LONDON: Frequent use of eyelash extensions may be associated with the accumulation of microscopic Demodex mites around the eyelashes, potentially contributing to eye irritation and other symptoms, according to research presented at a European ophthalmology conference.
The study, led by ophthalmologist Dr Tetiana Zhmud and researchers at Ukraine’s National Pirogov Memorial Medical University, examined 345 women aged 16 to 28. About half of the participants said they had eyelash extensions applied every three to four weeks, equivalent to around 17 procedures a year. Nearly 48% reported discomfort, redness or itching after the procedure.
Demodex Mites Found in 96% of Tested Samples
Researchers examined eyelash samples from 25 women who regularly used extensions and detected Demodex mites in 24 of them, or 96%. Among those 25 women, 18 also showed symptoms including itching, irritation, redness, swelling, flaky skin or sticky eyelashes.
Demodex mites are microscopic organisms commonly found around hair follicles in adults and do not necessarily cause health problems. However, excessive accumulation can be associated with eyelid inflammation and other eye-related symptoms.
Researchers suggested that extensions and adhesive residue may trap dead skin cells and other material around the lash line, potentially creating conditions that allow the mites to accumulate and making them more difficult to detect.
Frequent Use May Affect Eyelid Glands
Another finding reported from the research involved the meibomian glands, which produce oils that help prevent tears from evaporating too quickly.
Among women who had undergone at least 10 eyelash-extension procedures, 85% showed signs of blocked glands or reduced oil production in examinations reported by the researchers. Such gland dysfunction can contribute to dry-eye symptoms.
The findings indicate a possible association between frequent eyelash-extension use and eye-surface problems, but they do not establish that extensions directly cause Demodex infestation or every reported symptom. Further research is needed to clarify the relationship.
Hygiene and Warning Signs
Eye specialists have emphasized the importance of good eyelid hygiene for people who regularly use extensions. Researchers have recommended gentle cleaning of the eyelids and lashes and paying attention to symptoms such as persistent itching, redness, irritation or changes in vision.
Anyone experiencing ongoing or worsening eye symptoms, particularly blurred vision, should seek assessment from an eye-care professional rather than assuming the symptoms are simply a cosmetic-treatment reaction.