If you're a beauty enthusiast, you know that stunning, long eyelashes are desirable. However, it can be a nightmare when things go wrong and red, swollen bumps appear. Many lash lovers fear getting styes, which can be a significant roadblock to trying eyelash extensions.
Don't worry, we've got your back! This article is here to provide you with the truth about eyelash extensions and styes. We'll answer your questions about whether your extensions caused the stye, and most importantly, how you can deal with it without damaging your lovely lashes. We have all the essential details you need to know to keep your lashes beautiful and healthy. So, sit back and read on.
Let's get started!
What is a stye?
A stye is a painful red bump that can appear on the edge of your eyelid, similar to an acne pimple. It happens when a tiny oil gland in your eyelid skin or eyelash follicle gets blocked, and bacteria infect the area. The medical term for it is hordeolum.
It is common for a stye to develop on one eyelid, although it can occur on both. Typically, a stye lasts one to two weeks and clears up on its own. However, if it persists, it may be necessary to see an eye doctor to have it drained and receive antibiotics to treat the infection.
There are two primary forms of styes, each with slightly different locations. The more common one is External Hordeolum, which manifests as a reddish, pimple-like bump on the outer edge of your eyelid where your eyelashes grow. The infection typically originates in the follicle of an eyelash.
The other type is internal hormoneolum, which develops deeper within your eyelid and is on the inner side closer to your eyeball. It may initially feel like a gritty sensation in your eye before progressing into a visible, reddish bump under the eyelid. The infection usually starts within the oil gland itself.
Do Eyelash Extensions Cause Styes?
Let's talk about an important issue: can lash extensions cause styes?
The answer is complex and depends on various factors, as with most things in life. Yes by some factors, but in itself no. Lash extensions are not harmful, but incorrect application and poor aftercare can increase the likelihood of developing a stye. Here are some factors that could lead to eyelash extensions causing a stye:
Unsanitary Tools and Techniques: A qualified lash technician will prioritize hygiene throughout the application process. Unsterilized tools or failure to thoroughly cleanse the application area might introduce bacteria that become stuck near the lash follicle, resulting in a stye.
Isolation: Each extension should be carefully separated from your natural lashes while being applied. When extensions clump together, they form a breeding ground for bacteria and can obstruct the oil glands at the base of your lashes, increasing the risk of stye.
Allergic reactions: While uncommon, these reactions can produce inflammation, redness, and irritation near the lash line, creating an ideal environment for a stye to develop.
Poor Hygiene: Since retention lasts for weeks, eyelash extensions require specific cleaning routines to prevent bacteria buildup. Without proper cleaning, leftover makeup, oils, and dead skin cells can accumulate around the lash line, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. This bacteria can then infect the oil glands within your eyelid, leading to a stye.
Spotting a Stye with Eyelash Extensions
Eyelash extensions can enhance your appearance but may hinder the detection of a developing stye. Nevertheless, knowing what to look for, you can quickly identify these indicators and take the necessary steps to treat them. The symptoms of both internal and external hormoneolum or styes are similar, and detecting the signs of a stye early on is crucial. Here are some key symptoms of spotting a stye with eyelash extensions:
- Inflammation and redness: The infected area will become visibly inflamed and red.
- Soreness and tenderness: Styes can be painful, particularly when touched or blinked.
- Watering and itching: Your eye may become watery and itchy due to the infection's irritation.
- Light sensitivity: Styes can sometimes cause your eyes to be more light-sensitive.
- Crusty discharge: As the stye heals, it may produce a crusty discharge.
- Pus: As the stye matures, a white or yellow pus-filled bump may form at the tip of the stye.
What to Do if You Get a Stye with Eyelash Extensions?
If you wake up with a stye near your beautiful eyelash extensions, there's no need to panic. It's understandable to feel worried, but it's essential to remain calm and handle the situation carefully. Check out this simple guide that will walk you through what to do if you get a stye with eyelash extensions:
- Trying to pop the stye can be harmful and lead to further infection. Instead, use warm, damp compresses on the affected area for 10-15 minutes daily to reduce inflammation and draw out pus.
- Keep up your regular cleaning routine using a gentle, oil-free cleanser specifically formulated for those with eyelash extensions.
- If the stye doesn't improve or gets worse after a few days, don't hesitate to seek advice from an ophthalmologist for a professional evaluation and treatment, which may include antibiotic eye drops or ointment.
Should I Remove My Eyelash Extensions if I Have a Stye?
Discovering a stye can be disheartening, especially if you love the look and convenience of eyelash extensions. But the question arises: can you keep your extensions during a stye, or is removal necessary? Here's a breakdown of the possibilities to help you make an informed decision.
In some cases, keeping your extensions with a stye might be feasible, but with caution:
- Mild Styes & Professional Guidance: If you have a mild stye that has yet to spread significantly, seeking advice from a qualified lash technician can be helpful. A lash technician can assess whether cleaning the extensions is safe without compromising hygiene around the stye. This way, you can safely maintain your lash extensions.
- Maintaining Rigorous Hygiene: Absolute dedication to hygiene becomes paramount. This includes more frequent cleansing with your oil-free cleanser, ensuring no makeup or debris gets trapped under the extensions.
You can also refrain from using any eye makeup, as it can exacerbate the stye by blocking the glands around your eyelashes and causing more inflammation and discomfort. I know it can be hard to give up your makeup routine, but giving your eyes a break from it until the stye has healed completely is the best thing you can do for them.
However, in some situations, extension removal becomes the safer option:
- Severe or Spreading Styes: If you are experiencing a stye even after taking preventive measures, it is advisable to contact or visit your lash technician. They can assess the situation and suggest the best course of action, which may involve removing your lash extensions to prevent further discomfort.
- Styes Not Responding to Treatment: See an ophthalmologist if a stye doesn't improve with home care or after removing eyelash extensions. They may remove the stye for better treatment. If the cause is the extensions, find alternatives that work better for you.
Remember: If you have a stye, and home remedies are ineffective, it is best to seek advice from your ophthalmologist. This is especially important if you have eyelash extensions. Your ophthalmologist can provide personalized advice on how to cure the stye, depending on its severity.
How to Prevent Styes When Wearing Eyelash Extensions
Now that we have identified the potential risk factors, it's time to equip you with a defense strategy. By prioritizing hygiene and following an aftercare routine, you can significantly reduce the chances of acquiring a stye while enjoying your beautiful lashes. Here's how to prevent styes when wearing eyelash extensions:
Choosing a Reputable Lash Technician
When choosing a lash technician, it's important to prioritize safety and hygiene. Look for someone who is certified and trained in application and hygiene. Ensure their workspace is clean and they use new, disposable tools for each customer. Ask about the quality of the products they use and choose someone who uses reputable brands with high-quality adhesives that are less likely to cause eye irritation.
Maintaining Lash Hygiene: A Daily Routine
After applying your gorgeous extensions, a proper aftercare routine is crucial to keep styes at bay. Invest in a gentle, oil-free cleanser specifically formulated for extensions. Avoid oil-based products and excessive rubbing. Use water-based products for your facial routine, and avoid touching or rubbing your eyes with unwashed hands. Don't pull or pluck your extensions, as it can damage them and potentially cause an infection. Limit the amount of eye makeup you use, especially near the lash line. Opt for water-based eyeliner formulas whenever possible and remove all makeup thoroughly before bed using a gentle, oil-free cleanser designed for extensions.
These simple steps allow you to enjoy your stunning lashes longer and keep you from acquiring a stye with eyelash extensions.
Conclusion
So, can you have both beautiful lashes and healthy eyes? Absolutely! It is possible to have both luscious lashes and healthy eyes simultaneously. This can be achieved by prioritizing hygiene, selecting a lash technician, and following a gentle aftercare routine at home. By doing so, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing styes.
Remember, early detection is crucial! If you detect signs of a stye, avoid using harsh treatments and contact your lash technician or ophthalmologist for professional guidance. With some knowledge and care, you can confidently enjoy the convenience of eyelash extensions without compromising your eye health.
Are you looking for a cleanser to help maintain stunning, stye-free lashes? Look no further than Forabeli Lash Shampoo. This gentle yet powerful cleanser will keep your lashes healthy and vibrant for longer. Experience the difference for yourself and never worry about lash mishaps again.
Bonus tip: Schedule regular lash fills with your lash technician to maintain the beauty of lash extensions. Now go forth and flaunt those fabulous lashes for a beautiful life!