Lashing Out
As the holiday season approaches, many of us are looking forward to celebrating in person with friends and family for the first time in almost two years. Holiday parties present the opportunity to change out of the sweatpants we’ve been living in for the last 20 months and make a little extra effort with our appearance. For some this might mean a new outfit, or maybe a trip to the salon to freshen up your look. If you’re going for a glam look this festive season lash extensions might be on your holiday prep list, but there are few things you should consider first.
Let’s first review what exactly lash extensions are. The extensions are either synthetic or natural fibers that are glued to the base of the natural eyelashes by a technician. The extensions then fall out with the natural lash, and can last anywhere from one to two months. A technician uses tweezers and glue to attach the individual extensions to each lash in a process that can take hours to complete.
There are some notable risks associated with lash extensions to be aware of before making an appointment. During the lengthy application process there is a risk of injury from the prolonged use of sharp tools close to the eye. If an injury occurs during the application process, it is best to stop the application and seek care from your optometrist. If the application is performed in unsanitary conditions there is a risk of infection, symptoms of which will likely appear after the application is complete. Infection can also arise if the extensions are not kept clean following their application. Symptoms of infection include redness, white or yellow discharge, pain and itching. Visit your optometrist if infection is suspected and they will be able to treat it. By far the most common complication of eyelash extensions is allergic reaction to the glue used. Similar to infection, symptoms of an allergic reaction do not usually occur until after the application is complete. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, redness and swelling, but unlike infection there will be minimal discharge. The best way to avoid an allergic reaction is to check the glue’s ingredients for allergens; the most common allergen found in the glues’ is formaldehyde. If an allergic reaction occurs, do not try to remove the extensions at home as this can cause permanent damage to the natural lash. In the case of allergic reaction contact your optometrist for treatment; they may also advise you to return to the salon to have the extensions safely removed. The long term risk of lash extensions is permanent lash loss, which defeats the whole purpose! The weight of the extension places tension on the natural lash, which can permanently damage the hair follicle causing slowed lash growth, or worse loss of the lash entirely. It is important not to opt for excessively long or dense extensions to protect the follicle.
It is also important to note that the application of lash extensions and the products used in their application is not currently regulated in Canada, making it important to select a reputable salon. Do a little research to make sure the salon is clean, that tools are properly being disinfected, and that the technician is practicing proper handwashing. A good way to check this is to read reviews, ask to see the technician’s certification, and to look into how long the salon has been in business.
If you’re hoping to achieve big beautiful lashes to complete your holiday lewk, the safest option is to use non-permanent methods like mascara or magnetic falsies. Non-permanent methods are less traumatic to the natural lashes and will not result in permanent lash loss, just remember to be gentle when removing them and to replace mascara every 3 months. However, lash extensions will likely remain a popular option, though an option best reserved for special occasions. If you do go ahead with extensions, spacing out lash appointments will provide natural lashes a chance to recover between applications, reducing the chance of permanent lash loss. And just think, the money saved by forgoing lash extensions can be put towards a quality pair of falsies or that fancy mascara you’ve been eyeing.
