Makeup · Eyes
Lash extensions
Doctor review pending
Single synthetic lashes glued to your own lashes in a salon; they last a few weeks.
At a glance
- How long to wearA few weeks, with infills
- When to removeBy a technician; never pull them
- After openingSalon service: no PAO
- Patch testYes, ask the salon 48 h before
Choosing it for deep skin
- Choose a trained, experienced technician in a clean salon. Watch them wash their hands and use cleaned tools.
- Ask to see the glue's ingredients and ask for a formaldehyde-free option.
- Choose light, natural-length lashes. Heavy sets can make your own lashes fall out.
- Ask for a patch test at least 48 hours before your first set.
How to apply
- Patch-test firstHave a small test done 48 hours before your first appointment.
- Arrive with clean eyesCome with no eye makeup and no contact lenses if you can.
- Keep your eyes closedKeep them closed the whole time; your lower lashes should be covered.
- One lash to one lashEach extension should sit near the root of one natural lash and never touch skin.
- Keep them dry for 1–2 daysAvoid water, steam and heavy sweat for 24–48 hours.
- Brush daily, gentlyBrush with a clean spoolie. Keep oily products away from the glue.
How long to wear it
- Extensions fall out with your natural lashes over a few weeks. Infills are usually every few weeks.
- Take a break of a week or two between sets so your own lashes can recover.
- Never pull or pick them off. Have them removed by a technician.
Don’t use it if
- If your eye or eyelid is irritated, inflamed or infected, or has an open wound.
- During eyelid eczema, or after eye surgery until your eye doctor says it is fine.
- If you are allergic to latex or any glue ingredient.
- If you have dry eye, alopecia, trichotillomania, or are having chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
- If the technician uses nail glue. Leave straight away.
Safety and the evidence
Most lash glues are cyanoacrylates and can release small amounts of formaldehyde. Glue on skin or eye can cause allergy or a chemical burn.
Evidence D — professional body guidance · Canadian Association of Optometrists — eyelash extensions
If the eyelid or cornea is damaged, infection can follow and can scar or harm vision.
Evidence D — professional body guidance · Canadian Association of Optometrists — eyelash extensions
The extra weight can cause temporary or permanent lash loss.
Evidence D — professional body guidance · Canadian Association of Optometrists — eyelash extensions
Do not have extensions with an irritated or infected eye, or if allergic to latex or a glue ingredient.
Evidence D — regulator guidance · California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology — eyelash safety tips
Evidence grades: A systematic reviews or several trials; B at least one trial or consistent controlled studies; C observational studies, surveys or case reports; D expert opinion.
Keep it clean
- Tools should come from a closed "clean" container; disposables should be thrown away after you.
- Clean your lash line gently every day with a mild, oil-free cleanser.
- Do not use mascara on extensions; it clumps and is hard to remove without pulling.
Important
See a doctor if
- Go to an eye clinic or emergency the same day for eye pain, a change in vision or new sensitivity to light.
- Go back to the salon and see a doctor for burning, redness, swelling or soreness after an appointment.
- See a doctor if you notice bald patches in your lashes.
Emergency in Nigeria: call 112 or go to the nearest hospital.
Sources
Doctor review pending. Education only, not a diagnosis. Product types, not brands.