School is in session, lash babes! Today we are going to learn about different types of eyelash extension infections and how to lower the risk of infections.

When the eye or surrounding eye area is exposed to certain bacteria or organisms, eye infections can occur. Lash education is vital: as a lash professional, you must educate your clients on the importance of hygiene to keep their beautiful eyes free of infection.

If your client displays any of the following symptoms of an eyelash extension infection, we recommend not proceeding with the service until the client has been treated by a healthcare professional, and symptoms have cleared.

However, it is up to you and your best judgment. In some cases, when the symptoms are not contagious, (such as with allergic conjunctivitis), it can be safe to proceed with written permission from a medical professional (basically, a doctor’s note).

Listed below are the most common types of eyelash extension infections you may see and their symptoms.

There are several common types of eye infections you might encounter with your clients. It’s important to know the difference between them and know when it’s safe to proceed with your service.

Let's briefly outline each of these lash extension infections so you can stay educated, girl!

When eyes are exposed to allergens (such as pet dander, pollen, dust, mold, etc.), they become watery, red, and itchy. This is the most commonly occurring infection among clients and can be tricky. Although allergies and allergic reactions are not contagious from one client to the next, applying lash extensions to already irritated eyes can worsen the symptoms a bit, or sometimes drastically. This eyelash extension infection is not lash extension related, but lash professionals should still be aware.

Blepharitis is when lash follicles are red and inflamed. This is caused by bad hygiene, allergies, mites, dandruff, and certain medications. We recommend not proceeding with the service for this eyelash extension infection, as the reaction/symptoms are likely to worsen.

Conjunctivitis is an eye infection that inflames the conjunctiva of the eye, causing the eye to turn pink or in some cases, red. Commonly known as Pinkeye, this contagious infection is easily spread. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergies, or even lash extensions if they are not applied properly. Do not proceed with the service until the client is treated, and symptoms have fully cleared.

Parasites found inside pores and hair follicles can cause infection and inflammation. These are called eye mites. Mites live inside pores and can be hard to spot or distinguish. However, if eyes are irritated or inflamed at all, it could be Demodex and we recommend not proceeding with lash extensions. The symptoms of this lash extension infection include itchy, watery, and irritated eyes.

A stye is a bacterial infection of the sebaceous glands, causing a red, painful bump or inflamed area of the eye. Styes can occur when the hair follicle is clogged and irritated. Although not contagious, styes require hot compresses in order to clear up. We recommend not proceeding with the service until the stye has cleared. You'll know it's gone when the lump disappears and the eye is no longer red or inflamed.

Keep an eye out for these symptoms in your clients:

• Excessive tearing
• Itchy eyes
• Red or pink eyes
• Crusting of the lash line
• Burning sensation
• Swelling of the eyelids
• Sensitivity to light

If you notice any of these symptoms, ask your client if they have been to another lash artist or lash tech recently. If they say yes, ask for the name and number of the lash professional so you can speak with them directly. It’s always best to get two lash professional opinions before proceeding with the service.

If your client has not been to a different lash artist recently, then it’s time to have a chat with them about their lash hygiene habits. Are they using oil-based products near their lash line? Not cleansing their lash line properly? These are all things that can lead to infection and should be avoided at all costs.

As a lash professional, you have the power to prevent lash extension infections before they start. Here are some tips you can share with your clients to help them avoid lash extension infections:

• Use a lash cleanser daily to cleanse the lash line and remove any build-up of dirt, oil, or makeup.
• Avoid using oil-based products near the lash line, as this can break down the lash adhesive and cause lash extensions to fall out.
• Be gentle when cleansing the lash line, as rubbing harshly can irritate the skin and lead to infection.
• Sleep on your back to avoid squishing your lashes and causing them to fall out.
• If you have any type of eye infection, lash extensions should be avoided until the infection has cleared.
• Visit your lash artist regularly for lash extension fills to keep your lash line looking its best.

By following these simple tips, you can help your clients avoid lash extension infections and keep their lash lines looking beautiful and healthy.

Technically, yes. Eyelash extensions can cause cross-contamination to happen and styes to form. This is why it is crucial to never do lash extensions on a client with a stye. You don’t want to transfer the eye infection to another client.

We recommend you seek help from a medical professional or eye doctor if you or your client shows signs or symptoms of an eye infection.

Prevent eyelash extension infections by keeping your tools and station sanitized at all times. Do not proceed to do lash extensions on any client who is showing signs of infection. This will protect your other clients and yourself from catching an eye infection. This is why we recommend taking all the necessary precautions to avoid any issues, such as keeping your station, kit, and tools clean at all times.

It is your job to ensure that your station, tools, and hands are free from bacteria that could spread infection or disease. Remember to never apply lash extensions to clients who show any signs of these infections.

We also recommend having all new clients sign a waiver and release form to protect yourself. This form is vital to your lash business, as it is a form of insurance and can protect you from certain liabilities that could occur. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

• Sanitize your station before each lash service.
• Sanitize all lash tools before each lash service.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before each lash service.
• Never apply lash extensions to a client who is showing signs of infection.
• Have all new clients sign a waiver and release form.
• Keep up with lash extension fills to prevent lash breakage and infection.

By following these simple tips, you can help prevent lash extension infections in your salon and keep your clients safe and healthy. Need help in getting yourself organized and ready to receive clients? The Lash Professional has you covered with our lash extension kit, which comes complete with everything you need to get started in the lash industry!

If you want to take your profession to the next level, The Lash Professional is dedicated to providing lash artists with the highest-quality lash products and training. We offer a variety of in-person and online lash extension courses to help you take your lash career to new heights.

Visit our education portal to learn more about our lash courses and products!

In order to be a successful lash artist, it is extremely important to keep your hands and workstation sanitized, as well as all your lash supplies properly decontaminated, to avoid the spreading of any germs or eye infections.

Because every state has different laws regarding decontamination, it's important to know your local health department's rules and regulations. In order to make sure you are following all of your state decontamination laws, it is also very important to understand the differences between cleaning, sanitizing, disinfecting, and sterilizing.

1) Cleaning: Using warm water and soap; eliminating surface particles.

2) Sanitizing: Using Alcohol; which eliminates or reduces bacteria.

3) Disinfecting: Using Barbicide or Germicides; this method reduces bacteria to a safe level.

4) Sterilizing: Using high heat; kills all living organisms on non-porous, hard surfaces.

As a lash artist, you will mostly need to concern yourself with knowing the proper methods of sanitizing and disinfecting. Listed below are instructions for sanitizing and disinfecting your work station, your lash supplies, and even yourself, to stop the spreading of germs or possible infections.

Dispose of everything that is non-reusable. (Eye pads, micro-brushes, lash wand, etc. *We recommend sending the lash wand home with the client for their own maintenance.)

Clean workstation with a disinfectant wipe. (This includes anything that you or your tools touched during the service.)

Wash hands thoroughly in between each client with warm water and soap for 30 seconds.

Keep hand sanitizer at your station for use during service. (Apply at least a dime-sized amount of hand sanitizer to the palm of one hand. Rub hands together for 30 seconds, for product to be effective.

*Reusable tools much be cleaned properly before disinfection. Any surface debris will reduce the effect of the disinfectant, and can cause cross-contamination.

Disinfecting steps:

Clean reusable tool with warm watcher and soap.

Use fresh disinfectant, and follow the instructions on the disinfectant.

Remove reusable tool after recommended time. Rinse the equipment in clean water to remove residue.

Dry the tool with a clean, lint-free cloth, or allow to air dry. Cover tool with a clean cloth, or store in a closed container.

Wash your lash bed fitted sheet regularly so clients have a fresh place to relax.

Remember lash artist: the eye is very delicate and sensitive part of the body. It is extremely important that you keep your work station clean, and that you take the time to sanitize and disinfect all tools used between clients.

We recommend giving yourself at least 10-15 min between each lash service. This way you have time to properly clean and tidy your lash bed, organize and sanitize everything at your work station, disinfect all your tools, and thoroughly wash your hands before your next client arrives. We have also found that it can be helpful to have a second set of tweezers on hand, for use when the other set is in the disinfectant.

Don't forget to look up your local laws and regulations regarding decontamination, as they vary from state to state. Following these laws will keep your clients safe, and reduce the spreading of germs and/or serious eye infections.

HAPPY LASHING, LASH SISTERS!!

XOXO, JULIE @ THE LASH PROFESSIONAL

There are three things we, as lash artists, need to be able to do when it comes to a client’s reaction or allergy to eyelash extension glue: treat, minimize, and avoid!

When you get that heart-sinking call from a client saying they are having a reaction, you are limited in what YOU can do for them, so make sure to assess the situation thoroughly so you can give them the best direction possible!

 Ask these questions:

• Are you experiencing discomfort?
• Are you experiencing irritation/itching around your lash line?
• Is your lash line swollen?
• Are you noticing redness around your lash line?

If your client answers “yes” to more than two of these questions, advise them to go to urgent care and keep in mind that you are not a doctor. As licensed professionals, we know how to treat allergic reaction to eyelash extension glue and can give clients advice to alleviate MILD discomfort and reactions. In more severe cases, we cannot, however, give clients medical advice. In these rare situations, it is best that they see a medical professional if the discomfort, irritation, redness, and swelling is severe and/or persists more than 48 hours.

If the symptoms are mild there are a few things the client can do:

1. Cold Compress – This is more like a Band-Aid than a treatment but it sure will feel good if the client is feeling discomfort. They may even want to pair a cold compress (ice pack, frozen peas… whatever is available really) with one of the suggestions below!

2. Cortisone Cream – This cream is a topical alleviant to allergic reactions and can assist in mild cases involving lash extensions and adhesive. If your client notices irritation, redness, and/or discomfort, suggest they use a small amount of cortisone cream to relieve the symptoms. This cream can be purchased over the counter.

3. Benadryl – Benadryl is the bomb-dot-com when it comes to clients with adhesive sensitivity. It won’t cure someone’s allergy to eyelash extension glue (unfortunately nothing will) but it will help to ease the sensitivity to chemicals present during/immediately after the lash appointment. After a short amount of time, the irritating chemical is no longer present.  If a client calls after their appointment with irritation, redness, and/or swelling around the lash line, Benadryl is a quick alleviant. It may also help them determine whether or not their sensitivity is severe. Suggest they take a small amount and monitor their symptoms over the next 48 hours. I’ve even had clients who know they have a mild allergy to eyelash extension glue; to prep for their appointment, they take Benadryl before they come in. Those client’s always seem to take the best lash naps…hmmm.

4. Urgent Care – Only mild symptoms can be treated at home and in some rare situations, it may be best that the client drop in to an urgent care or medical professional to determine whether or not they should have the lash extensions removed. They may even want to skip this step to save a coupe dollars, in which case you should suggest the client come in for a (complimentary) lash removal! During the removal, you can discuss with the client if lashes are right for them and whether or not they would like to try a sensitive adhesive (if not already used).

Experiencing an allergic reaction to eyelash glue or facing post-extension swelling, especially with only one eyelid swollen after eyelash extensions affected, can be distressing. Understanding how to handle these concerns ensures a seamless, beautiful lash journey. 

 If you find yourself with eyes swollen after eyelash extensions or encounter an eyelid swollen after lash extensions, first address any possible adhesive allergies. A reaction may include irritation, redness or swelling from glue; hypoallergenic adhesives should be chosen or consult a technician regarding different glue options to ensure safe lash applications and comfortable results.

In the case of only swollen eyelid lash extensions, it might be due to individual reactions, differing lash application techniques, or even accidental contact with the adhesive. Applying cold compresses or mild antihistamines should provide temporary relief; however if symptoms persist or worsen it's essential that medical advice be sought immediately.

Prioritize your lash health by discussing any concerns or allergies with your technician beforehand and opting for patch tests. Remember, if you encounter eyes swollen eyelid after eyelash extensions or eyelid swelling, swift, appropriate action ensures a safe and glamorous lash experience, empowering you to embrace the beauty of luscious, flawless lashes without compromising your comfort or well-being.

“Lashes are treated with a eyelash perm solution and then followed by the neutralizer. Sometimes, depending on which system you use, a nourishing oil will be the last step to recondition and strengthen the lashes. Each step is left on for ten to fifteen minutes”

Don't Panic! Although uncommon, eyelid swelling after extensions is possible and due to adhesive sensitivity or improper application. Quick remedies like cold compresses and mild antihistamines should help alleviate discomfort quickly; for persistent swelling it is advised to consult professional advice as quickly as possible and opt for patch tests and communicate any concerns beforehand to ensure an excellent experience and stunning lashes!

If a client is prone to sensitivity to products or adhesive, there are a few things you can do:

1. Try Sensitive Adhesive – Sensitive adhesive is a great option for clients with sensitivity. What do I mean by “sensitivity”? Ask your clients those four questions from before. If they say “yes” to 2 or less of the questions, it is likely sensitivity. Try The Lash Professional’s N5 Sensitive Eyelash Glue – it works wonders! If they answer “yes” to more than 2 of the questions I would advise you to tread lightly. Continuing to lash on a client who has persistent and uncontrollable reactions could cause permanent damage to the client’s lashes or even EYE! Suggest they try a “no lash” look (lol).

2. Ditch the Primer – Sometimes, oh so rare, but SOMETIMES… the client doesn’t have a GLUE allergy at all! There are other products we use that have chemicals in them, even some natural ingredients that clients may not tolerate well. Try to replace those products with alternatives. For example, rather than using a primer on your sensitive client, wash their lashes before each appointment. It will, essentially, accomplish the same thing, and may fix the problem!

3. Shorten the Fill Times – Suggest the client comes every week for a shorter fill rather than every two or three. The least amount of time as possible subjected to the fumes of the adhesive, the better! Cutting down the lash fill time will cut down the chances of sensitivity and reaction!

4. Fan the Lashes – If a shorter fill time doesn’t do the trick and your clients are still experiencing mild discomfort (a.k.a. their eyes are watering) try using a fan! As stated above (and in our blog on Eyelash Extension Glue Ingredients), there is a chemical present in adhesive during/immediately after lashing. That chemical goes away once the adhesive cures (no more than 24 hours). For clients who are sensitive to the chemical, it may be a good idea to use a fan throughout the appointment. Doing so will keep the fumes of the chemical from lingering around and causing your client discomfort. Try using the fan for a few minutes after the appointment. This will ensure those fumes are as good as gone.

How can we minimize the possibility of reactions, altogether?  Ensure our clients are educated, prepared, and comfortable at all times! Start with a waiver. You need-need-need to protect yourself and your business, but most importantly you need to protect your clients. How, you ask? By reading a thorough waiver they will be made aware of all the risks (and how to avoid them), ingredients, and aftercare instructions.

Same with a salon. Let me tell you how to sterilize your lash extension tools and share some tips to keep your space clean and organized!

• After any client – whether you used them to do a full set or just a removal.
• If you drop your tweezers – that is if (God forbid) the tip doesn’t bend.
• At the end of every work day – better safe than sorry.
• If you ever find your tweezers out and unattended – you never know who sneezed on or near the area…yuk!

When in doubt, clean it out! (That is the best I could come up with but, remember it!). You would hate to be the reason someone get’s an eye infection or an allergic reaction. When following guidelines, check out your state boards guidelines for lashing or the OSHA guidelines for sanitation! These guidelines have been meticulously developed to ensure clients remain safe! Safety, safety, safety.

Here are some simple go-to instructions for sanitizing your tools in some of the above situations:

1. After you’ve finished with your client, wash your tools with disinfectant soap and water.

2. Once you’ve washed your tools, place them in a glass container that contains Barbicide/Marvicide (it’s a Tuberculocidal hospital grade disinfectant, basically its intense).

3. After your tools soak for 10 minutes, you can remove them and wash them, again, thoroughly with soap and water.

Just be sure that after you spend all that time sanitizing and disinfecting your lash extension tools, you put them in a smart place to keep them ready for use!

I wish I could honestly say that sanitation is easy, well its not. There are a lot of steps and a lot of things to remember. Following this advice on cleanliness and steps on how to sterilize your lash extension tools, will however, benefit you for years and years to come. Keeping your business safe and your clients happy and healthy is the ultimate goal!

As a professional lash artist, your clients will come to you looking for advice and knowledge on lashes. While it is important to never give clients medical advice of any kind, you should stay educated on these topics.

This means having an answer when a client asks about an allergic reaction to eyelash extension glue or seeks advice on eyelash extension allergic reaction treatment options. When a reaction occurs, it will raise concerns for your client. 

Common client questions about eyelash extension irritation include:

• Why is my lash line so itchy?
• How do you help swollen eyelids after eyelash extensions?
• Why do I get an allergic reaction to eyelash extensions?
• Will an allergic reaction to eyelash extensions go away on its own?

In this guide to eyelash extension allergic reactions, we’ll address these topics and more. That way, you can pass your knowledge along to your clients to keep them informed and safe.

While an allergic reaction to eyelash extension glue is quite uncommon, it can still occur. Dealing with a client experiencing an eyelash extension allergic reaction can be one of the worst parts of being a lash artist. Having to inform the client that they will need a removal is unpleasant.

It’s important to know the signs of an allergic reaction to eyelash extensions and to be able to differentiate between an eyelash extension allergy and irritation. This will help you make the best judgment call to ensure your client’s safety.

While clients will often associate any sort of reaction as an allergic reaction to eyelash extensions, they are more than likely actually experiencing an irritation. While some of the warning signs between an eyelash extension allergy and an irritation may be similar, there are a few key differences.

*Quick Lash Tip: Always ask new clients to sign a waiver and release form prior to starting the service. This waiver should indicate the risks that are involved with lash extensions.

Reactions to lash extensions are rare and can show up in different forms. The most common include:

• Swollen eyes/eyelids
• Redness of the cornea
• Itchiness or discomfort around the eye area

These symptoms are likely to show up within the first 48 hours post-application. While an eyelash extension reaction that results in irritation will subside, an allergic reaction worsens overtime.

Reactions are likely to become increasingly worse and more dramatic the more the client is exposed to the allergen.

While irritations can have similar signs to allergies, they are often less severe and subside after the adhesive is cured. This occurs typically within the first 24 hours post-application. Often even just hours after.

Irritations can cause:

• Redness
• Itching
• Watery eyes

It is often the body’s reaction to the fumes being released from the adhesive as it cures. These irritations are likely to subside quickly and become milder as time goes on.

Irritations may also occur when a client is experiencing seasonal allergies or if their eyes tend to be more sensitive in general.

Are you experiencing an allergic reaction to eyelash extensions? While lash extensions can enhance your natural beauty, it's crucial to address any discomfort or reactions you may be encountering. An allergy to eyelash extensions can manifest in various ways, from itching and redness to swelling or irritation. We understand the importance of both aesthetics and safety when it comes to beauty enhancements.

Hypoallergenic lash extensions offer relief to individuals allergic to lash extensions. Our hypoallergenic extensions use gentle adhesives and materials designed for sensitive eyes to minimize risk. If you've previously experienced allergic reactions while getting extensions done or simply wish to prevent future ones altogether, our specially tailored products offer comfort and peace of mind.

“Conjunctivitis may also be caused by allergens such as pollen, perfumes, cosmetics, smoke, dust mites, Balsam of Peru, or eye drops.The most frequent cause of conjunctivitis is allergic conjunctivitis and it affects 15% to 40% of the population.”

Your eyes deserve only the finest care, which is why our selection of allergy to eyelash extensions test offers you an exquisitely luxurious experience. Discover longer, fuller lashes without risk of allergic reactions; invest in yourself today by selecting our allergy-friendly extensions; don't let sensitivities hold back from experiencing captivating eyelashes' allure; buy now and relish its glamour without incurring additional allergies worries!    

As with any other chemical or substance, a client can develop an allergic reaction to eyelash extension glue at any point in time. Even if they have been exposed to it before, with no prior reactions, as with other allergies, symptoms can become stronger and more severe over time, especially if the individual is continually exposed to the allergen after the initial reaction.

Therefore, if the initial reaction has not completely subsided in 24-48 hours post application, do not leave the lash extensions on or continue to re-expose the client to the allergen. Doing fills every couple of weeks will likely only worsen the problem over time.

If you've ever wondered how to help swollen eyelids after eyelash extensions, we've got you covered. It's essential to distinguish between an eyelash extension allergy vs irritation. Dealing with redness and puffiness? It could be an allergic reaction to lash extensions. Quality matters, so ensure your lash technician uses hypoallergenic adhesives and lashes. If irritation persists, consider a patch test to rule out allergies.

For general relief, try a cold compress to soothe swollen eyelids. If it's an eyelash extension allergy, consult a professional immediately. Choose quality over shortcuts to avoid the aftermath of an allergic reaction to lash extensions. Your eyes deserve the best care, ensuring a stunning look without compromising comfort and safety. Invest wisely in your lash extensions to enjoy the beauty without the puffiness.

Read More:  How to Care for Red Eyes After Eyelash Extensions

Ease discomfort with these effective remedies. Firstly, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and soothe irritation. Using over-the-counter artificial tears can help lubricate and calm the eyes. Ensure proper hygiene by avoiding rubbing or touching the eyes excessively. If symptoms persist, consult an eye specialist. Embrace your beauty worry-free by choosing hypoallergenic lash extensions to prevent red eyes after eyelash extensions. Take control of your eye health and enjoy stunning lashes with peace of mind. Treat your eyes to the care they deserve. You can get awarness as well as treatment Eyelash Extension Glue.

It is important to stay educated and knowledgeable. Be able to recognize the warning signs of eyelash extension allergic reactions. In turn, this keeps your clients safe.

However, you should never give your clients any medical advice. If they are experiencing a severe reaction or have any health concerns that may make them more susceptible to reactions, it is recommended that they consult with a healthcare professional. As much as we want to help our clients deal with these issues, sometimes it is out of our control.

Want to learn more about handling sensitive skin during the eyelash extension application process? The Lash Professional offers extensive training classes that can teach you how to apply eyelash extensions and extra precautions you can take to protect your client’s eyes. We’ll cover how to quickly respond to reactions and avoid them altogether more in-depth during these courses.