Does your eyelid feel itchy, red, or even painful after getting eyelash extensions? If so, you may have Blepharitis.

In this article, I’ll cover exactly why you got blepharitis from eyelash extensions, what it is, and how to treat it. But most importantly, you’ll also learn prevention measures you can take today.

Red, itchy, swollen eyelids are no fun. But you don’t need to avoid lash extensions to protect your lids from blepharitis. I’ll show you how to keep your eyelids healthy while rocking extensions.

Keep scrolling!

Can Eyelash Extensions Cause Blepharitis?

So what is blepharitis exactly in the first place?

blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid. It’s one of the most common eye conditions, is not contagious but can be very uncomfortable. Symptoms include:³

Here’s a closer look at lash extensions’ link to these causes and tips to prevent them.

Cause #1: Too Much Bacteria on the Eyelids

Dirty hands or tools can introduce bacteria to the lids while they apply extensions. These nasty organisms can cause an infection that triggers blepharitis.

Keep lids healthy! Only have your extensions done by a licensed, certified lash tech with high hygiene standards. Additionally, make sure to cleanse your lashes daily.

Cause #2: Too Many Lash Mites

You also need to keep things clean! Skimping on eye hygiene can cause a lash mite infestation, potentially resulting in blepharitis.

Keep lids healthy! Gently cleaning your lashes washes away dead skin cells, oil, and grime to keep lash mites in check. Make lash-cleansing a daily thing.

Cause #3: Irritated or Blocked Oil Glands

If extension fibers aren’t skilfully applied, lash glue can end up on your skin. Misplaced glue globs can block your oil glands, possibly bringing on blepharitis.

Keep lids healthy! Get your extensions done by an expert lash tech with an excellent application technique.

Cause #4: An Allergic Reaction

Lash glues emitting high fumes can trigger blepharitis as an allergic reaction.⁴

Keep lids healthy! Ask your lash tech if they have a low-fume glue option. Plus, you can have a patch test to see how your body deals with the extension products.

How to Treat Blepharitis From Eyelash Extensions

The first thing to do is to remove your eyelash extensions as soon as possible. You should contact your lash tech so that they can remove them professionally. Do not try to remove them at home by yourself.

It’s important to note that blepharitis won’t go away when you take off eyelash extensions. You should also see your optometrist or ophthalmologist for a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan. They may prescribe medication, such as antibiotic ointment or drops, to help clear the infection.

Moreover, you need to cleanse your lashes and eyelids using a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic cleanser. Gently massage your lashes with your fingertips for about 30 seconds to loosen any debris.

Before getting lash extensions again once the infection is gone, you need to understand what caused it in the first place (see 4 common causes above) and correct it.

References

1. Kierstan Boyd – medically reviewed by James M Huffman, MD (2022). What is Blepharitis? Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-blepharitis#causes (Accessed on 5 October 2022)
2. Yuki Amano et al. (2012). Ocular Disorders Due to Eyelash Extensions. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22134404/ (Accessed on 5 October 2022)
3. Mayo Clinic Staff (2022). Blepharitis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/blepharitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20370141 (Accessed on 5 October 2022)
4. See reference 2