of protecting your vision at every age. Whether it’s time for a checkup or you have specific concerns, we’re here to help you see clearly and stay healthy
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at any of our locations:
- Denver Youth Vision, located at 1400 Grove Street, Denver, CO 80204, 303-825-2295
- Aurora Youth Vision, located at 14251 E. 6th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80011, 303-343-3133
- Thornton Youth Vision, located at 9674 Washington Street, Thornton, CO 80229, 303-953-880
- Hampden Youth Vision, located at 7400 East Hampden Ave. Unit C1, Denver, CO 80231, 720-866-9906
FAQs
Do fake eyelashes ruin your eyelashes?
They can if used frequently or removed incorrectly. Over time, repeated use of lash glue and improper removal can weaken or pull out natural lashes.
What do eye doctors think about lash extensions?
Most eye doctors agree that while lash extensions are not inherently dangerous, they carry risks and should be done carefully. They recommend good hygiene and avoiding extensions if you have ongoing eye conditions.
What is a good age to get eyelash extensions?
There is no official minimum age, but most salons require clients to be at least 16–18 years old. Younger individuals should consult a parent and a healthcare provider before getting extensions.
Can you have eyelash extensions with blepharitis?
Eyelash extensions are generally not recommended if you have active blepharitis. This condition causes inflammation of the eyelid margins, which can make your eyes more sensitive to irritation, bacteria, and allergic reactions.
