The glue uses can lead to catastrophic consequences, the doctor has warned
A doctor has issued a stark warning to anyone who wears fake eyelashes, as the expert said the cosmetic items could actually cause blindness. Dr Saurabh Sethi said: “The adhesive glue often contains formaldehyde, which can cause allergic reactions, thinning and permanent loss of natural eyelashes.
“In rare cases, it can even lead to blindness.” To reduce the dangers, he recommends people either avoid fake eyelashes altogether or opt for adhesives without formaldehyde.
Social media users have been quick to respond with their own experiences. Megan said: “I wore them for an event, and my eyes got infected. I had to find a salon that could remove them. Never again.” Sky said: “Sad. They’re so bad looking”.
According to the UK’s National Poisons Information Service, there are between 100 to 150 incidents involving glue-related eye injuries reported each year. However, ophthalmologists believe the actual number is much higher as not all cases are reported to NPIS, and not every sufferer seeks help from A&E.
Potential injuries range from severe ulcers and chemical burns to corneal perforation. While false lashes themselves are typically made from harmless polyester fibres, or sometimes real animal or human hair, it’s the cyanoacrylate-based glues and preservatives that are the main culprits behind most injuries.
Most eyelash extension adhesives are concocted from cyanoacrylate, which is essentially a rapid-curing adhesive, similar to the household superglue. In the process of manufacturing or setting, as this glue interacts with the moisture in the air, minuscule quantities of formaldehyde might be discharged as an unintended byproduct.
It’s also worth noting that even lash glues labelled as “formaldehyde-free” can emit infinitesimal amounts of formaldehyde (measured in parts per million) while they cure.