Warning about the effects of eye makeup and eyelash extensions

Makeup is used by thousands of people as a way to express their creativity , correct imperfections, or simply enhance their appearance. Therefore, eye makeup, such as eyeliner and eyelash extensions, are some of the most used beauty products.

Eyeliner, whether liquid, pencil, gel, or other forms, is used to create a more dramatic effect with different techniques. Eyelashes, on the other hand, are used to create a more elongated, doll-like effect, among others, depending on the type of eyelashes.

Nevertheless, Incorrect use of makeup and eyelash extensions can have serious consequences. for eye health.

Experts warn about the effects of makeup and eyelashes on the eyes

"Beautifying your look shouldn't put your eyes at risk." , say specialists from the Argentine Council of Ophthalmology (CAO), in a statement in which they warn about negative effects on eye health, such as dryness, inflammation, infections, and even chronic damage to the ocular surface.

Likewise, a report from the Tear Film and Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) warned about ingredients in cosmetics that may be risky, such as fragrances, parabens, benzalkonium chloride, phthalates, formaldehyde , among others.

“It is estimated that of 12,500 chemicals used in cosmetics, less than 20% have been reviewed for safety ,” the report states.

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Many makeup styles require eyeliner on the waterline, however, you have to be careful with the inner edge of the eyelid.

The so-called "free eyelid margin" is the smooth strip that separates the skin of the eyelid and eyelashes from the mucosa. This divide contains the Meibomian glands , which secrete lipids and proteins with each blink and form the surface layer of the tear film. providing stability and preventing evaporation so that the eye is always moisturized.

When these glands become clogged with makeup, whether it's eyeliner, mascara residue, eyeshadow, or other substances, it can cause major problems: "When makeup reaches the mucosa, it irritates it. You have to be very careful with the edge of the eyelid. If the glands become clogged, the tear duct is unstable and causes dry eye, which is a fairly common condition ," says Martín Berra, a member of the CAO and a specialist in cornea and ocular surface.

In addition to dry eyes, improper use of eye makeup can cause allergic conjunctivitis, eyelid inflammation, or styes , also known as "styes," which appear due to the obstruction of a sebaceous gland.

What do eyelash extensions cause?

Experts emphasize that, just as makeup should not come into contact with the mucous membranes of the eyes, substances like the glue used for eyelash extensions should do so even less. Eyelash application must be done under “strict hygiene standards.”

Eyelash extensions can cause contact dermatitis , allergic dermatitis, eyelash loss, eyelid inflammation, conjunctivitis, keratitis, and corneal abrasions.

It also warns about adhesives that often contain ingredients such as formaldehyde, cyanoacrylate, ammonia, lead, and latex, which can harm eye health.

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CAO specialists recommend the following:

Avoid applying makeup to the inner edge of the eyelid.
Use products that are preferably hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and free of harsh preservatives.
Renew your makeup every 3 to 6 months.
Remove makeup carefully.
Do not share makeup and avoid using fitting rooms at local stores.

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