Getting eyelash extensions can be intimidating to a lot of people, there’s just something so vulnerable about laying on a bed with your eyes closed while a technician 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, safe, and an easy way to add a huge WOW factor to your look. They also make your daily routine faster and easier, saving you time! Eyelash extensions are great for just about everyone, even people with sparse or fine lashes. Whether you’re looking for a natural look, a dramatic look, or a glamorous look, all can be easily achieved with eyelash extensions.
EYELASH EXTENSION ALLERGIES
One of the most common worries people have is that they will be allergic to the lashes or the glue. Sometimes, especially 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 also 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 reputable 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 reaction to eyelash extensions, chances are you’re actually just 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 the problem
Basically what we’re saying is – you’re safe! Eyelash extensions are hypoallergenic (especially high quality products) and scientifically tested to be very safe 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 technician.
*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.