Beauty Trend Alert: Potential Eye Health Risks from Cosmetic Contacts
As we embrace the new year of 2025, many individuals are updating their beauty routines, with false eyelashes emerging as a top trend. However, an eye health expert has issued a warning that this beauty staple may be causing more harm than anticipated. The surge in popularity of false eyelashes, whether through salon extensions or store-bought options for at-home application, has been remarkable in recent years. What’s even more surprising is the shift in the age demographic of consumers, with a growing number of young individuals now incorporating false eyelashes into their daily beauty routines.
The Rising Trend of False Eyelashes
Research indicates that 33% of Gen Z women (born between 1997 and 2012) are using false eyelashes, compared to just 17% of women overall. This resurgence is believed to stem from innovative eyelash trends originating in Korea and Japan, now spreading worldwide. As beauty influencers showcase intricate makeup looks, many Gen Z women aspire to replicate these styles, turning false eyelashes into a beauty essential. However, the potential consequences of incorrect application, the use of eyelash glue near the eye, extended wear periods without proper eye hygiene, can lead to detrimental eye infections, posing risks to our eye health.
Expert Insight on Eye Health Risks
Optometrist Francesca Marchetti, advising GoldenEye, highlights the dangers associated with false eyelashes. Research has shown that eyelash extensions can disrupt ocular surface balance, resulting in corneal epithelial defects and decreased tear film stability, ultimately impacting vision. Studies in Cornea: the Journal of Cornea and External Disease have linked eyelash extensions to various ocular disorders like keratoconjunctivitis and allergic blepharitis, emphasizing the negative impact on eye health.
Common Beauty Eye Infections
Francesca explains that false eyelashes can lead to common eye infections, similar to issues arising from outdated eye makeup like mascara or eyeshadow. Styes, bacterial infections of the eyelash follicles or nearby glands, can cause red, swollen lumps on the eyelid, accompanied by itchiness and watering. Conjunctivitis, known as pink eye, results from inflammation of the eyelid membrane, leading to redness, warmth, itchiness, and watery discharge. Blepharitis, eyelid inflammation, can manifest as itchy, gritty eyes with crusty eyelids sticking together upon waking. These conditions serve as cautionary tales for false eyelash wearers, emphasizing the importance of eye health hygiene.
Eye Health Recommendations
Francesca offers practical advice for maintaining eye health while enjoying beauty trends. Visiting reputable salons with proper accreditation for eyelash applications can minimize infection risks. Removing makeup before bed and avoiding rubbing the eyes can prevent bacterial growth and irritation. Understanding correct application techniques, seeking immediate treatment for eye infections, and disposing of expired makeup products are crucial steps in safeguarding eye health.
In conclusion, while false eyelashes enhance beauty aesthetics, they also pose significant risks to eye health if not handled appropriately. By following expert recommendations and prioritizing eye hygiene, individuals can enjoy beauty trends safely and protect their vision for years to come. Remember, when it comes to your eyes, prevention is key.