Eyelash extensions are generally safe when applied by a trained professional using quality products. However, because the procedure takes place near your eyes, understanding potential risks and knowing how to protect yourself is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know about lash extension safety, from pre-appointment considerations to recognising warning signs during and after your visit.
Understanding the Risks
While complications from professional lash extensions are relatively rare, being aware of potential issues helps you make informed decisions and seek prompt treatment if problems occur. The most common concerns include:
- Allergic reactions: Some clients develop sensitivity to the cyanoacrylate adhesive or latex in under-eye pads
- Irritation: Fumes from the adhesive can cause temporary redness or watering
- Infections: Poor hygiene practices can introduce bacteria to the eye area
- Natural lash damage: Improperly applied extensions can break or pull out natural lashes
- Blepharitis: Inadequate cleaning can lead to eyelid inflammation
Consult your eye doctor before getting lash extensions if you have blepharitis, dry eye syndrome, trichotillomania, alopecia areata affecting your lashes, or are undergoing chemotherapy. These conditions may affect the safety or suitability of extensions.
The Importance of Patch Testing
A patch test involves applying a small amount of lash adhesive to your skin (usually behind the ear or on the inner arm) 24-48 hours before your appointment. While not all salons offer patch tests, and reactions can develop even after negative results, this step can identify severe allergies before full application.
Signs of a positive reaction during patch testing include:
- Redness or swelling at the test site
- Itching or burning sensations
- Rash development within 24-48 hours
- Blistering or skin changes
If you experience any of these symptoms, do not proceed with lash extension application. Consider discussing alternative adhesive formulas with your technician, though be aware that true cyanoacrylate allergies may preclude lash extensions entirely.
Choosing a Safe Salon
The single most important factor in lash extension safety is selecting a qualified, hygienic salon. Before booking, evaluate potential salons using these criteria:
Hygiene Standards
- Clean, organised workspace with sanitised tools
- Fresh, disposable items for each client (eye pads, mascara wands, adhesive rings)
- Technicians washing hands before service
- Proper ventilation to disperse adhesive fumes
- Lash beds with clean, freshly changed linens
Professional Credentials
- Training certificates from recognised academies displayed
- Evidence of ongoing education and skill development
- Insurance coverage for lash services
- Knowledge of contraindications and when to decline service
- What training and certifications does your technician have?
- What brand of adhesive do you use, and what are its ingredients?
- Do you offer patch testing?
- What is your sterilisation process for tools?
- How do you handle allergic reactions?
Red Flags During Your Appointment
Trust your instincts during your lash appointment. If something feels wrong, speak up or leave. Warning signs of unprofessional or unsafe practices include:
- Multiple lash attachment: Extensions should never be glued to multiple natural lashes (called "stickies"), as this damages lash growth and causes pain
- Extensions touching your eyelid: Properly placed extensions should sit slightly above your lash line, never on the skin
- Excessive adhesive: You shouldn't see visible globs or feel heavy clumps on your lashes
- Pain or stinging: The application should be completely painless - any discomfort indicates a problem
- Rushed application: A full set takes 90-150 minutes; significantly faster times suggest corners being cut
- Sharing tools between clients: Tweezers and other tools should be sterilised between each client
Keep your eyes completely closed throughout the entire application. Opening your eyes exposes them to adhesive fumes, which can cause irritation, redness, and watering. If you need to communicate with your technician, speak without opening your eyes.
Post-Application Warning Signs
Some mild irritation immediately after application is normal as the adhesive finishes curing. However, certain symptoms indicate a problem requiring attention:
Seek Immediate Care If You Experience:
- Severe swelling of eyelids or surrounding area
- Intense itching that doesn't subside after 24 hours
- Vision changes or blurred vision
- Discharge from your eyes (especially if coloured or thick)
- Pain that worsens rather than improves
- Rash spreading beyond the eye area
Normal vs. Concerning Symptoms
In the first 24 hours, slight redness along the lash line and minor sensitivity are common and typically resolve on their own. However, symptoms that persist beyond 48 hours or intensify over time warrant professional evaluation. When in doubt, contact your lash technician and, if symptoms are severe, visit a healthcare provider or optometrist.
Safe Removal
Never attempt to pull or pick off your lash extensions. This removes your natural lashes along with the extensions, causing damage that can take months to repair. If you need extensions removed:
- Return to your lash technician for professional removal
- Use an oil-based product to gradually loosen extensions at home (this takes several days)
- Allow extensions to shed naturally with your lash cycle
Your extensions should feel lightweight and comfortable. Each extension should be attached to a single natural lash with appropriate distance from your eyelid. Your eyes should not be red, irritated, or watering after the adhesive has cured. Your natural lashes should remain healthy and intact when extensions eventually shed.
Protecting Yourself Long-Term
To maintain eye health while enjoying lash extensions:
- Clean your lashes daily with appropriate products
- Attend regular fill appointments every 2-3 weeks
- Take periodic breaks from extensions to let natural lashes rest
- Report any persistent issues to your technician and healthcare provider
- Keep records of products used in case of future reactions
Lash extensions can be a wonderful beauty enhancement when proper safety protocols are followed. By choosing reputable technicians, understanding potential risks, and maintaining good aftercare habits, you can enjoy beautiful lashes while protecting your precious eyesight and natural lash health.