The Aftermath of False Eyelashes: Mites on the Skin, Eye Irritation, and Lacrimal Duct Closure

A study warns of changes in the eye area caused by adhesives and poor hygiene, noting that “many women do not rub their eyes for fear of losing the implants.”

Tiny mites known as Demodex live on human skin. They are commonly found in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of many people without causing any issues. These microscopic organisms are part of the ecosystem of microorganisms that accompany us throughout our lives.

The problem arises when their population grows out of control. Specifically, if the density exceeds five mites per square centimeter of skin, conditions affecting the eye area develop. This is driven by an increase in the Demodex folliculorum species, which inhabit the lash growth zone.

The condition leads to inflammation of the eyelid margin, a state identified as Demodex blepharitis, according to Trinidad Montero, a dermatologist with the Contact Dermatitis and Skin Allergy Group (GEIDAC). She noted that patients may also experience a painful skin reaction known as demodicosis, a finding highlighted in a recent study presented at the Congress of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons.

The research further indicates that a significant number of women suffer from eye irritation and blocked tear ducts. These issues stem from dysfunction in the tiny meibomian glands located near the eyelashes, which secrete an oily substance essential for preventing the eyes from drying out.

What is causing the disruption in the mite's ecosystem?

The overuse of adhesives, including those with unsuitable ingredients, for false eyelashes, combined with the improper application of mascara—particularly waterproof formulas that are not removed at night and whose residue persists for days due to a lack of thorough and exhaustive cleansing.

Tetiana Zhmud, from the Department of Ophthalmology at Pirogov National Medical University in Vinnytsia, Ukraine, presented the study’s findings at the medical conference. “Eyelash extensions are a highly popular cosmetic procedure among young women, as they provide the appearance of longer, fuller lashes without the need for mascara,” she explained in a statement.

At the same time, Zhmud clarified that “there is growing evidence that this procedure can cause issues on the ocular surface, such as irritation, dry eye symptoms, and dysfunction of the Meibomian glands. However, the relationship between eyelash extensions and demodicosis is not yet well understood.”

Zhmud and colleagues surveyed 345 women aged 16 to 28. The study found that nearly a quarter of the participants had used eyelash extensions at some point. More than half of the group, specifically 58%, applied the extensions every three or four weeks. Among those who used the extensions, 47.6% reported experiencing discomfort, redness, tearing, or itching following the procedure.

In the subgroup of women who had undergone the extension procedure at least 10 times, researchers identified signs of Meibomian gland dysfunction in the majority, or 85%. This condition arose because the glands were either blocked or failed to produce the appropriate oils necessary to keep the eyes lubricated.

How do the problems associated with the infection begin?

A representative of the Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (AEDV) outlined the specific hazards posed by adhesives in the periocular region. “In the case of eyelash extensions, one of the mechanisms that could favor this proliferation is precisely the difficulty in performing adequate hygiene of the eyelid margin,” the spokesperson stated.

The adhesive itself, according to the dermatologist, “can produce other independent problems, fundamentally irritation. The cyanoacrylates present in some adhesives act as sensitizers and produce allergic contact dermatitis.”

Montero emphasized that proper cleaning is critical. “Some users avoid rubbing the area for fear that the extensions will last less or detach. This causes the accumulation of sebum, dead cells, and makeup residue around the area, creating favorable conditions for the excessive growth of Demodex.”

Dermatologist Montero warns that waterproof mascara formulations, which are more resistant to removal, may necessitate increased mechanical friction or the use of specialized cleansing agents. She clarifies that this does not inherently make the products more hazardous, but notes that incomplete or overly aggressive removal techniques can contribute to inflammation of the eyelid margins and the ocular surface.

To mitigate these risks, the AEDV spokesperson outlines several fundamental preventive measures. These include maintaining rigorous hygiene of the eyelid margins, ensuring thorough makeup removal before sleep, avoiding the sharing of cosmetic products, replacing mascara regularly, and exercising heightened hygiene protocols when wearing eyelash extensions. She emphasizes that these straightforward practices can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing related complications.