Eyelash Extensions

See why you might want to consider lash extensions for yourself.

1. Time Saver

Imagine waking up in the morning on a Sunday...You have to run to Target for some groceries for the week...but first you have to do your makeup....you know....in case you run into anyone! With lash extensions you don't need to apply anything. Aside from running a clean spoolie to brush your lash hairs into place, no mascara is necessary! Lash glue is fun! It's black and the hair that is applied to your lash is also black so until those babies grow out naturally, you don't need to put anything on those lashes.  

2. They make you look younger

Seriously! Think about it like this....what did your lashes look like when you were in your 20's? Long. Full. Amazing! Now....not so much...am I right? The best way to look younger is by having full lashes.

3.  They are beautiful and you will feel beautiful

Cosmetic companies have been working for many years to bring you longer fuller lashes because we all know that with mascara, your lashes just look that much better. Eyelash extensions even better! Making your lashes thick, dark, and full. You can choose a dramatic look or opt for something more natural, but whatever you choose, they are like your lashes, but better! Eyelash extensions last for about 4 weeks and require only a short time in the chair at the salon for upkeep.

What are the risks?

Let's start with the biggest question first. On the milder end, there can be side effects like itchiness and redness. The purpose of our eyelashes — much like our brows — is to keep out sweat, dirt, and dust to better protect our eyes. "Extensions, however, trap all of this debris, increasing risk of infections," optometrist Dr. Caryn Nearnberg explains. As debris accumulates, the chance for irritation increases.

Occasionally, more serious side effects can occur as well. According to Dr. Nearnberg, “Eyelash extensions can cause infections to the cornea and eyelids, as well as loss of your natural lashes." Applying extensions puts additional tension on the hair shaft, which can damage the hair follicle and slow down lash production.

One more thing to look out for: conjunctivitis and keratitis. This is due to “attached debris and bacteria that get trapped and stay in the lashes,” says Dr. Nearnberg, “The bacteria can also clog the oil glands and cause styes.” If you encounter any of these conditions, consult an eye doctor immediately, as you’ll need topical or oral antibiotics to treat inflamed and swollen lids.

Granted, all of this might sound like lash extensions will mean doom for your eye health, but plenty of people wear them regularly without issue. While the risks can happen, there's a significantly decreased chance of encountering them if you do your research. So:

What should I research?

As lash extensions become increasingly popular, you want to make sure you're in the hands of the pros and getting them in a hygienic environment. Dr. Nearnberg recommends that you “review the certifications and ensure that the salon is sanitary and a reputable establishment.”

Lash expert and owner of Envious Lashes, Clementina Richardson, notes that “depending on the state, the stylist also needs to be licensed, not just certified." Always check credentials as a potential customer and make sure that the salon is clean. (Other considerations include making sure your technician is wearing gloves and washing their hands frequently.)

"Besides licensing and certification, experience is crucial," Clementina says. "At least one year of experience is a must. Look closely at before and after pictures of the artist's work — there should be no evidence of visible adhesive or criss-crossing lashes, nor should there be any clumping of the lashes. There should never be multiple lashes attached to an extension."

How can I make sure I won't have an allergic reaction?

It's also important to ask about the glue that is being used to adhere the lashes. Some places actually use a formaldehyde-based glue, which can be toxic. "Most eyelash adhesive brands include the chemical formaldehyde," Dr. Nearnberg says. "If this kind of glue gets in the eye, it can irritate or scar the cornea." We recommend making sure that the glue your specialist is using is formaldehyde-free. “You can also ask the aesthetician to spot test on your inside wrist to make sure you are not allergic,” adds Dr. Nearnberg.