Eyelash Extension Side Effects

Eyelash extensions are everywhere—salons, spas, even at-home kits. They make lashes longer and fuller without the hassle of mascara. You wake up looking ready.

But any time something goes near your eyes, it’s smart to know what could happen. Most people never run into problems. Still, a few do. That’s why this article exists.

We’re not here to scare you. We’re here to lay out the facts. This is what can happen when you get lash extensions, what usually causes it, and how to avoid it. And if you’ve had a reaction before, we’ll talk about when to take a break or try a different route.

What Are Eyelash Extensions?

Let’s start at the beginning. Eyelash extensions are thin fibers, glued to your natural lashes—one at a time. A lash tech applies them while you lie still with your eyes shut. It takes about 90 minutes, sometimes more.

The lashes can be made of synthetic, silk, or mink. You can choose the length, curl, and thickness. Once applied, they stay on for a few weeks. They shed with your natural lashes, not all at once.

These aren’t the same as strip lashes. You don’t peel them off at night. And they’re not clusters either. These are custom-built sets designed to match your lash line.

If you’re new to lashes and wondering how it all works, the lash extension guide is a great place to start.

Common Eyelash Extension Side Effects

So what can go wrong? Usually nothing. But sometimes, people notice a few things shortly after getting extensions. These are the most common:

Redness around the lash line
A slight itching or burning feeling
Watery eyes for a few hours
Lashes falling out faster than expected
A tight, heavy feeling around the eyes

Most of this clears up fast. A little eye watering? It’s the glue fumes. Some redness? Maybe your skin was rubbed too hard. Lash shedding? Could be the extensions were too thick.

If anything feels off after 24 hours, check in with your tech. It might be a simple fix—lighter lashes, a different glue, or better aftercare instructions.

Want to read why people get lashes in the first place? See our breakdown on the benefits of lash extensions.

Eyelash Extensions Side Effects Long Term

Now, let’s talk long term. Wearing lash extensions a few times a year? You probably won’t see any issues. Wearing them nonstop with no breaks? You might.

Here’s what people sometimes notice over time:

Thinner lashes than before
Gaps in the lash line
Lashes that snap or grow slower
Skin around the lash line becoming sensitive
A feeling that your lashes just aren’t “bouncing back”

This doesn’t happen to everyone. But when it does, it’s usually tied to heavy sets, poor aftercare, or never letting your lashes rest. Some lash wearers go years without a break. That’s when things start to wear down.

Solution? Take a break. Give your lashes a few weeks to rest and recover. Use eyelash-enhancing products to help them grow back strong. You don’t need to quit extensions forever—but pacing yourself helps.

Causes Behind Side Effects

What triggers all this? Usually one of four things:

The glue: Some glues use strong ingredients. Even trace amounts of formaldehyde (yes, really) can cause irritation. If you feel burning or itching every time you get lashes, it might be the adhesive.
Poor technique: If lashes are stuck too close to your lid, if they’re glued in clumps, or if the tech uses dirty tools—your eyes will let you know. Fast.
Not cleaning your lashes: Yes, you still have to wash them. Gently, with a lash-safe cleanser. If not, bacteria can build up at the base, leading to itching, redness, and worse.
Too much, too often: Going too long without a break, or choosing extensions that are too thick or long, weakens your real lashes. Eventually, they give up.

How to Minimize Risks

There’s no way to guarantee zero side effects. But you can tip the odds in your favor.

Here’s how:

Go to a licensed lash technician
Ask about glue ingredients, especially if you’ve reacted before
Do a patch test if it’s your first time
Skip eye makeup the day of your appointment
Clean your lashes with a gentle cleanser every 1–2 days
Avoid rubbing, pulling, or sleeping on your face
Don’t go heavier than your natural lashes can handle

A good lash artist will help you choose a style that’s safe. If they don’t ask about your natural lash condition? Find someone else.

When to Speak to a Professional

If something feels off, don’t ignore it. Minor irritation is normal. But some things aren’t.

Here’s when to speak up:

Redness that sticks around: If your eyes are still red the next day—and especially if it’s spreading or getting worse—it could be a reaction to the glue or an early sign of infection.
Stinging or burning that doesn’t stop: A quick sting when glue is applied is normal. But ongoing pain, especially when blinking, is not.
Swelling, crusting, or pus: If your eyelids start to puff up, feel warm to the touch, or develop crust, call your lash tech or a doctor. These are signs of a possible infection.
Lashes falling out in clumps: Losing a few lashes a day is fine. But if you’re waking up with big gaps or finding lashes all over your pillow, something’s off—maybe the extensions were too heavy or attached incorrectly.
Tender or sore eyelids: If it hurts to touch your eyelids, or if they feel bruised or raw, your lashes may be pulling at the roots or irritating the skin underneath.

Tell your lash tech first. If they can’t help, or if it’s something more serious, go to your doctor. And don’t try to pull lashes off yourself. That’ll only make it worse.

References

Docquity. (2025, February 10). Eyelash extensions: The beauty trend with hidden risks. Retrieved from https://docquity.com/articles/eyelash-extensions-beauty-trend/

Healthline. (2018, November 4). What are side effects of eyelash extensions? Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/eyelash-extension-side-effects

EyeWiki. (2025, March 10). Eyelash extensions. Retrieved from https://eyewiki.org/Eyelash_Extensions

Common Questions About This Topic

Can eyelash extensions cause permanent damage?

Not if they’re done right. A skilled technician will apply them in a way that protects your natural lashes. Damage tends to happen when people wear extensions back-to-back with no breaks, go to someone untrained, or try to pull them off at home. That kind of stress can weaken the lash follicle. But if you follow aftercare instructions and give your lashes a chance to rest now and then, they usually recover just fine.

How do I know if I’m allergic to eyelash extensions?

Swelling, itching, and watery eyes—especially within the first few hours—are common signs of a mild allergic reaction. Some people also notice a tight feeling around the lash line or redness that doesn’t fade overnight. If this happens every time you get a new set, it’s likely the glue. Ask your lash tech if they offer adhesives for sensitive eyes, and request a patch test before your next appointment. That way, you can see how your skin reacts before committing to a full set.

Will taking breaks help?

Yes, absolutely. Your lashes go through a natural growth cycle, and giving them time without the weight of extensions helps them stay strong. Think of it like getting your nails done—if you constantly wear acrylics or gel without a break, your natural nails can get thin or weak. Lashes are similar. Even a short two-week pause between sets lets them recover, breathe, and grow back at their own pace. Regular breaks also lower the chance of long-term thinning or shedding.

Is it normal for lashes to fall out after extensions?

Yes. You naturally lose a few lashes every day. With extensions, you’ll notice it more. If a lot fall out fast, that’s a red flag. It might be the style or the glue.

Can I wear mascara with lash extensions?

You can, but you shouldn’t. It clumps, weakens the glue, and makes cleaning harder. Most people skip it completely once they see how full their lashes already are.