Itchy eyelash extensions aren’t the norm – in fact, they’re far from it! Your eyelashes shouldn’t be itchy or be uncomfortable after application and if they are, it’s usually an indication that your lash artist used low-quality products. The good news? Itchy eyelash extensions can be solved by finding a lash artist who uses high-quality lash extension products and healthier application techniques. Read on to learn more about what causes itchy eyelash extensions and how to solve for them.

Read More: 3 Common Lash Extension Reactions & How To Avoid Them

What Causes Itchy Eyelash Extensions?

There are a few common reasons why your eyelash extensions may itch:

Problem #1: Your Lash Extensions Have a Pointy, Sharp Base

Most eyelash extensions on the market have a sharp, needle-like base that can sit too close to the delicate skin of the eyelid. The shape of these extensions can cause them to poke and scratch the skin of the eyelid, especially during sleep. If the itching becomes too significant, it can become almost impossible to resist rubbing or scratching your eyes and eyelid, which causes your eyelid to swell even more. This swelling pushes the skin of your eyelid even closer to the sharp base of the extension, creating a vicious cycle of discomfort.

Solution:

Not every eyelash extension is built the same way. To prevent this problem, NovaLash’s luxury eyelash extensions have smooth, round bases that don’t scratch or piece the eyelid skin. Made with a high-tech polymer that has a comfortable, soft, and natural texture, getting NovaLash extensions applied greatly reduces your chances of experiencing itchiness and irritation after your lash appointment

Problem #2: Poor Quality Adhesive

When itching occurs, most consumers, beauty professionals, and even health care professionals immediately attribute the itchiness to an allergic reaction from the lash extension adhesive. While most itching and irritation is caused by the extensions themselves, some cases of itchiness could be attributed to the lash adhesive.

Unless your lash artist exclusively uses NovaLash adhesive (the only lash adhesive on the market to undergo independent research & testing), you are wearing industrial-grade, black super glue that has not passed an EPA formaldehyde test. These adhesives have also not undergone any toxicity testing or a test to confirm they won’t cause cellular mutations. Despite the lack of testing, these adhesives are marketed to unknowing beauty professionals as “medical grade” or “surgical grade” on the brands’ websites and social media.

Solution:

Unfortunately, the FDA does not require lash extension brands to require formaldehyde, toxicity, or DNA-mutation testing. However, that doesn’t mean you have to give up lash extensions altogether. NovaLash was built on the foundations of health and science, and our adhesives have undergone rigorous laboratory testing in order to pass all three tests. Formaldehyde-free and engineered specifically for use on the human body, choosing NovaLash means you can trust your eyelash extensions aren’t damaging the health of your natural lashes and eyes.

Long story short – if your lash artist cannot provide you with written laboratory tests showing their adhesive has passed an EPA formaldehyde test, toxicity test, and DNA-mutation test, find a professional who can.

Related: Why Hygiene Is Important For Healthy Eyelash Extensions

Problem #3: Improper Eyelash Extension Application

Some lash artists have taken to applying extensions to only one layer of the natural lashes. To make it look like all your eyelashes have been extended, lash artists using this method will apply too many fibers to each individual natural eyelash. This can put undue pressure on your natural lashes and cause discomfort. In addition to being uncomfortable, this type of eyelash extension application tends to look pretty patchy after only a week or two, requiring you to constantly get touch-ups.

Solution:

NovaLash’s physician-developed training program teaches lash professionals how to safely apply extensions to the natural lash without causing damage or discomfort. Instead of piling tons of volume extensions onto just one row of your natural lashes, NovaLash artists extend at least 90% of your natural eyelashes. The result? Beautiful, full lashes that offer the most comfortable and long-lasting results.

How To Get Itch-free, Damage-free Eyelash Extensions

You only get one pair of eyes, and choosing a lash artist who uses high-quality products and has world-class training will ensure your eyes and natural lashes remain healthy. If you’re ready to protect your lashes and get the amazing lashes of your dreams, follow these steps:

1. Start by searching for a NovaLash-certified eyelash extension professional in your area.
2. Before having any extensions applied, check the treatment room for evidence of non-NovaLash adhesives and extensions. You’d be surprised at how many lash artists don’t use NovaLash because they’re either poorly informed or they opt for cheaper alternatives!
3. If you’re not sure what adhesive your lash artist is using, ask them – and ask for the tests that demonstrate their adhesive is safe to use. And don’t stop at just the adhesive. Be sure to ask these 6 must-know questions before any extensions are applied.

As you start your journey to healthier lash extensions, check out our blog for tips on how to prepare for your eyelash extension appointment, how to maintain good eyelash health, and more!