Eye doctors have warned of potential health risks associated with the frequent use of eyelash extensions, indicating that they may provide a suitable environment for the accumulation and proliferation of "Demodex" mites around the hair follicles, which can lead to itching, redness, irritation, skin flaking, and blurred vision.
A study conducted by ophthalmologist Tatyana Zmud and her team found that mites were present in 24 out of 25 women who regularly had eyelash extensions applied, a rate of 96%.
The study included 345 women aged between 16 and 28 years, with nearly half of the participants reporting that they had extensions applied every three to four weeks, equating to approximately 17 times a year. Additionally, 48% of them stated that they experienced symptoms after the procedure, including discomfort, redness, or itching.
Another examination revealed that 85% of women who had eyelash extensions applied at least ten times experienced blockages in their eyelid glands or a decrease in the secretion of oils that help maintain eye moisture.
Why might the mites accumulate?
"Demodex" mites commonly live on adults and usually shed naturally from eyelashes without causing issues. However, a large accumulation may be associated with inflammation in the eye and eyelid area.
Researchers speculate that eyelash extensions may create conditions conducive to mite reproduction due to the accumulation of dead skin cells and adhesive residues around the hair follicles, as well as the potential obstruction of the natural process of shedding dead mites.
Professor Sorcha Ni Dhubhghaill, head of the cornea committee at the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons, noted that detecting mites may be more challenging for women using extensions due to the placement of the adhesive near the area where signs of mite presence typically appear.
Among the most prominent signs are what are known as "wax rings," which are deposits and flakes that accumulate around the hair follicles and may indicate the presence of "Demodex" mites.
Hygiene: The first line of defense
Zmud called for enhanced eyelid hygiene and attention to warning symptoms, particularly for women who frequently use eyelash extensions.
She recommended that these women clean their eyelids twice a day using a gentle cleanser and a dedicated eyelash brush, while being vigilant about any persistent symptoms such as redness, itching, irritation, or blurred vision.
The findings highlight a health aspect that may not receive enough attention when using eyelash extensions, especially with the frequency of their application over extended periods, making eyelid cleanliness and eye health care crucial for minimizing potential complications.