Dangers of False Eyelashes and How to Avoid Them

The dangers of false eyelashes should not be underestimated. These artificial eyelashes can cause eye health problems, especially if they are not used properly. Therefore, know how to use false eyelashes safely, so that the dangers of false eyelashes can be avoided.

False eyelashes are widely used by women to make eyelashes look thicker and thicker. However, please note, this beauty product can cause damage to natural eyelashes, and can even cause permanent vision problems.

Dangers of False Eyelashes on Eye Health

There are several types of false eyelashes based on the length of time and how they are used, including removable false eyelashes, magnetic false eyelashes, and eyelash extensions.

However, whatever type of eyelashes you use has the same risks to eye health. Here are some of the dangers of false eyelashes that you need to be aware of:

1. Irritation and allergies

Glue or any form of adhesive used to attach false eyelashes generally contains chemicals that can cause irritation or allergic reactions to the eyelids that tend to be sensitive.

Although rare, the use of false eyelash glue with certain chemicals, such as cyanoacrylate, also has the potential to cause burns, especially if used in large quantities.

2. Infection

In the process of applying eyelashes, bacteria and dirt can get trapped in the false eyelashes and cause infection or inflammation of the cornea or eyelids. If not treated immediately or the infection is severe, this condition can permanently damage vision.

3. Damage to natural eyelashes

The use of false eyelashes, in particular extension eyelashes, potentially damaging the natural eyelash follicles. If eyelash extensions are repeated too often, the natural lashes may fall out and may not grow back.

4. Dry eyes

Now there are many false eyelashes with a very long and thick shape. This unnatural shape of eyelashes can create a "fan effect" which increases airflow over the surface of the eye, making the eyes dry faster..

Someone who uses eyelashes with this model too often has a higher risk of developing dry eye syndrome. This condition can increase the risk of eye infections, eye inflammation, and even vision loss if left untreated.

5. Permanent visual impairment

While eliminating the risk of irritation from eyelash glue, improperly attached magnetic false eyelashes run the risk of causing natural eyelashes to bend to the eye's surface and damage the cornea, causing permanent visual impairment.

The dye in false eyelashes can also cause serious eye irritation. In fact, there are actually no artificial eyelash dyes approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Tips to Avoid the Danger of False Eyelashes

Eyelash products and the practice of making eyelash extensions do not have clear rules and are not in the provisions of the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM), so each user needs to take their own safety measures to avoid the risks.

Here are things you can do to avoid the dangers of false eyelashes:

  • Choose a brand that provides as much detail as possible about their product and be sure to carefully read the instructions for use.
  • Wash your hands before applying false eyelashes.
  • Avoid using false eyelashes if you have an eye infection or the skin around your eyes is inflamed.
  • Make sure all tools used to attach eyelashes are clean.
  • Do not occasionally lend false eyelashes to other people so that there is no transmission of bacteria that cause eye infections.
  • Be careful when applying or removing false eyelashes so as not to scratch the eyeballs.
  • Before going to bed, always remove removable false eyelashes, and clean your eyes of any residual glue or makeup.
  • Never apply false eyelashes while in a moving vehicle.
  • Avoid applying false eyelash glue directly to the eyelids. Apply glue to the false eyelashes first.
  • Choose a beauty salon that has been certified and is kept clean if you want to choose a place to lengthen eyelashes or eyelash extensions.
  • Check the ingredients in the eyelash adhesive before use. Make sure there are no ingredients that can cause allergies.

The effect of using false eyelashes can be different for each person. However, for sure, the risk will be much less if you don't use false eyelashes too often.

If you experience eye complaints, such as itching, swelling, or heat, immediately remove the false eyelashes and clean the eyelid area. If the complaint still persists, consult an ophthalmologist for proper treatment.