The beauty industry has continued to grow through the years as the technology continues to adapt and change. YouTube has continued to create a platform for artists to expand what consumers know about beauty and create new lines within the industry. The global cosmetics market is worth an estimated $532 billion, with projections for it to reach $863 billion by 2024.
As the market continues to grow, so does our job as optical providers. We wanted to provide some education to our patients – specifically about eyelashes! Over the last decade the practice of false eyelashes will continue to expand and grow into four categories; extensions, falsies, serums, and lift/tints. We want to address each, and the risks associated with these methods in addition to how to keep your eyes safe!
Eyelash extensions are the process of gluing a cluster of false eyelashes onto a human’s eyelashes. This process is typically costly and takes a lot of time. The average eyelash extensions costs around $400 and takes three to four hours. In addition, refills should be done every two weeks which cost an additional average of $50. Although these are the most natural looking type of eyelash enhancement, they do come with risks, such as:
Dermatitis
Conjuctivitis
Blepharitis
Demodex (eyelash mites)
Dry eye symptoms (itchiness, inflammation)
Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)
Madarosis (natural eyelash loss)
These conditions tend to have a higher rate of contraction in individuals who do not follow the “rules” of eyelash extension care. Such as, putting on makeup over the eyelash extensions. In addition, not getting the refills every two weeks can also create a higher incidence of contracting eye issues. Following the guidelines for false eyelashes can decrease your risk, so if you are looking into extensions also budget for refills every two weeks.
We are not here to discourage the enhancement of eyelashes, but we want to educate our patients on the reality that comes with those extensions.
The next most common type of eyelash enhancement is called eyelash falsies. The difference in eyelash extensions and falsies is that falsies are a strip of eyelashes glued onto the eyelid margin, going over the natural eyelashes. Some beauty professionals even glue these under the eyelashes to create a more lifting look.
These are often used for daily make-up routines to create a more dramatic look. The concern with this beauty routine is the glue. Many glues contain items I wouldn’t want close to my eyes, such as cyanoacrylate (as an adhesive) and formaldehyde or formaldehyde derivatives. These chemicals are typically the culprit for creating eye issues on the eyelid and eyes. Additionally, issues can occur from the weight of the eyelashes. This can change natural blinking patterns and result in eye issues.
Some of these eye issues include:
Abrasions
Keratitis (from chemical contact)
Dermatitis
Conjuctivitis
Blepharitis
Demodex (eyelash mites)
Dry eye symptoms (itchiness, inflammation)
Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)
Madarosis (natural eyelash loss)
A better approach to this beauty technique would be to use magnetic eyelashes. This can avoid the side effects associated with the eyelash glue, but keep in mind it does not eliminate the risk to all of the mentioned eye complications.
Some people are blessed with long and beautiful eyelashes! These patients tend to be more likely to use the lift and tint method for eyelash enhancements. These are chemicals added to natural eyelashes to crate darker lashes and permanent waves.
The chemicals typically used are ammonium thioglycolate, as they create a permanent curl to the eyelash. Tinting dyes typically use para-phenylenediamine (PPD) which is part of a chemical class called aromatic amines. These chemicals are typically found in hair dyes. If you use this method, you will most likely recognize that hair salon smell!
These methods have a longer lifespan then the extensions or falsies. They typically last or need to be repeated every two to three months. We recommend if you choose this method, to choose a reputable salon as the risk of contracting eye issues is increased with at home or salons not following standard care procedures.
If you do get solution in your eye, please contact your optician.
The final method we are going to cover is growth serums. The most well-known brand is Latissee, which does require a prescription. This is because the main component is also found in glaucoma medications. Potiental side effects with this ingredient are:
Conjunctival and eyelid hyperemia
Burning or irritation
Prostaglandin periorbitopathy
Loss of periorbital fat
Eye color change
The longer and more exposure to eyelash serums, the more likely you are to develop an eye issue such as MGD or meibography. It is always a good practice to take a before photo and continue to document your eyes as you continue the use of growth serums to ensure that your glands and eye color is not changing over time.
There are over the counter options for eyelash growth serums. These typically use polypeptide as their main ingredient. Research has shown there is not a long-term side effect that we are aware of at this time associated with polypeptide.
To treat these side effects, it is going to depend on which eye issues develop associated with this beauty routine. With any eye disease or issue, please contact on optician to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.
If you feel you may be affected by any of the side effects listed above, please contact our offices for an eye exam and treatment plan today!
