Whether you are a lash lover of a professional lash technician, it's essential to be aware of the potential risks and complications that can arise from eyelash extension procedure. In this article, we'll explore eye infections that can occur from lash extensions and how to prevent and treat them. Are you ready? Let’s go.
1. Can eyelash extensions cause an eye infection?
First things first, let’s determine that eye infection is not a myth. Yes, lash extensions can cause eye infections. The eye area is delicate and sensitive, and lash extensions can irritate it. If proper hygiene practices are not followed during the application of lash extensions, there is a risk of developing an infection.
2. What kind of eye infection can eyelash extensions cause?
There are several types of eye infections that can occur from lash extensions, including:
Bacterial conjunctivitis: This infection is caused by bacteria and can lead to redness after eyelash extensions, swelling, and discharge in the eye.
Viral conjunctivitis: This infection is caused by a virus and can cause similar symptoms to bacterial conjunctivitis.
Fungal keratitis: This infection is caused by a fungus and can lead to corneal ulcers and vision loss if left untreated.
Blepharitis: This is an inflammation of the eyelid that can cause redness, swelling, and itching.
Stye (hordeolum): This is a painful lump that can form on the eyelid and is caused by a bacterial infection. So if you ever wondered, can eyelash extensions cause styes, the answer is yes. So it’s needed to be extremely careful and always take the services of a trusted lash artist.
3. Symptoms of Eye Infections from Lash Extensions
The symptoms of an eye infection from lash extensions can vary depending on the type of infection. Some common eyelash extension infection symptoms include:
- Redness and swelling around the eyes
- Itching and burning of the eyes
- Discharge or crusting around the eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Pain or discomfort around the eyes
- Swollen eyelids
- Irritated eye after eyelash extensions
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to serious eye problems and even vision loss.
4. Causes of Eye Infections from Lash Extensions
There are several potential causes of eye infections from lash extensions. Firstly, poor hygiene practices can contribute to bacterial infections. Lash extensions should always be applied to clean and dry lashes, with hands and tools sanitized between clients. Improper adhesive use, such as using too much adhesive or placing the extensions too close to the eyelid, can also cause irritation and infection.
Another cause of infection is poor quality materials. Low-quality adhesives or lashes can contain harmful chemicals or allergens that can cause adverse reactions in clients. It's important to use high-quality materials from reputable suppliers to avoid these issues.
5. Treatment of Eye Infections from Lash Extensions
How to treat eyelash extension infection? If a client presents with symptoms of an eye infection after lash extensions, it's crucial to advise them to seek medical attention immediately. Ignoring the problem or attempting to treat it at home can lead to more serious complications.
In most cases, a doctor will prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medication to treat the infection. Eye drops may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms such as redness and itching. In severe cases, the client may need to have their lash extensions removed until the infection has cleared up.
6. Prevention of Eye Infections from Lash Extensions for Your Clients
Preventing eye infections from lash extensions starts with educating your clients about the risks and the importance of proper aftercare. Advise them to avoid touching their eyes and lashes, particularly with unclean hands. Clients should also avoid using oily or greasy products around the eyes, as these can break down the adhesive and increase the risk of infection.
It's also crucial to advise clients to avoid getting their lashes wet for at least 24 hours after application, as water can cause the adhesive to weaken and increase the risk of infection. After this time, clients should wash their lashes daily with a gentle cleanser to remove any debris and reduce the risk of bacterial growth.
7. Checklist for Preventing Eyelash Infections in Your Salon
As a lash technician, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of eye infections in your clients:
- Use high-quality materials from reputable suppliers.
- Practice good hygiene, including sanitizing tools and washing hands between clients.
- Follow proper adhesive application techniques to avoid irritation and infection.
- Educate clients about aftercare and the importance of proper hygiene.
- Advise clients to seek medical attention immediately if they experience any symptoms of infection.
Conclusion
Of course, we all love lash extensions. What’s not to love in them? They surely can enhance the beauty of your clients' eyes, and hide the small flaws, giving them self-confidence. However, lash extensions can also cause eye infections if not applied or maintained correctly. As a lash technician, it's essential to educate yourself about the potential risks and take steps to prevent infections in your clients. By following proper hygiene practices, using high-quality materials, and advising clients on proper aftercare, you can help reduce the risk of eye infections from lash extensions. Don’t worry, you’ve got it and we are always here to support!
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