Listen, I love a set of lash extensions as much as the next beauty guru.
Achieving gorgeous, full lashes without having to commit the time, effort, and discomfort of applying eyelash growth serums is a big bonus. However, are eyelash extensions totally healthy? Do they do any damage your real lashes? Is it okay to wear them back-to-back without any breaks?
Let’s jump in.
Are there any downsides to lash extensions?
Optometrist and co-founder of Peep Club eye care, Nicola Alexander-Cross(opens in new tab), tells Woman&Home UK that it all depends. She says:
“Extensions themselves are as good or bad as the person who applies them (are they qualified, meticulous, and hygienic?), and who they are applied to (are they a good candidate, will they take daily care of the extensions and will they take regular breaks?)”
This is self-explanatory. If you want the best results, you need to visit a beautician who is qualified and knows what they are doing. Equally as important, you need to commit to the daily care that comes with having lash extensions, and you shouldn’t overdo it. Your real lashes are there, they need room to breathe.
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Do extensions damage your real lashes?
Another common question that pops up when it comes to the debate is do false lashes/extensions mess with your real lashes, causing them to fall-out, or break off?
According to Alexander-Cross, they could.
“Just like hair extensions, eyelash extensions do tend to weaken and break your natural eyelashes – it’s an unnatural weight attached to quite a fine hair follicle,”
“The glue is also important – each lash extension should be glued to one individual natural eyelash – not clumps of lashes at a time.”
According to professional beauticians, your lash style also plays a role in avoiding/causing damage to your real lashes. If you opt for a heavy style that weighs your natural lashes down, this could lead to premature loss of your natural lashes. Going for a style that isn’t too heavy is key, a professional beautician should guide you on this if you voice your concerns.
The removal of your extensions also plays a role, you should always see your beautician for professional removal. A harsh removal that pulls on the natural lash causes trauma that can lead to damage. Just as you should never remove nail tips at home without the correct tools and proper soaking procedure, you should never remove your extensions on a whim, either.
Is it bad to have lash extensions, back-to-back?
I’m all for extensions on a special occasion. However, is it healthy to be wearing lash extensions back-to-back, without letting your natural lashes breathe and recover?
Like we’ve already discussed, it’s important to let those natural lashes breathe and recover in between appointments.
Experts recommend taking a break after every third application and taking on a good aftercare routine during this time. Applying castor oil along the base of the lashes on the eyelid line will encourage them to grow and thicken up.
It’s all about professional application, good maintenance, and consistent aftercare when it comes to lash extensions. When you’ve got those covered, you’ve got little reason to worry. Just remember, give those natural lashes their time to shine, too!
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Feature Image: Getty
