Allergic Reaction and Irritation To Eyelash Extensions

As a lash artist, one of the most disheartening experiences is seeing a client have an allergic reaction to eyelash extensions. We pour our hearts into creating beautiful lashes that enhance our clients' natural beauty, but sometimes, despite our best efforts and precautions, things don't go as planned.

Today, I want to share a comprehensive look at allergic reactions to eyelash extensions from a lash artist's perspective, infused with genuine feelings and a sincere tone.

What does an allergic reaction to eyelash extensions look like?

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When a client has an adverse response to their eyelash extension adhesive, swelling and itching of the eyelids are common. They normally appear within 72 hours of a lash service being completed.

Reactions to eyelash extensions are rare reactions to the lashes themselves. Rather, reactions occur when the adhesive is uncured, developing in response to either the carbon black used to pigment the adhesive.

How to prevent an allergic reaction? I would say less is more. Begin with a little amount of glue and gradually increase as needed. Make sure you're not getting too close to the lash line with each lash, a distance of at least 1mm is a recommended rule.

Promade Fans, Gel Under Eye Patches, Lash Tape, Elite High Humidity Adhesive, Oblong Tweezer and Straight Isolation Tweezer are used in this set. To shop, please click here.

A client with allergic blepharitis may have the following symptoms:

Eyelash extensions are one of the most popular ways to enhance your clients look. But if you have blepharitis, you may be at risk for an allergic reaction to them.

In fact, many clients with allergic blepharitis have reported experiencing these symptoms after getting eyelash extensions:

• swelling
• breaking
• discomfort
• skin irritation
• itching

Both eyelids may be affected by the allergic reaction, but one of them may be more affected. It can happen immediately after the eyelashes are applied, or it can take several hours or days.

Allergic reactions in the eyes can cause various symptoms, such as:

• Redness and swelling around the eyes

• Itching or burning sensation

• Watery eyes

• Pain or discomfort

• Small, raised bumps on the eyelids

The most common allergic reaction to eyelash extensions is redness, irritation, and itchiness. Some people also experience watery eyes and even blurred vision.

The Lash Artist's Emotional Journey

When a client has an allergic reaction, it can be a rollercoaster of emotions for the lash artist. Here’s a glimpse into our feelings:

Concern and Empathy

The first and foremost feeling is concern. We genuinely care about our clients' well-being, and seeing them uncomfortable or in pain is distressing. We empathize with their situation and want to do everything we can to alleviate their discomfort.

Self-Doubt and Responsibility

Despite knowing that allergic reactions are beyond our control, we often experience self-doubt. Questions like, "Did I do something wrong?" or "Could I have prevented this?" plague our minds. We feel a deep sense of responsibility for our clients' experiences.

Frustration and Helplessness

It can be incredibly frustrating to see a client suffer despite taking all the necessary precautions. There is a sense of helplessness because, while we can provide some relief, the allergic reaction must run its course, and we cannot cure it instantly.

Dedication to Improvement

Each allergic reaction pushes us to improve. We research, learn, and adapt our techniques to minimize the risk of future reactions. Our dedication to our craft and our clients drives us to become better lash artists.

Preventive Measures

To minimize the risk of allergic reactions, we take several preventive measures:

1. Patch Test: Performing a patch test on new clients to check for any adverse reactions to the adhesive.
2. High-Quality Products: Using high-quality, hypoallergenic adhesives and extensions.
3. Proper Ventilation: Ensuring the workspace is well-ventilated to reduce the concentration of adhesive fumes.
4. Client Consultation: Conducting thorough consultations to understand the client’s history of allergies and sensitivities.

Treatment

So you've been doing eyelash extensions for years, and you've never experienced an allergic reaction. Then one day, all of a sudden, your client's eyes are red and irritated. You might be wondering, "What happened?"

It could be an allergic reaction to the glue, or something else entirely. But no matter what the cause, it can be frustrating for both you and your client.

To help you out, here are some quick tips on how to treat an allergic reaction to eyelash extensions:

Promade Fans M Curl, Elite High Humidity Adhesive, Super Bonder, and Incredible Retention Primer are used in this set. To shop, please click here.

A client may be able to treat the symptoms at home in the case of a moderate reaction. They might want to consider:

• Drops for the eyes
• Ice packs
• Cream or ointment containing hydrocortisone
• Antihistamines

If the eyes are itching, it's also crucial to avoid the urge to rub them. If the symptoms are severe, a client should seek medical help. A doctor can determine the severity of the response and prescribe appropriate medication.

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TIPS TO PREVENT RED EYES DURING LASH APPLICATION

Clients may be uncomfortable with red eyes if they aren't expecting them to be red and itchy after their appointment.

Apply paper tape to secure the patches if your client's eyes are sensitive and watery during the application of extensions. This should assist the patches stay in place and not irritate the client's eyes.

Gel Under Eye Patches is used in this set. To shop, please click here.

For more tips like this one be sure to subscribe to our email list, we send very informative and helpful emails every week, please click here.

IF YOUR CLIENT HAS RED EYES, OR HAS LASH PATCHES THAT MOVE, TRY THIS:

If your client experiences red eyes or lash patches that move, it can be alarming. Here's a practical tip that might help:

Gel Under Eye Patches, Lash Tape, Lash Wisps and Ultra Crystal Bond are used in this set. To shop, please click here.

Breathing Tape Near the Lash Line

Applying breathing tape near the lash line can provide some relief. This tape helps to reduce the exposure of the delicate eye area to adhesive fumes, which can sometimes cause irritation. It's a simple yet effective technique that can make a difference.

Explain the Chemical Burn

It's crucial to communicate with the client and explain that what they might be experiencing is a chemical burn caused by the adhesive fumes. Reassure them that while it is uncomfortable, it is usually temporary and will improve with proper care and time.

For more tips like this one be sure to subscribe to our email list, we send very informative and helpful emails every week, please click here.

CONCLUSION

Wow, that's a lot to think about!

There are a lot of things that can go wrong with the client's eyes when they get eyelash extensions, but the most common cause of an allergic reaction is the glue used on the lashes. This glue is made from cyanoacrylate and can cause an allergic reaction in some people.

If your client has sensitive skin or has had a bad experience with eyelash extensions in the past, it's always a good idea to do a patch test.

We hope this guide has been helpful in explaining how to treat an allergic reaction to eyelash extensions, and we hope it will help you be more confident in your ability to care for your client's health and well-being.

Do you find this blog post helpful? Have you learned something? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts. Don’t forget to share this blog to your lash friend.

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