Natural eyelashes play an important protective role for the eyes, shielding them from bacteria and viruses that can cause infections. These tiny hairs redirect air and airborne particles, triggering the blink reflex and ensuring moisture for the eye surface.

Eyelash extensions are additional fibers individually attached to natural eyelashes. They can be made from various materials such as silk, animal hair like mink or horsehair, and synthetic materials like nylon and plastic. The adhesive used for attachment can cause irritation.

Most professionals conduct a patch test for adhesive sensitivity prior to appointments, typically on the wrist or behind the ear, to check for skin reaction. However, even in the absence of visible allergic reactions, the chemicals present in the adhesive can be irritating to the sensitive skin around the eyes, and the weight of the adhesive itself can cause discomfort.

Accurate application of the adhesive is crucial to avoid issues. There have been cases where individuals accidentally glued their eyelids together using eyelash glue. Given that the adhesive is applied very close to the eye, care must be taken to avoid contact with the eye surface.

One study found that over 60% of women experienced keratoconjunctivitis – inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva – after eyelash glue entered their eyes. The same research discovered that 40% of women had an allergic reaction to the adhesive.

In some cases, nail glue, which is significantly stronger, is sold as eyelash glue or used in its place. In the most shocking instances, eyelids have been glued together using super glue intended for eyelash extensions.

Eyelash glues can pose health risks. One study tested 37 eyelash adhesives and found formaldehyde present in 75% of professional adhesives and in four out of 17 consumer adhesives. Some adhesives containing formaldehyde did not list it as an ingredient.

Preservatives in adhesive can cause toxic conjunctivitis and conjunctival erosion, a painful condition that can affect vision.

The most common complication with eyelash extensions is blepharitis – inflammation or irritation of the eyelids. The edges of the eyelids, where eyelashes grow, contain follicles with two types of glands that produce antimicrobial substances to prevent bacterial buildup.

Alterations to natural eyelashes can disrupt this process, leading to bacterial accumulation that causes blepharitis. Additionally, adhesive or bacteria can block follicles, potentially causing a stye to develop.

Poor hygiene in salons can lead to eyelash mite infestation. Most people have a certain number of Demodex mites naturally, but poor hygiene of eyelash tools can cause infestation, especially if the function of natural eyelashes is impaired.

Even expert removal of eyelash extensions can damage natural eyelashes.

Some people prefer eyelash growth serums over extensions. Serums containing prostaglandins have become popular because they can significantly increase the length, thickness, and darkness of natural eyelashes.

These serums originate from treatments for glaucoma, where fluid buildup in the eye affects vision. It has been found that glaucoma patients using prostaglandin eye drops have thicker, longer, and darker eyelashes.

More recently, prostaglandin analogs – similar molecules – have become common. However, both types of products can pose health risks. They can change the color of the iris and cause loss of fat tissue around the eye – known as prostaglandin-induced periorbitopathy – which can give the eyes a sunken appearance and worsen the appearance of dark circles.

If you decide to enhance your eyelashes, it is important to visit an experienced technician in a professional salon with impeccable hygiene – and if you value your natural eyelashes, avoid doing it regularly.