Eyelash extensions are a popular beauty treatment that many women regularly undergo, and while they might look great, they could potentially pose a pretty nasty danger: the proliferation of Demodex, or lash lice.
- It’s all about a lack of cleaning. You might be ginger with your lash extensions so as not to disturb them or remove any of the hairs, but that’s a serious problem. Doctors warn that bacterial build-up in the lashes could lead to lash lice developing.
- How do you know if you have it? According to ABC7, symptoms of lash lice include redness, irritation, and itching in the area. If you’re experiencing any of those things, it’s important to see a doctor as it’s really not normal.
- Yes, they’re contagious. Just like regular lice, lash lice can jump from person to person, so you can potentially pass these on to other people if you have them, which is NOT good.
- If you do get lash lice, you’ll need to want rid of them ASAP. There are several ways of doing this, one of which includes applying petroleum jelly to the lashes for two hours, twice daily as well as using a special shampoo. That being said, you should consult your doctor as the eyes are sensitive and you don’t want to irritate them further. Your doctor will be able to tell you the best treatment options for your particular case.
- So how can you keep your lashes clean in the first place and avoid this altogether? Dr. Sairah Malik recommends using a tea tree oil-based cleaner since it’s antibacterial and should prohibit the growth of any mites. She also said the best way to prevent it is to give your natural lashes a break from the extensions every once in a while. You’re just as beautiful without them, I promise.
