Allergic Reaction To Eyelash Extensions

Eyelash extension is a savior to women who have thin, short, and dull-looking eyelashes. Although there are other options available in the market that have the same purpose as the eyelash extension, their results differ. Continue reading for our Allergic Reaction To Eyelash Extensions information guide.

Having eyelash extensions makes a woman feel more confident about herself. Aside from it making the boring lashes thick and curly, it also makes the eyes bigger and brighter. 

Before anything else, what really is eyelash extensions?

Eyelash extensions are cosmetic make-up applications that lengthen, curl, fill gaps, and thicken natural lashes. Mink, silk, synthetic, human, or horsehair are some of the materials that can be used to make the extensions.

The most common way of putting the extensions is to use a specific adhesive to adhere the extensions to the natural lash 1–2 mm from the base without making contact with the eyelids.

Despite the awesome effect of this method, there are things that you need to know before trying this. One of these is the Allergic Reaction To Eyelash Extensions. 

Eyelash extensions may cause or trigger allergic reactions for some individuals. These issues can lead to serious problems that can put the health of your eye at risk. If an unusual reaction occurs, it’s crucial to remove the eyelash extensions immediately and seek health professionals as soon as possible.

To know more about the Allergic Reaction To Eyelash Extensions, continue reading. 

How can you know if you’re having an allergic reaction?

Eyelash extensions may cause allergic reactions similar to other contact allergies, commonly known as contact dermatitis. The symptoms can appear anywhere from a few minutes to several hours after the cosmetologist applies for the extensions. Eyelash extensions can cause an allergic response in one or both eyes. If both eyes are experiencing this, one eye may be more affected than the other. The common symptoms you might encounter are redness, itching, and swelling either on the eyelid or in the entire eye itself.

What allergen may it be?

Most people are having allergic reactions to the adhesive or glue that holds the eyelashes in place. This adhesive frequently leaks onto the eyelid or into the eye which causes such reactions.

In 2012, a small study conducted by the researchers showed that the adhesive or glue used by the cosmetologist to apply the eyelash extensions caused allergic responses in the participants’ eyelids or eyes.

The researchers found that the formaldehyde, which causes keratoconjunctivitis (inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva), was present in all of the goods.

To add to formaldehyde, an individual may be allergic to benzoic acid or lead that may be found in certain cosmetic products.

Asking the cosmetologist about the ingredients in the glue to be used in the procedure is recommended by the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. Also, they suggested using formaldehyde-free cosmetics and not washing your face for a few hours after getting eyelash extensions to avoid an allergic response.

What are the possible allergic reactions in the eyelids?

According to a study published in 2019 by PubMed Central, allergic blepharitis was the most common problem connected with eyelash extensions. A person with allergic blepharitis may have the following symptoms:

• Irritation
• Itchiness
• Tearing
• Redness
• Swelling

What are the possible allergic reactions in the eyes?

Allergic responses in the eyes can result in a variety of symptoms, such as:

• Watery eyes
• Irritation
• Redness
• Itchiness

The allergic reaction may happen during the application process, or it can take between several hours and a few days to occur. An allergic reaction can result from direct contact with the glue or the vapors of the glue.

Treatment

In the case of a mild reaction, the symptoms may be treated at home. You can try the following:

• Antihistamines
• Hydrocortisone cream or ointment
• Eye drops
• Cold compress

If you are experiencing itchiness, resist the temptation to rub your eyes, for it might worsen the situation.

What are the ways on how to prevent allergic reactions from happening?

The best way to avoid allergic reactions from happening is to choose a licensed cosmetologist who is capable of doing the procedure safely and accurately. It’s also advised to inspect the salon for basic hygiene. For the reason that it’s possible for the technique to create such reactions or infections in your eye, especially if it’s done with dirty equipment or in an untidy environment.

In addition, during the application process, you must keep your eyes closed. This should keep the glue from getting into your eyes.

Moreover, the glue’s vapors can irritate the eyes. Irritation can occur after having contact with the adhesive or the fumes.

Some people are more sensitive to eyelash extensions than others. People with specific conditions or risk factors should avoid receiving eyelash extensions, according to the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. Individuals who fall within this include those who:

• have trichotillomania, a condition in which people want to pull out their eyelashes
• have an allergy to latex or any of the ingredients in the adhesive or lashes 
• have alopecia 
• are already experiencing inflammation or irritation in the eyes or have open wounds on them 
• are receiving radiation or chemotherapy treatment

More to read:

• How To Clean Eyelash Extensions
• Eyelash Extensions Aftercare: The Do’s and Don’ts
• 3 Easy Ways on How to Get Off Eyelash Glue
• How Often Should You Apply Eyelash Serum?

Conlusion

In all of the things we want to engage with, especially if it involves our body parts, we must know everything before it’s too late. All of the information you need to know about Allergic Reaction To Eyelash Extensions is written above, so you might as well share this article with your friends who also want to try eyelash extensions for the first time.