At one time, falsies were the purview of only the rich and famous. They’ve graced the eyelids of Hollywood’s elite, garnering envy from fans and naysayers alike. Falsies are now available to everyone, and you can get a glam look just as red carpet ready as any celeb.
Many wearers enjoy the way they can quickly change up a look. They are also fun and come in a variety of styles and have many different price points. Despite their ubiquity, there are lots of misconceptions and questions regarding their use and safety.
As our eyes are our greatest asset, this is understandable. We use our eyes to interpret and perceive the world. Our lashes help to keep our eyes healthy by filtering out harmful particles and keeping out germs.
If you’re wondering if false eyelashes are bad for your real lashes, the answer depends on a few factors. Improper care and maintenance, bad fake eyelashes, and adhesives can drastically alter the lash wearing experience. Adverse reactions, while possible, can be avoided.
Consumers that observe a few tips and practices may learn to wear their falsies with little problems. However, if you’re still on the fence about using falsies, and still wonder if eyelash extensions are bad for you, read on for more information.
What Are Eyelash Extensions Made of?
To adequately explain how false eyelash extensions may affect you, it is necessary first to describe what false eyelashes contain. There are different types of lashes, each with their separate application processes and drawbacks. The materials for these strips include synthetic fibers, human hair, silk, and mink.
The Differences Between Materials
False eyelash extensions made of synthetic fibers may contain compounds such as rubber and other man-made materials. Human hair eyelashes originate from donors in areas from China and India. Mink lashes come from the fur of animals.
Synthetic fibers are often the cheapest option, but depending on the structure of the lash, they may not be the most natural-looking. Most eye specialists caution against using synthetic lashes long-term as the weight of the material weighs down the eye. The weight of the lash on the lid may cause severe damage and hair loss.
Human hair is by far the most natural option. It blends well with the natural lash, and it isn’t as heavy and bulky as synthetic lashes. However, this option is often more expensive than other materials.
Silk is the best synthetic material to use. It is lighter and made from polybutylene terephthalate or PBT. PBT is a resin used in numerous everyday items, including machine parts. While this may sound dangerous, silk extensions are quite safe and durable to use.
Silk fibers don’t absorb water well, so they are more resistant to mildew and molds than other types of lashes. They also don’t absorb odors like some other materials, so that is an added benefit. However, they don’t stain as well, so tinting and other dyes may not be possible.
And last, some lashes are made of mink. Mink is culled from animals often raised on a farm exclusively for this purpose. Mink isn’t a good choice is you’re looking for cruelty-free options.
As far as quality, many people prefer the look and feel of authentic mink. They are soft, lightweight, and mimic human hair. Mink is also an expensive choice, so divas on a budget may opt to skip this one.
Do Eyelash Extensions Damage Your Eyelashes?
If you’re wondering are fake eyelashes bad, there’s a simple answer. False eyelashes aren’t bad per se, though they do pose certain risks. Lash wearers that observe certain practices and routines can avoid damaged eyelashes.
What to Watch Out for:
Damage can often occur to natural lashes and the eyes for a variety of reasons. Many of these factors include:
- Tugging and Pulling/Lash Tension
Lash wearers should remove their falsies each day. Sleeping in your lashes can add to the tugging and pulling experienced by your eyelashes. While they may be a pain to have to take off after a long night, the alternative isn’t a good one.
Magnetic lashes may offer another alternative. While they don’t use glue, the magnets used to secure them to your lash line may still cause tugging and pulling in your sleep. During the day or when you’re active, magnetic lashes can weigh down lashes, resulting in hair loss over time.
- Allergic Reactions
Not all adhesives are made equal. Some glues contain formaldehyde, a substance that may cause a reaction in many individuals. When using glues and adhesives, it’s critical to undergo a patch test to ensure that there is no allergy. An allergic response to glue or adhesive can cause red, itchy, and irritated eyes.
Another allergen to watch out for includes materials like mink. While you may not be allergic to the glue, mink is still an animal product. For those allergic to pet hair and dander, this may be one to steer clear off.
- Infections
Proper maintenance and handling of eyelashes may result in glam, awe-inspiring looks. However, improper practices can lead to an infection. Handling your lashes with dirty hands, storing them in a humid, hot environment, or not storing them in an airtight container can all lead to the overgrowth of bacteria.
Not cleaning your lashes after every wear can also encourage the growth of pathogens. If pathogens get into your eyes, they can cause a litany of problems.
How to Repair Damaged Eyelashes
If you already have damaged eyelashes, there are a few things you can do. It’s possible to restore the health and vitality of your lashes with a couple of essential steps. First, you may have to forego wearing falsies for a bit.
For some that depend on the look and feel of lashes, this may seem unfeasible. However, rest assured that the result will be healthier, full lashes that will look even more dazzling with your falsies in the future.
Promoting healthy lashes takes time. Care and attention must first be devoted to reversing the effects of damage. By following the tips below, you may be well on your way to healthier lashes.
Tips on Reversing the Damage:
- Invest in a Lash Serum
A lash serum such as Revitalash or NeuLash nourishes the lashes you have with essential proteins and minerals. Compounds such as biotin and Vitamin B5 make up their formulations, which can encourage natural lash growth. These substances can also soothe the eyelid and reduce irritation.
- Use a Conditioner Each Evening
In addition to a lash serum, coconut, almond, or castor oils can be combined with Vitamin E to create a conditioning treatment. Add a bit of each of the oils with vitamin E to a cotton ball. Dab a bit onto your lash line each evening.
- Use a Natural Mascara
A natural mascara made with organic ingredients can enhance your lashes without causing further damage. You’ll find that some brands contain ingredients such as almond oil, aloe leaf juices, or plant waxes. Using this natural alternative will help your lashes heal from any overexposure to glues and adhesives.
- Hydrate and Eat a Well-Rounded Diet
Your eyelashes take nourishment from the foods you eat and the water you drink. By staying hydrated and eating a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, you can encourage healthy growth from within.
Falsies can be a transformative experience. They can give you volume and length while boosting your confidence. However, they also come with a few risks. To avoid these drawbacks, be kind to your eyes and observe proper hygiene and eyelash storage practices. Be careful not to wear your falsies to bed and research what types of lashes would best fit your lifestyle.
