Introduction
Cosmetic enhancements have shaped society for centuries. New techniques contribute to the evolution of such enhancements over time. Eyelash extensions are one of the most popular cosmetic eye enhancements. To understand eyelash extensions, it is important to know about eyelashes first. Eyelashes are the short curved hairs growing on the edges of each eyelid. Eyelashes are called cilia in medical terminology. They protect eyes from dust, debris, and other particles in the air. Eyelash extensions are used mainly for cosmetic purposes and to enhance beauty, but they have some side effects, which are discussed later in the article.
Is the Falling of Natural Eyelashes a Matter of Concern?
Everybody is aware that eyelashes fall, which is a normal phenomenon. The life span of natural eyelashes varies from four months to 11 months. But the good news is that the eyelashes grow back in about six weeks if there is no damage to the follicle or eyelid. If eyelashes are pulled out intentionally, then they might take a bit longer to grow back. This happens as pulling eyelashes can possibly slow down the replacement process. Regrowth of eyelashes can be affected by multiple factors, such as medications causing hair loss, damage to the hair follicles, physical trauma, and some medical conditions. Even hormonal imbalances and nutritional deficiencies can affect the regrowth of eyelashes. Problems in the regrowth results in less dense eyelashes and a need for eyelash extensions. Along with the density of the eyelashes, the length of the eyelashes equally matters to people thinking about getting eyelash extensions.
What Factors Influence the Length of Eyelashes?
Eyelash length is an important aspect of cosmetic eye enhancements. Long eyelashes are more attractive as they create contrast between the eyelid and the eye and make the eyes look visibly larger. The length of natural eyelashes depends on multiple factors such as:
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Genetics.
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Ethnicity.
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Cosmetics such as eyelash serum.
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Age, diseases, and hormones can cause shorter eyelashes to develop over time.
What Are Eyelash Extensions?
Eyelash extensions are false lashes glued to the base of the natural lashes. They are growing in popularity across the world and for a good reason. They provide a sought-after long, dense eyelash look without the need to wear layers of mascara (a cosmetic used to thicken and darken eyelashes). Women of all ages prefer to have eyelash extensions, but it is very popular among females ages ten to 39. Most females choose to have eyelash extensions to increase femininity and enhance natural beauty. Eyelash extensions can be made up of various materials such as silk, synthetic fibers, or mink. Eyelash extensions are waterproof and can last for about two to three weeks.
What Are the Types of Eyelash Extensions?
Anyone going for eyelash extensions should first decide which type of extensions they want. Eyelash extensions are of two types, namely, temporary and permanent.
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Temporary Eyelash Extensions - Such eyelash extensions are a great option for special occasions as they are designed to be worn for a day or two. Temporary eyelash extensions can be made using various materials and are applied with glue specifically made for lash adhesion. These extensions can be easily removed after some time of application. These extensions provide a flawless stunning eyelash look, and they are available in various styles. The application of temporary eyelash extensions does not require the help of a professional and can be applied at home.
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Permanent Eyelash Extensions - These eyelash extensions provide a natural look with thick and long eyelashes without the need for mascara. These extensions last for two to three weeks before falling along with the natural eyelash cycle. Permanent eyelash extension involves applying a single eyelash to each natural eyelash along the line using a bonding substance specifically made for this purpose. The adhesion or bond stays till the eyelash naturally falls off. Hence there is no need to remove these extensions. The application of these extensions requires a skilled professional to have the desired results and avoid any side effects.
What Are the Adverse Effects of Eyelash Extensions?
Eyelash extensions are used for cosmetic reasons, but many adverse effects are associated with this procedure. Some of the side effects following applications of the eyelash extension include burning sensations, itchy eyes, dry eyes, eyelid swelling, pain, and redness of the eyes. Some studies report that about 73 percent of patients have side effects after the application of eyelash extensions, with the most common side effects being itching, pain, redness, and heavy eyelids. If these side effects are left untreated, they can lead to serious eye disorders, such as contact dermatitis, conjunctival erosion, toxic conjunctivitis, and allergic blepharitis.
Some studies show that one of the major causes of the above-mentioned side effects is eyelash glue adhesive. The glue used to attach false lashes to the natural eyelash contains latex and ammonia. This glue is a high formaldehyde-emitting product and is commonly available everywhere. These allergy-provoking substances have been found to cause mild to severe contact dermatitis, blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid), and keratoconjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea).
Another reason for these side effects is the mechanical limitations of eyelash extensions. The mechanical consequences include lagophthalmos (this condition prevents the eyes from closing completely) while sleeping that increased dryness and corneal exposure, microbial infection due to bacteria collecting under the eyelash bed, problems in maintaining physical hygiene and eyelid cleansing resulting in infection, and eyelash base calcification leading to scratching of the corneal surface.
During the application of eyelash extensions, gel pads are generally applied under the lower eyelash line to hold down the lower eyelashes and protect the sensitive skin of the eyes. These gel pads contain a substance called methylisothiazolinone which is a preservative. This substance can irritate the area around the eyes and causes mild to severe allergic reactions.
Conclusion
The increasing popularity of cosmetic enhancements to eyelashes is based on the potential of modern society's perception of beauty. It is crucial to get such procedures done by a skilled and experienced professional, and it is also important to be aware of the associated side effects. Follow all the instructions given by the professional to avoid any kind of mishap and adverse effects. People who are big fans of eyelash extensions should try to take a break occasionally to give their natural eyelashes a rest.
