Ophthalmologist warned about the risks of regular eyelash extensions

Eyelash extensions can lead not only to temporary discomfort, but also to chronic eye problems with regular procedures. Glue, the extra weight of artificial eyelashes, and insufficient care can cause dryness, inflammation of the eyelids, and disruption of the glands that protect the surface of the eye. ""On September 16," "Izvestia" was told about the possible risks of the procedure by ophthalmologist of the ophthalmological center "Vision" Karina Kozina.

"A one-time build-up from a neat master usually does not harm healthy eyes. Difficulties begin when extensions are done constantly, without interruptions, and your own eyelashes have been wearing glue and excess weight for years," explained Kozina.

According to the expert, the glue is applied close to the edge of the eyelid, so its fumes can irritate the eyes. In addition, heavy artificial eyelashes can interfere with proper blinking, which makes the tear film less distributed and dryness appears. The problem is exacerbated by insufficient care: makeup residues, sebum and dirt accumulate at the base of the eyelashes and can cause inflammation.

The doctor noted that too long eyelashes can also increase dryness of the eyes. Own eyelashes protect the surface of the eye from the flow of air, while artificial long eyelashes can, on the contrary, accelerate the evaporation of tears.

One of the risks of regular build-up is a malfunction of the meibomian glands. They are located inside the eyelids and secrete an oily secret that is part of the tear film and prevents the eye from drying out.

"Remnants of glue, cosmetics, sebum and scales accumulate at the edge of the eyelid and clog the gland outlets. The secret thickens and stagnates," explained the ophthalmologist.

With prolonged disruption of the glands, there may be a feeling of sand in the eyes, burning, dryness, redness of the eyelids, eyelashes sticking together in the morning, blurred vision, barley and chalazions.

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Discomfort after the procedure may also be related to the reaction to the materials. According to Kozina, it can be chemical irritation from glue vapors, allergy to the components of the composition, or mechanical damage to the mucous membrane due to incorrectly fixed eyelashes.

The specialist paid special attention to the Demodex tick. In small amounts, it is considered a normal part of the skin's microflora, but if over-multiplied, it can cause inflammation of the eyelids.

"The very presence of demodex on eyelashes can be considered the norm. It is found in many healthy people, and with age in almost everyone. If there are no complaints and the eyelids look calm, the carrier does not need to be treated," Kozina said.

According to the doctor, extensions can create conditions for the reproduction of ticks, as sebum and impurities accumulate at the base of the eyelashes. Signs of the problem include itchy eyelids, redness, peeling, eyelash loss, and dry eyes.

The procedure should be abandoned with active inflammation of the eyes or eyelids, dry eye syndrome, malfunction of the meibomian glands, frequent barley and allergies to materials. Caution is also necessary for people after eye surgery, when wearing contact lenses and certain diseases of the visual organs.

To reduce the risk of complications, it is important to regularly clean the eyelids with special products without oils and alcohol after the procedure. You should not rub your eyes, remove your eyelashes yourself, or use greasy creams in the eyelid area. The doctor also recommends that you periodically take breaks between procedures and choose craftsmen who follow the rules of hygiene.

Slight redness and lacrimation after the build-up may persist for the first hours, but long-term symptoms require contacting an ophthalmologist. The reason for the visit is eye pain, blurred vision, photophobia, purulent discharge, severe swelling of the eyelids or glue getting into the eye.

Ophthalmologist Ekaterina Bayandina told "Izvestia" on March 7 that myopia can lead to vision loss. Retinal detachment can be the most serious complication in the case of myopia. According to her, it is possible to prevent the development of severe consequences in many cases if a number of recommendations are followed. First of all, it is necessary to undergo regular examinations by an ophthalmologist in order to detect changes in a timely manner and begin treatment. It is also important to choose the right glasses or contact lenses for vision correction.