EYELASH EXTENSIONS

Getting eyelash extensions can be intimidating to a lot of people. “You’re going to GLUE things to my EYE?” There’s something so vulnerable about laying in a bed or chair with your eyes closed while a technician slowly glues lash extensions to your eyelashes. Yet the results are gorgeous! Eyelash extensions might sound a little scary or high-maintenance, but actually they are very simple, very safe and a very easy way to get some huge wow factor into your look (while actually making your daily routine faster and easier and saving you time!). Eyelash extensions are great for almost anyone and everyone, even people with sparse or fine lashes. Whether you’re looking for a very natural look, or a glamorous look, both can easily be achieved with eyelash extensions.

EYELASH EXTENSION ALLERGIES

Some people worry about things going wrong with their eyelash extensions. One of the common worries people have is that they will be allergic to the lashes or the glue. Sometimes in the spring or fall people will report back to their lash technicians that they are allergic to the lashes or glue – they’re experiencing tenderness, irritation and/or swelling. This can even happen to people who have eyelash extensions and have never had an allergic reaction.

This can be scary, especially since most people assume it was the lashes or glue which caused the sensitivity. But actually that is almost never the case! Both the lashes and the glue used by any qualified technician have been carefully designed and tested by scientists and beauticians alike to ensure that even sensitive skin types will not be irritated or affected.  Before you have any lash technician apply lashes, be sure to ask them whether any of their products contain latex or formaldehyde, which are used in some glues and can be causes of reactions or irritations.  As long as they are free of those ingredients, you will be good to go!

SO, IS IT LASHES OR OTHER ALLERGIES?

If you are experiencing a sensitive reaction to eyelash extensions, the chances are you’re just actually suffering from seasonal allergies! In the fall many people become sensitive to ragweed, and in the spring it’s the blooming pollen in the air. Even if the symptoms seem directly tied to your eyelash extensions, it’s usually just a by-product of a compromised immune system. Your immune system is in overdrive, working incredibly hard to fight against sickness, weakness and the allergens in the air due to the season. You may experience puffiness, redness, irritation and sensitivity – but it likely isn’t your eyelash extensions – it’s your seasonal allergies!

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

The best way is to attack the cause – seasonal allergies. Here are few steps you can take:

  • Take your preferred antihistamine
  • Calm the irritated areas with cool water and cortisol creams
  • Avoid going outdoors if at all possible
  • Resist the urge to rub your eyes or pick at your lashes

This will only increase the sensitivity and may even cause irreparable damage to your extensions and natural lashes.

  • Lay still with a cold washcloth over your eyes until the irritation subsides
  • Use a soothing, oil-free cream to calm angry eyelids
  • See your lash technician if you truly believe that the eyelashes or the way they’re adhered is a problem

Basically what we’re saying is – you’re safe! Eyelash extensions are hypoallergenic (especially high quality products like Lash Bomb products), scientifically tested and very safe to be on and near your eyes. If you are experiencing irritation or allergy symptoms don’t panic!  Try taking an antihistamine and rinsing your face; you should be fine. If problems persist or you are especially concerned, contact your eyelash artist.

*If you don’t get relief, consider getting lashes removed until allergy season or anything else causing extreme stress on your body and immune system has passed.

Nikolette Moore