Are Eyelash Extensions Safe? Will they ruin my natural lashes?
These days, with YouTube beauty gurus around the globe creating trends and letting them go in the blink of an eye, one trend seems to be sticking around, and for good reason — eyelash extensions
While many might call eyelash extensions an addiction, one thing is for sure — this trend allows us to skip the mascara and streamline our morning makeup routine while adding some drama to our look. But are eyelash extensions safe?
In this article, we’ll share with you all the good stuff — the important stuff — so you can decide whether or not eyelash extensions are safe for you. Hint — they are!
Do Your Research
As with any procedure or service, it’s important to do your research before you hop into/onto the chair/bed/table, etc.
As with any procedure around your eye, you always have a minor risk for eyelid or eye infections when obtaining lash extensions. If improperly cared for, bacteria can build up under the glue when lashes are worn for extended periods (typically much longer than your lash technician would recommend you go between fills or full sets). If you develop symptoms of an infection, you don’t need to panic. These conditions are treated easily with oral or topical medications.
To prevent allergic reactions, you can ask your lash artist for a patch test. Your lash artist will likely ask you ahead of time if you have any allergy to the products that will be used. If you are unsure, the best way to do a patch test is for the technician to apply 10-15 lashes per eye, wait 48 hours and if there is no irritation, they can complete the full treatment.
A patch test takes approximately 15 minutes. Some lash artists charge a small fee for a patch test, which is usually deductible on the full service. Some also test out eye pads, cleansers and primers to make sure the client isn’t allergic to those items as well.
Make sure you visit an eyelash artist you are comfortable with. Examine the equipment to make sure it looks clean and is properly packaged and cared for. Even though quality lash professionals provide extremely low-risk services and must meet state requirements for cleanliness, there are always some risks to consider and you should make the choice that is right for you.
Here are a few other things to research before you decide on lash extensions.
Research Tip #1 – Know the Materials — They Matter!
Mink eyelashes used to be ideal for most clients due to their natural fiber and softness, but now you can’t tell the difference between them and synthetic silk lashes. Silk lashes are also hypoallergenic, so you’re less likely to have an allergic reaction to them. This is especially beneficial for those allergic to animal hair.
Pay attention to where the materials come from as well. Many modern lash studios use medical-grade adhesives, which are highly tolerable for most people.
Always ask about the products that will be used on you. It is important that the quality of the products used on your eyelashes is top-notch to reduce the risk of allergic reactions or infections.
Research Tip #2 – Know the Regulations
Ensure your lash artist has all the proper credentials, so you know they are well-trained to do the job.
Most countries don’t require lash artists to have certifications from accredited institutions. Many artists are obtaining formal training. Don’t be afraid to ask for credentials and check their portfolio and social media accounts for proof of work that is safe and well done.
For the past 14 years, Lashia Eyelash Design has focused exclusively on performing lash work and, since 2010, training lash artists of every level with one-on-one mentorship, customised eyelash extension courses, and hands-on experience with the latest and greatest techniques.
Research Tip #3. Ask Questions
Lastly, before you decide whether getting eyelash extensions is safe, let’s go over a couple of questions you should consider.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
- Do you sleep on your face frequently?
- Do you rub your eyes frequently?
- Do you tend to pull at your lashes?
- Have you had an eye infection recently (this could make you more sensitive to the adhesives or lashes.)
- Have you had an eye procedure recently?
- Do you have allergies to adhesives?
If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, eyelash extensions may not be the best choice for you.
Questions to Ask Your Eyelash Artist:
- How are the tools sterilized?
- What kind of lash adhesive do you use?
- What are the ingredients of the lash adhesive you use?
- What are the requirements for the qualifications of the technicians at your studio?
Knowledge is power. Never be afraid to ask questions.
Any lash studio worth their salt will use state of the art and board certified procedures to ensure the cleanliness and quality of their products and services, especially so during the pandemic. You shouldn’t feel any discomfort from your lashes, nor the adhesives. Good lash technicians keep irritation to a minimum, maintain their equipment and have a high standard of sterilization, and use products less likely to cause allergic reactions.
Eyelash extensions are a mature and well researched service area, are perfectly safe and have an exceedingly low risk of complications. You can feel comfortable going to get your lashes done in a modern studio setting without fear.
Ready to Become an Eyelash Professional?
Considering turning your passion for beauty into a sidehustle? Looking for a career change into a field that is constantly growing?
At Lashia Eyelash Design, we offer a variety of products and training courses for all skill levels, including:
- Mentored Eyelash Extension training in small groups. We make you an expert and help you start up a lash business. This includes one-on-one support and practical exams.
- Virtual courses. All our fundamentals online — includes three in-person sessions and our practical exam.
- Premium Products for eyelash extensions.
Some things that help us stand out from our competitors include:
- Mentored/extensive training – We don’t just teach eyelash extensions; we create Lash Artists.
- Lengthy experience in the Lash Industry – We have been involved in some of the most significant associations; Mimmi is an international speaker and lashes judge. Lashia has been the organizer of numerous lash events such as the Swedish Championships, Lash Bash, and Lash Open.