Wearing false eyelashes is a beauty trend that has been around for decades. It can be seen in Hollywood and even on the runway. But it’s important to know what types of lashes are safe to wear and which ones should not be worn at all.
It is safe to wear false eyelashes as long as you take precautions. You see, there are many different ways to use false lashes. But no matter which method or product you use, always keep in mind the safety precautions of wearing them.
Read on to learn more about the health implications of wearing false eyelashes. Also, the proper application and removal of strip lashes. So you can avoid any foreseeable implications.
The Risks and benefits of wearing false eyelashes
When you decide to wear false eyelashes, it is essential to know the risks and benefits. False eyelashes can create an instant glam look. It is especially true when appropriately worn for special occasions or events. Yet, they also come with a few risks and disadvantages. You should know about the pros and cons before deciding whether to buy them.
Risks:
- The most common risks include people having a general feeling of discomfort. Also, some people have a feeling that something is in their eyes. It is usually due to the lash being loose. Thus, it tends to go upward into the inner corner of the eye.
- Allergic reactions are rare. It’s typically only if someone has to use an unfamiliar glue/dye to which they’re allergic.
- Itching and inflammation. These are common but usually, go away on their own after removing the lashes. If not, consult a doctor immediately.
Benefits:
- Strip lashes were typically created to cover up gaps in your natural lashes. It also adds volume and length.
- It adds a natural definition to a plain or tired face. Thus, making it appear more lively and energetic for that day at work.
- It also helps to frame the eye, making it more attractive.
- It has a wide-ranging variety. You can play up attractive eye colors for any occasion without doing much other makeup to achieve the desired look.
- For most women, wearing strip lashes enhances their self-esteem and confidence.
Why is it dangerous to wear false eyelashes?
False eyelashes often contain small pieces of plastic. It could get stuck in your eyes, irritating. The glue on the false lashes is another form of irritant. It can lead to an allergic reaction if it comes into contact with your skin or eyes. If you want to try out some new false eyelashes at home, here are some things that you should know.
Understanding the eyelash material
We all know that eyelashes can be a pain to manage and grow. But did you know there are different types of lashes out there? Some people like synthetic, and some prefer natural. Here’s the most common eyelash material:
- Synthetic Fibers (PBT, or Polybutylene Terephthalate)
Synthetic lashes are made of a plastic fiber called PBT, Polybutylene Terephthalate. It is porous and flexible. It can be stretched or pulled into any shape without breaking under pressure. At the same time, it maintains its original dimensions.
Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT) is a high-performing thermoplastic. It is safe and effective in food processing applications. It offers an excellent combination of wear resistance and moisture-blocking characteristics. Also, it is still providing solid physical qualities like strength or toughness.
It’s FDA-approved to use for food processing applications. Thus, it is an optimal choice among other materials available in this industry sector.
The lashes are made from a thermoplastic material. It does not contain any animal-derived ingredients. Thus, it is considered vegan.
- Mink Fur
The American mink is an animal that has been bred for use in clothing, and its fur was highly prized. Farming replaced hunting since farmers sought out new sources of income.
A recent study has found that minks can carry coronaviruses. They could also contract a new strain of the virus from humans and pass this on too.
But as the eyelash company will do the Disinfection steps， So, it is safe to use mink fur. But it can be pretty expensive, knowing that it’s made from natural animal fur. Minks are still being raised on farms. Mink fur comes from animals bred and confined in small cages. It is similar to factory-farmed land animals. Thus, mink eyelashes are handled with care.
Understanding the eyelash glue material
Understanding the eyelash glue material is essential for those who wear them. Although it may seem like a trivial topic, there are things you need to know before you decide which glue and remover to use.
- Cyanoacrylate: It is the main ingredient of any eyelash glue. Cyanoacrylate is a solid but biodegradable glue that can be used in open wounds. It has been proven to be a hemostatic agent (to stop bleeding). Also, for used in surgery to bond together pieces of flesh. Thus, it is safe to use in external areas of the body, including eyelids.
In contrast, have you ever had your eyelashes lifted off because of an adhesive? Or have your eyes become irritated by the chemicals in some lash glues? When choosing the best eyelash glue, there are a few ingredients you may want to avoid. Here are some of them:
- Paraben: Parabens are a type of preservative often found in cosmetic products. It is used like deodorant, lotions, and beauty supplies shown to disrupt hormones.
They also pose risks for infertility and reproductive organs. It includes birth outcomes (i.e., pregnancy) and cancer risk, among other things.
- Ammonia: Ammonium hydroxide is a clear, colorless liquid. It is used in cosmetics to adjust the pH of products like AHA exfoliants. Unfortunately, a chemical reaction between hair products and lash extension adhesives can permanently ruin your extensions.
The main component in these cosmetic compounds is cyanoacrylate. It causes them to solidify almost immediately after application.
- Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is a gas present in many household products and cosmetics. It’s used as an adhesive. Its most significant concern is skin irritation from prolonged contact with the chemical or inhalation of formaldehyde fumes.
In the United States and European Union, the legislation allows for up to 0.2% (20000ppm) free formaldehyde concentration present. Anything that exceeds can be hazardous if inhaled. It may irritate respiratory tract membranes and generate toxic gas during decomposition.
- Lead: Lead is one of the most unusual ingredients in cosmetic lip products and externally applied cosmetics. It can cause serious health risks for consumers since it has been shown to have damaging effects on your body’s organs and bones.
In the interest of public health, the FDA has established a recommended maximum limit for lead as an impurity in cosmetic lip products and externally applied cosmetics. The FDA guidance supports this goal by limiting consumers’ exposure to potentially harmful levels ranging from 0-10 ppm.
What shows that I have an eye problem?
The glue used to adhere to eyelash extensions is chemical. They may contain ingredients that could irritate or harm your eyes. Side effects from the process might show up as soon as two days after application. Thus, if your skin is sensitive, ask about the safety of strip lashes. Find out what kind of chemicals can harm you.
Here are some of the manifestations of irritation and allergic reaction to the eyelash material or eyelash glue:
- Pain
- Redness
- Soreness
- Sensitivity to light
- Discharge
- Fever
- Blurred vision
- Swelling
Unsanitary conditions can also cause these problems. Thus, you must be using clean equipment at all times. Most importantly, proper handwashing technique goes a long way.
Is It Okay to Wear Strip Lashes Daily?
Yes. It’s not a bad idea to wear strip lashes in general. If you enjoy wearing strip lashes, you can do it every day. But, you must maintain proper hygiene to keep your strip lashes safe. Also, to protect yourself from the possible risks of wearing strip lashes.
Natural eyelashes are great at keeping out dirt and oils. Good hygiene is the key to beautiful eyes! Make sure you wash your face every night and apply a gentle cleanser that removes makeup.
But false eyelashes may be inadequate for you. They increase the risk of getting trapped beneath your tear-line. Additionally, glue could clog pores that penetrate deep into the lash line.
It’s no secret that makeup and dirt attract germs. Be sure to remove your makeup with care. To dry them lying flat on absorbent paper towels will help keep those pesky germs at bay!
Gently clean the area of any oils or other contaminants before cleaning off this coating. You can do this by dipping cotton balls in alcohol-based remover. Then, swipe from band to tip until they’re all gone (and make sure you wipe up any tears).
Do Strip Lashes Harm Your Real Eyelashes?
No, you won’t damage your natural eyelashes with strip lashes. Adhesives can irreparably damage your natural eyelashes. It is a common misconception about using strip lashes. Also, it will cause them to fall out permanently or even break off bumps.
However, this isn’t true. If you know how to wear and remove Lashes correctly, there shouldn’t be any problem.
Safety Precautions When Wearing Strip Lashes
- You must wash your hands before applying lashes. Also, you must use proper clean techniques for putting them on. You should also sterilize the equipment. Lastly, use fresh towels when removing them so they stay in place longer.
2. It is normal to have allergies or sensitive skin. If you are worried about the risk of reacting, get a patch test done on your arm before committing to your current eyelash glue.
3. If you’re allergic to latex, it might be in one of the ingredients. The adhesive in your home can cause an allergic reaction and create irritation on the skin. Do not use any formaldehyde-containing adhesives. These are risks associated, even if they are organic or environmentally friendly. Make sure and read labels carefully.
4. Removing lashes is a delicate process. But there are many steps you can take to make it easier. Applyingoil-based makeup remover will weaken the lash glue. It will make flares come off quickly without removing them all in one swoop.
Conclusion
False eyelashes are a great way to glam up your look, but they can be dangerous if not worn properly. If you wear false lashes every day, you must know the safety tips for wearing them.
You’ll want to avoid using them if your eyes have any infection or inflammation.
Any reaction can cause the lashes to irritate the eye. It may also worsen any pre-existing condition.
References:
- PBT, Polybutylene Terephthalate (Retrieved from https://gabriellagallagher.com/faq)
- FDA approved (Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/industry/color-additive-inventories/summary-color-additives-use-united-states-foods-drugs-cosmetics-and-medical-devices)
- Thermoplastic material (Retrieved fromhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eyelash_extensions)
- American mink (Retrieved fromhttps://www.britannica.com/animal/mink)
- Recent study (Retrieved from https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2020/06/25/882095588/dutch-minks-contract-covid-19-and-appear-to-infect-humans)
- Parabens (Retrieved fromhttps://www.ewg.org/what-are-parabens)
- Ammonium hydroxide (Retrieved from https://cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/ammonium-hydroxide)
- Formaldehyde (Retrieved fromhttps://thedoctorweighsin.com/formaldehyde-cosmetics/)
- FDA (Retrieved fromhttps://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/potential-contaminants-cosmetics/lead-cosmetics)
- Irritation and allergic reaction (Retrieved fromhttps://www.healthline.com/health/eyelash-extension-side-effects#side-effects)
- Oil-based Makeup Remover (Retrieved from https://theklog.co/cleanser-remove-makeup/ )
