Answer:

Eyelash extensions enhance natural lashes, making them longer, thicker, and curlier. However, improper application or aftercare can pose risks to eye health. The adhesive, synthetic lashes, and tools used near the eyes can cause irritation, allergic reactions, blepharitis (eyelid inflammation), conjunctivitis (pink eye), dry eyes, or even corneal abrasions. Some individuals may also experience allergies to the adhesive components, leading to prolonged redness, itching, eyelid swelling, or watery eyes.

Proper aftercare is crucial to mitigate these risks. During the initial 24 to 48 hours after getting extensions, avoid direct contact with water, hot steam, or sweat around the eye area. This period allows the adhesive to fully cure and stabilize. Washing your face too soon, steaming, swimming, or engaging in high-intensity workouts can weaken the adhesive bond, causing lashes to shed prematurely and increasing the risk of irritation.

After this initial period, daily eye hygiene remains important. Clean the eye area with a specialized solution or physiological saline as your doctor advises. When washing your face and cleaning your lashes, use gentle motions. Avoid rubbing, pulling, or excessively touching your eyes. Instead of harsh wiping, gently pat the area dry with a soft towel. Using a specialized lash brush can also help keep the individual lash extensions separated, preventing tangles and breakage.

While wearing extensions, try to avoid touching your eyes. Also, refrain from sleeping face down or pressing your eyes against your pillow. Limit mascara use, as it can cause lashes to clump, make cleaning difficult, and reduce the longevity of your extensions. When removing makeup, opt for gentle products compatible with the type of adhesive used.

Never attempt to cut, pull, or remove eyelash extensions at home, as this can damage your hair follicles and lead to weakened or lost natural lashes. If you need to remove or reapply extensions, visit a professional establishment that uses appropriate solutions.

Physiological saline drops help clean the eyelid area. Illustration: Hai Au

Immediately after eyelash extensions, some individuals may experience mild foreign body sensation, stinging, or watery eyes for a few hours, often due to the eyes adapting or the effects of adhesive fumes. These reactions are typically temporary. However, if symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, or if you develop severe pain, significant eye redness, eyelid swelling, intense itching, excessive discharge, blurry vision, light sensitivity, or a persistent foreign body sensation, seek immediate examination at an eye care specialist.

Individuals with existing conditions such as dry eyes, chronic blepharitis, atopic dermatitis around the eyes, or a history of eye surgery should consult a doctor before getting eyelash extensions, as they face a higher risk of irritation and complications. If you currently have conjunctivitis, acute blepharitis, a stye, a chalazion, or any wounds around the eyes, you should postpone extensions until your condition stabilizes. Contact lens wearers must remove their lenses before the extension procedure and should only reinsert them once their eyes are stable, following their doctor's advice.

Doctor Le Thi Huong Giang, First Degree Specialist

High-Tech Eye Unit

Tam Anh Cau Giay General Clinic