Lash Extensions: Beware

Lash extensions have become an increasingly popular beauty enhancement, but as with any cosmetic treatment, it’s essential to understand both the benefits and potential risks. Here’s everything you need to know about lash extensions, how they’re done, and the safer alternatives to achieving luscious lashes.

How Lash Extensions Are Done

Lash extensions involve attaching synthetic, silk, or mink lashes to your natural eyelashes using a semi-permanent adhesive. Each lash is applied individually for a customized look. Here are the primary types:

1. Classic Extensions: One synthetic lash is glued to each natural lash for a natural, lengthened look.

2. Volume Extensions: Multiple thinner extensions are fanned and applied to a single lash for a fuller, more dramatic effect.

3. Hybrid Extensions: A mix of classic and volume lashes, offering a textured and multidimensional appearance.

4. Mega Volume: Ultra-lightweight lashes are used to create extreme fullness and density.

5. Outer Corner Enhancements: Extensions applied only to the outer corners of the eyes for a subtle lift.

The process can take 1–2 hours and requires touch-ups every 2–3 weeks to maintain the look as natural lashes shed. I tried them many years ago- never again! Keep reading :)

Why Lash Extensions Can Be Harmful

Thinning

Eyelashes grow in a natural cycle composed of three phases:

1. Anagen (Growth Phase): Active growth of the hair follicle.

2. Catagen (Transition Phase): The follicle begins to shrink, and growth stops.

3. Telogen (Resting Phase): The lash remains in place until it sheds naturally, allowing a new lash to grow.

Lash extensions can disrupt this cycle by:

• Premature Shedding: The weight of extensions can cause natural lashes in the telogen phase to shed prematurely, before the follicle is ready to produce a new lash.

• Prolonged Resting Phase: Over time, repeated use of lash extensions may extend the telogen phase, delaying the regrowth of new lashes.

• Stress to Follicles: The adhesive and weight can damage the lash follicles, leading to reduced ability to produce healthy lashes, over time, causing traction alopecia.

Beyond disruption of cycle, extensions can contribute to lash thinning through these mechanisms:

1. Chemical Damage from Adhesives: Lash glues often contain harsh chemicals, such as formaldehyde and cyanoacrylates, which can damage the skin around the lash line. This irritation may affect the follicle’s ability to support healthy lash growth.

2. Mechanical Damage: Improper removal of extensions, such as pulling or rubbing, can physically damage or pluck natural lashes. This trauma may lead to thinning or scarring of the lash line.

3. Chronic Inflammation: Prolonged exposure to adhesives and repeated treatments can cause low-grade chronic inflammation around the follicles. Over time, this can weaken the follicle and slow lash regrowth.

4. Blocked Follicles: Build-up of debris, adhesive residue, or lack of proper cleaning can block hair follicles, stunting growth and contributing to thinner lashes.

Infection

Improper hygiene during application or aftercare can lead to bacterial or fungal infections. The warm, moist environment near the lash line is particularly conducive to microbial growth.

Other

Studies indicate that lash glues can contain formaldehyde or cyanoacrylate, irritants, and allergens. These chemicals may cause:

• Allergic contact dermatitis: Red, itchy, swollen skin.

• Irritant contact dermatitis: Direct damage to the delicate skin of the eyelids.

• Styes or chalazia: Blocked oil glands in the eyelid, often resulting from glue residue or improper cleaning.

Safer Alternatives to Lash Extensions

Latisse (Bimatoprost)

Latisse is an FDA-approved prescription serum that stimulates lash growth by prolonging the anagen (growth) phase of the lash cycle. Applied nightly along the lash line, Latisse can increase lash length, fullness, and darkness within 4–8 weeks. It’s safe when used as directed, though side effects like eye redness or darkening of the eyelid skin may occur in some users.

Falsies (my vote!)

Modern false lashes are an excellent alternative for enhancing lash volume without damaging your natural lashes. My favorite type is:

• Lily Lashes Self-Adhesive Falsies: These stick-on lashes eliminate the need for glue, reducing the risk of irritation and styes.

Best Mascaras

• Drugstore Favorites:

  • Maybelline Lash Sensational: A cult favorite for volume and curl.

  • L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise: Affordable and creates a dramatic look.

• High-End Picks:

  • Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara: Loved for its thickening formula.

  • Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl: Provides a professional curl and lift.

While lash extensions can enhance your appearance temporarily, understanding their potential impact on your lash health is critical. Choosing alternatives like serums, falsies, or high-quality mascaras can help you maintain the health and integrity of your natural lashes.