Eyelash extensions have become a popular method for enhancing one’s natural beauty. These extensions can provide a more glamorous, dramatic, or natural look, depending on personal preferences. However, like any cosmetic procedure, eyelash extensions are not without potential risks and side effects. One of the discomforting issues that some individuals may encounter after getting eyelash extensions is eyelash pain. In this article, we’ll delve into the potential causes of why do my eyelashes hurt, strategies to treat it, and effective ways to prevent it.
Causes of Eyelash Pain
It’s important to note that the eyelashes themselves don’t directly cause eyelash pain, as they lack nerve endings and cannot experience pain. Instead, the discomfort originates from the surrounding areas, including the base of the lashes. Here are some of the common causes of eyelash pain:
- Ingrown Eyelashes
Ingrown eyelashes occur when lashes grow inward towards the eye, causing them to rub against the eye and inner eyelid, leading to irritation and pain. This condition may also result in redness, tearing, sensitivity to light, and a sensation of having a foreign body in the eye.
- Blepharitis
Blepharitis is characterized by inflammation of the eyelid margin where the eyelashes are attached. Bacterial infections can cause it, blocked oil glands, or other factors. Symptoms include redness, itchiness, burning, watery eyes, foaming in the eye, dryness, sensitivity to light, and crusty eyelids or eyelashes.
- Stye
A stye is a red bump that forms along the eyelid’s edge, often caused by a bacterial infection of an oil gland or a hair follicle. This painful condition can also hurt the eyelashes, swelling, watery eyes, redness, and pus.
- Eyelash Mites
Tiny parasites known as eyelash mites can live on human skin and hair follicles, including the eyelashes. These mites can cause eye irritation, eyelash pain, dandruff, crusting, watery eyes, itching, burning, blurry vision, and chronic blepharitis.
- Entropion
Entropion is a condition where the eyelid folds inward towards the eye, causing the eyelashes to scrape against the eye’s surface, leading to pain and discomfort. Other symptoms include redness, sensitivity to light and wind, watery eyes, crusty eyelids, mucus discharge, and a foreign body sensation in the eye.
- Eyelash Lice
While rare, eyelash lice are pubic lice that can infest the eyelashes and feed on blood. They can cause itchiness and burning in the eye area, as well as swelling, redness, grittiness, and the appearance of brown or black spots along the eyelashes.
Treating Eyelash Pain
The treatment for eyelash pain largely depends on its underlying cause. However, some general strategies can help alleviate discomfort:
- Avoid rubbing or scratching your eyes or eyelids.
- Apply a warm compress. This can be done for 10 to 15 minutes daily to soothe inflammation and promote healing.
- Use artificial tears or lubricating eye drops. These help moisten your eyes and relieve dryness.
- Clean your eyelids gently. Use a mild soap or diluted baby shampoo to maintain cleanliness.
- Ensure that you remove your eye makeup every night before going to bed.
- Avoid using mascara or other irritating products. Products that irritate your eyes or clog your oil glands should be avoided.
- If you suspect an infection or inflammation of your eye or eyelid, seek appropriate medical treatment.
Preventing Eyelash Pain
Prevention is always better than a cure, and preventive measures can be highly effective for eyelash pain. Choose a qualified and licensed technician to apply your eyelash extensions. Ensure that the salon maintains sanitary conditions and adheres to hygiene practices. Before getting eyelash extensions, ask for a patch test to check for allergic reactions to the glue or other materials used.
During the extension procedure, keeping your eyes closed helps prevent glue or vapor from entering your eye. Avoid sleeping on your face or rubbing your eyes, as this can damage your eyelash extensions or natural lashes. If you decide to stop wearing eyelash extensions, have them removed professionally to avoid damage to your natural lashes.
Conclusion
Eyelash extensions are a fantastic way to enhance natural beauty, but they are not without challenges. Eyelash pain can be an uncomfortable consequence of poorly applied extensions or underlying eye and eyelid conditions. By understanding the potential causes and implementing the recommended treatments and prevention measures, you can enjoy the glamour of eyelash extensions without the discomfort. If you experience severe or persistent eyelash pain, it is crucial to consult a medical professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
