Are eyelash extensions safe?

Eyelash extensions are safe IF they are properly applied by the technician and properly cared for by you, between visits.

Most of the concerns about eyelash extension safety fall into two categories: 
1)  application
and
2)  safety and hygiene (both during the salon visit and hygiene performed by the client.)

Concerns about eyelash extension applications are:
1)  testing for allergy or intolerance of products BEFORE first fill

Most US based glues for lash extensions are tested for safety and toxicity and contain the following products in various combinations: 
Cyanoacrylate Ester (Ethyl-2 Cyanoacrylate), Poly Methyl Methanacrylate, Elastimer Agent.  Glue from reputable companies is formaldehyde
free or falls below levels specified by the FDA and OSHA as significant or hazardous. 

As with all beauty products, it is advised to conduct a patch test before using a new product.  Since eyelash extensions are on the eye
I consider it of the utmost importance to patch test lash product before first full set.  Conducting a patch test helps to minimize the
likelihood of discovering too late that the client has a significant allergic reaction to the product.   
Allergic reactions may still happen but with a patch test we have done due diligence in attempting to avoid them.
 


2)  correct natural lash isolation by the technician

Skilled lash technicians are trained and have practiced many hours the ambidextrous skill of individual lash isolation.  When applying
lash extensions it is imperative that the lash extension is applied to one and only one lash.  Lashes improperly isolated, extensions
applied to more than one natural lash, or glue that touches the eyelid or more than one natural lash is a professional tragedy. 
It causes pain for the client and damages the natural lashes.

3) selection of proper lash extension for each individual lash

Not all clients and not all lashes are the same.  Each lash on each client is unique.  Lashes are at different growth stages and have different
inherent health and strength.  Some lashes can support longer, thicker extensions.  Some lashes can support shorter, smaller gauged extensions. 
Some lashes are young, or damaged; they are not strong enough and should not have a lash extension applied to them.   
In some cases, clients may find they are not candidates for lash extensions.


4) use of unsafe glues

Quality and safe lash extension glue is very expensive and has a frustratingly short shelf life.  It is unwise to use glues from
outside the country that are not tested by or do not follow the FDA and OSHA guidelines.  Please see (1) above.


Concerns about safety hygiene are:
1)  proper sterilization of equipment by the technician 
2) protection of eyes, using proper pad/tape placement by the technician
3) proper humidity and air movement in salon environment

4) infection from improper lash hygiene by the client

The client needs to care for and clean the eyelash extensions between visits.  Because the eyelash extension and the glue
are sitting on the surface of the eyelash there is a new surface that can hold oils, dirts, skin and eye proteins that needs to be cleaned and cared for.

As a client, there is a two-fold reason to care for them properly.

Proper care increases retention.
Proper cleaning and care wards off possible infection.