Allergy to eyelash extensions

You've been getting gorgeous lashes every 3 weeks for years, but one day the unexpected happened: you noticed that your eyes were red, swollen, and itchy. Our topic today is allergy to eyelash extensions.

Unfortunately, no one is immune from the risk of allergic reactions. Over the years of work, in my practice there have also been cases when I had to remove eyelashes from several old clients. It's never easy, because we emotionally connect with our clients. In a way, they become members of the family of our beauty world. :( Therefore, today I would like to share with you information about what you need to know about allergies to eyelash extensions, and whether the eyelashes themselves are always the cause.

Seasonal allergies

Sometimes clients think that an allergic reaction is caused by eyelash extensions, when in fact they suffer from seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies can develop at any time, even if you haven't had them before, or haven't had them for years.

It is also quite common for allergies to develop within about a year of moving to a new area, because your body does not have natural antibodies to local pollen, as it did in your previous place of residence. If you notice that your eyes have become more sensitive, it is best to refrain from eye extensions during allergy season.

If you suspect that you have seasonal allergies, instead of visiting an eyelash extension specialist, it would be more relevant to make an appointment with a doctor.

Allergy to eyelash extensions happens

Unfortunately, some people do get allergic reactions to eyelash extensions, especially to the cyanoacrylates found in the glue used for the extensions. If so, then your allergy will only show up as a result of eyelash extensions, and most likely in the form of swelling and irritation along the lash line and eyelids.

And again, disappointing news, an allergy to extensions can occur at any time: after the first extension, and after years of experience wearing artificial eyelashes. If you and your doctor have ruled out seasonal allergies, then most likely the reason lies in the extension.

Is there a special eyelash extension glue for allergy prone clients?

At the moment, there is a glue on sale with a low amount of cyanoacrylate, created specifically for people with hypersensitivity. But since the allergen is still present in the composition, the possibility of an allergy is not excluded. Also, these types of glues usually don't stay on the lashes longer than 4-7 days, and in my opinion, in this case, there is not much point in extensions.

What to do if you are allergic to eyelash extensions

Once you realize that your allergic reaction is caused by eyelash extensions, it is unwise to continue doing so. Trying to remove them yourself by pulling or plucking will cause more damage to your lashes. Plus, you won't be able to remove all the adhesive yourself, so your eyes are still in contact with the allergen. I recommend calling your stylist and having your lash extensions removed the same day.

If your skin is still itchy or red after removing your lashes, I suggest using a small amount of aloe vera gel. Aloe vera has been proven to help reduce redness, itching, and burning.

Most clients also take antihistamines such as Loratadine for example. It helps relieve allergy symptoms such as redness, irritation, and swelling. Please do not self-medicate, but consult your doctor before taking any medication and follow the directions carefully to ensure proper dosage.

Eyelash extension alternatives

Having to remove lash extensions however doesn't mean you have to give up full, long, and beautiful lashes entirely. How about alternatives? Use a good eyelash serum. It can make your natural lashes longer, darker and fuller without extensions.

Try curling and coloring your natural lashes. Curling your lashes gently curls your lashes up, making it appear longer and giving your eyes a beautiful, expressive look. Now there are many convenient devices for curling eyelashes, ranging from ordinary tweezers to special eyelash curlers. It's up to you.

Eyelash curling can be combined with painting, although you need to be very careful in choosing paint and carefully read the composition, given that your eyes tend to “please” you with an allergic reaction.

Choose a good hair extension specialist

While allergies to eyelash extensions cannot be prevented, you can help avoid irritation by choosing a qualified lash extensionist or studio that uses proven, quality materials. Inexperienced, poorly trained extension artists most often use too much glue and amateurish methods. This can easily lead to eye irritation even if you are not allergic.

After an allergic reaction, any future eyelash extensions should be done with extreme caution and at your own risk, as no artist can give you a guarantee that this will not happen again. Be healthy and beautiful! :)