Eyelash extensions may come with an unwelcome risk: a buildup of tiny mites that can settle along the lash line and, in some cases, interfere with vision.
Research suggests that as many as 96 per cent of people who regularly have the popular beauty treatment may be affected by the microscopic pests.
The mites, known medically as demodex, thrive on dead skin cells that can accumulate in the dried adhesive used to secure synthetic lashes, creating conditions that allow them to multiply quickly.
Experts say lash extensions can also trap dead mites at the base of the eyelashes, preventing them from being shed naturally.
Doctors warn that a demodex infestation linked to eyelash extensions can lead to uncomfortable and potentially serious symptoms, including itching, flaky or scaly skin and blurred vision.
Around 129,000 eyelash procedures are carried out every week in the UK. In extension treatments beauticians glue strands of synthetic fibres to the eyelids, making the lashes appear fuller and longer.
Treatments cost anywhere from £40 to £150.
Eye doctors found 96 per cent of women who have the beauty procedure every three to four weeks were crawling with mites
The mites, known as demodex folliculorum, irritate follicles and block oil-producing glands, triggering a painful reaction known as demodicosis
But now, ophthalmologists have warned of ‘growing evidence’ the procedure ‘may create problems’.
Experts from the National Pirogov Memorial Medical University in Ukraine presented compelling evidence of harm at the 44th Congress of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS).
The research, conducted by ophthalmologist Dr Tetiana Zhmud and her team, involved surveying 345 women aged between 16 and 28 to ask how often they had eyelash extensions.
Half of the women said they had the procedure every three to four weeks – the equivalent to around 17 times per year.
Some 48 per cent said they suffered with a form of discomfort, redness or itching afterwards.
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To analyse these reports in greater detail, researchers used a technique called meibography – using infrared light to analyse the glands beneath the eyelids.
The test showed that 85 per cent of women who’d had eyelash extensions at least ten times had glands that were blocked or not producing enough oil to keep eyes hydrated.
The team then used a microscope to analyse samples of eyelashes from 25 women who regularly had the procedure.
They found the mites in 24 of them, equating to 96 per cent. Meanwhile, 18 of the women also showed signs of itching, irritation, redness, swelling, scaly skin and sticky eyelashes.
Dr Tetiana Zhmud, an ophthalmologist at the National Pirogov Memorial Medical University in Ukraine, led and presented the research
While demodex mites are very common in adults, they usually shed naturally and do not cause harm.
But when they accumulate excessively – usually because they get trapped in debris or proliferate unusually – they can trigger painful eye infections.
Experts added that, as well as causing the problem, eyelash extensions can also make the parasitic mites harder to spot.
‘Usually if they are present on the eyelashes, we spot them by the “collarettes” they leave around the eyelashes,’ said Professor Sorcha Ni Dhubhghaill, chair of the ESCRS Cornea Committee, who was not involved in the research.
‘These are waxy rings made up of dead mites, mite faeces and mite eggs, mixed with skin and oil.
‘Since the adhesive used during eyelash extension procedures is applied near the base of the natural lashes, where collarettes are typically located, it could be much harder to spot them in women using eyelash extensions.’
Dr Zhmud said the latest findings highlight the importance of good hygiene, awareness of red flags and timely assessment when problems symptoms arise.
The expert recommended those who undergo extension treatments to clean eyelids twice a day with a gentle cleanser and lash brush.