Eyelash extensions, while immensely popular for enhancing eye aesthetics, have been linked to significant health risks.
Despite their popularity, offering a long-lasting solution for maintaining thick, full lashes without makeup, extensions can lead to serious health concerns.
A study published in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface highlights the health hazards associated with ultra-long, thick eyelashes.
Natural eyelashes serve to protect the eyes from bacteria, viruses, and airborne particles. Extensions, typically made from materials like silk, mink, or nylon, are adhered to natural lashes with glue, which can cause irritation and allergic reactions.
Proper application is essential to avoid mishaps, such as accidentally gluing eyelids together. It's critical that the eyelash glue never touches the eye's surface due to potential damage.
The study indicates that over 60% of women experienced keratoconjunctivitis after using eyelash adhesive, with 40% suffering from allergic reactions.
Alarmingly, some adhesives contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, with 75% of professional and some consumer glues testing positive for this substance. Common complications from extensions include blepharitis, styes, and lash mite infestations, often resulting from poor hygiene practices.
Eyelash serums, particularly those containing prostaglandin, have gained popularity for enhancing natural lashes, initially stemming from glaucoma treatments that incidentally promoted lash growth.
The Metro reported that the eyelash extension market was valued at $1.36 billion in 2020, with projections to reach $2.31 billion by 2028. Eyelash extensions remain one of the top beauty treatments requested by consumers, evidenced by a 795% increase in searches for Russian lashes in 2019.
While eyelash extensions offer a cosmetic appeal, it's crucial to be aware of the associated health risks.