Doctors warn of hidden risks from eyelash extensions
Ophthalmologists caution that eyelash extensions can harbor Demodex mites, potentially causing irritation, redness, and vision problems.
Key Takeaways
AIOphthalmologists have warned of "hidden risks" associated with eyelash extensions due to the buildup of Demodex mites around the lashes.
According to a study led by ophthalmologist Tetiana Zmud and her research team, this accumulation can cause itching, redness, irritation, flaking skin, and blurred vision, as reported by Russia Today citing the Daily Mail.
Demodex mites are common among adults and typically fall off the eyelashes naturally without causing issues. However, when they accumulate, they can lead to eye inflammation. Eyelash extensions create an environment that encourages their growth by trapping dead skin cells at the base of the lashes.
Doctors also believe that detecting the mites can be more difficult when extensions are used, as the adhesive is applied near the area where waxy rings—deposits and flakes that indicate the presence of mites—usually appear.