Eyelash Extensions, Dry Eye & Keratitis: Risks & Tips
In recent years, the prevalence of dry eye has increased due to the widespread use of computers and smartphones, as well as changes in lifestyles and environments. Did you know that dry eye requires special attention, even when enjoying beauty treatments like eyelash extensions?
This article provides a clear explanation of dry eye and keratitis (corneal inflammation), which has been reported as a potential issue with eyelash extensions. We'll cover their causes, symptoms, and preventative measures you can take in daily life. It's packed with tips for safely enjoying eyelash extensions while protecting your eye health.
What is Dry Eye? Symptoms and Causes
Dry eye is a condition where the eye's health is compromised because changes in the quantity or quality of tears reduce the ability to keep the eye's surface lubricated. The surface of the eye becomes dry and more susceptible to damage, leading to various uncomfortable symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Dry Eye
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Dry, tired eyes
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Eye discomfort, heavy sensation, stinging or burning
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Sensitivity to light, eye pain
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Blurred vision
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Stringy mucus in or around the eyes
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Gritty sensation in the eyes
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Redness, itching, feeling of heat in the eyes
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Difficulty seeing
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Watery eyes (surprisingly, as a reflex to irritation)
These symptoms vary from person to person, and many individuals experience multiple symptoms simultaneously.
Main Causes of Dry Eye
Dry eye often results from a combination of factors:
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Reduced Blinking: Staring at screens (computers, smartphones) for long periods, driving, or other tasks requiring concentration reduces blink rate, hindering tear secretion.
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Dry Air: Dry air in winter or from indoor heating and air conditioning accelerates tear evaporation.
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Contact Lens Use: Lenses can destabilize the tear film, impede oxygen supply to the cornea, or reduce eye sensitivity, leading to decreased tear production.
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Stress and Tension: Prolonged tension activates the sympathetic nervous system, which can decrease tear secretion.
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Lifestyle Habits: A night-owl lifestyle strains the eyes during nighttime when tear production naturally decreases.
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Aging: Tear production tends to decrease with age, and tear quality can also change.
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Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): Blockage of the oil-secreting Meibomian glands along the eyelid margin results in an insufficient oil layer in the tears, causing them to evaporate too quickly.
Precautions for Eyelash Extension Application: For Those with Dry Eye
If you know or suspect you have dry eye when getting eyelash extensions, it's crucial to inform your eyelash technician beforehand.
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Consultation: The technician should explain the risks associated with dry eye and emphasize specific precautions. If you're currently undergoing treatment, prioritize consulting your doctor.
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Emphasize "Don't Rub Your Eyes": People with dry eye tend to have corneas that are more susceptible to injury. Rubbing your eyes, especially when an extension is loose, risks scratching the cornea with the hardened adhesive. It's vital to consciously avoid rubbing your eyes vigorously after the procedure.
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Preventing Dryness During Application: The way tape is applied to secure the eyelids during the procedure can sometimes prevent the eyes from closing completely, leading to dryness. The technician must apply tape carefully and confirm the client's eyes are fully closed during the application.
Everyday Tips for Dry Eye Prevention and Management
Incorporate these simple habits into your daily routine to alleviate or prevent dry eye symptoms:
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Conscious Blinking: Make an effort to blink more frequently, especially during screen time.
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Take Breaks: Rest your eyes for about 10 minutes every hour. Look into the distance or close your eyes. Applying a warm compress can also be beneficial.
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Environmental Adjustments:
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Position screens slightly below eye level to avoid looking upwards.
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Minimize screen glare and adjust room lighting and screen brightness appropriately.
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Avoid direct airflow from air conditioners or fans hitting your face. Use a humidifier to maintain adequate room humidity.
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Eye Drops: Using preservative-free artificial tears can be effective. However, avoid habitual use without consulting an ophthalmologist.
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Contact Lenses: Consider reducing wear time or choosing lenses designed for dry eyes. If symptoms persist, discontinue use and consult an eye doctor.
What is Keratitis? Its Connection to Eyelash Extensions
Keratitis is a general term for inflammation of the cornea (the clear front part of the eye, often called the "black eye" in Japanese contexts). It has been reported as a potential complication related to eyelash extensions.
The case example mentioned in the original PDF described a situation where a detached eyelash extension entered the eye. The person rubbed their eye, causing a corneal abrasion (scratch) which then became infected, leading to bacterial keratitis.
About Keratitis (Especially Bacterial Keratitis)
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Cause: Occurs when bacteria enter the cornea, often through a scratch or injury. Trauma, improper contact lens use, and dry eye can be contributing factors.
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Symptoms: Include eye pain, foreign body sensation, redness, decreased vision, and increased tearing or discharge. In severe cases, the cornea may appear cloudy (corneal ulcer).
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Treatment: Typically involves antibiotic eye drops. Severe cases might require intravenous antibiotics.
Conclusion: Enjoying Beauty While Protecting Your Eye Health
Dry eye is a very common issue in modern life. If you wear eyelash extensions or are considering them, it's important to understand the risks associated with dry eye and the potential, though less common, risk of keratitis.
Adopt eye-friendly habits in your daily life and approach eyelash extensions with the right knowledge. If you experience any eye discomfort or abnormalities, don't self-diagnose – always consult an ophthalmologist promptly.
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