This is why you need to clean your lash extensions every day

e you ever experienced itching or irritation whilst wearing lash extensions that comes and goes, or a gritty feeling that happens for no apparent reason? Or perhaps, you clean your lashes a couple of times a week/sporadically, but your lash stylist still asks you at your infill appointments if you are cleaning them at all? Or maybe, you don’t clean them (very naughty!) – because it’s never really been something you’ve thought about much before?

You may have what is known as Blepharitis.

I’m going to delve into this common condition a little bit and how it interacts with lash extensions – and most importantly, how you can prevent it. As yes – sigh of relief – in most cases, you can still wear lash extensions!

I’ve been kindly assisted by Paola Pham, Optometrist (B. Optometry UNSW) at EyeQ for this article, who has given her expert advice in the area and answered my many questions. She’s also familiar with lash extensions and knows exactly how they work.

Blepharitis is an eyelid condition where the eyelid becomes inflamed and irritated, and dandruff-like flakes can form on the lids, near the base of the eyelashes. One of the main causes is not cleaning your eyelids properly.

According to Paola, the most common symptoms of Blepharitis are “itchy, swollen, puffy lid margins. The eyes might feel gritty, with a burning/stinging sensation and quite watery. The eyelashes can get crusty and stuck together. If it is not managed in a timely manner, the whole eyelid can become very tender, swollen and red”.

This doesn’t sound nice at all!

“There is a natural amount of bacteria that lives on the eyelashes and eyelids, but when the lashes or eyelids aren’t cleaned properly, the bacteria grows excessively and causes an infection, which is called Blepharitis. It can also arise when the little glands (Meibomian Glands) at the edge of lids become blocked with makeup, natural oils from your skin or use of eye creams too close to the eyelid margin,” said Paola.

And how exactly do eyelash extensions relate to this? Well, when one is wearing lashes, there is a tendency to leave them alone so as not to disturb them, and the eyelids therefore sometimes don’t get the attention they need in terms of proper cleaning/friction. The lash extensions themselves aren’t causing it; however, the lack of sufficient cleansing and build-up of skin, oil and other nasties are. If you are wearing extensions long term, prone to Blepharitis and not cleaning your eyelids very well, then there is the perfect storm for this condition to flare up.

Certain people can be more prone to the condition – according to Paola, Blepharitis is generally more prevalent amongst “more mature age groups and in individuals with skin conditions such as rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis”.

However, the big question for all of us lash addicts out there – is – can you still wear eyelash extensions if you are prone to blepharitis?

“Absolutely!” said Paola – however, she recommends doing a patch test with your lash technician first and choosing a clinic that uses the best quality glue and lashes, in a hygienic environment.

Most importantly, there are special steps you can take if you are prone to Blepharitis – but really, everyone who wears lash extensions should be taking these steps to keep them clean, as it can develop over time.

“For people prone to Blepharitis, be extra diligent in following the recommended cleaning regimen and maintenance instructions for your lash extensions. Keeping the eyelids clean is key, using the foaming cleanser daily and brushing the lashes help keep any excess oil and bacteria from building up. Practicing good eyelid hygiene is paramount, e.g., not touching or picking at the eyelashes, minimizing eye rubbing, always washing hands prior to inserting contact lenses or applying makeup” Paola advises.

If you do experience any of these issues following lash extensions, or the eyelids start to feel very itchy and look swollen, Paola recommends seeing an Optometrist or GP for proper diagnosis and treatment, and “always speak with your lash consultant as well as your eyecare provider to co-manage the best resolution”.