170 Comments Recently, I had to remove lashes from several long-time lash clients. After three to four years of wearing extensions, they have developed sensitivities. This is such a difficult problem to solve. For most of us who have been lashing for a while, we see this happen from time to time. Results from the Professional Lash & Brow Artists’ Industry Survey, as seen on this infographic, show that more than 50 percent of us have had clients who experienced an allergic reaction in the past 12 months. That's a lot!
When it comes to allergies, there is really no way around it... We try glue alternatives, but for some clients there is no such thing as a completely allergy free glue. In these cases, we need an exit strategy for ourselves, and our clients. It's hard - we get emotionally involved with our clients, we listen when they share their life stories, we walk through their family celebrations, holidays, and other personal details of their lives. In a sense, they become the family members of our lash world.
When we can no longer offer the service they love so much, we - and they - will grasp at straws to keep their lashes on. I have tried removing lashes, giving them a break for a few weeks or months, and of course using a “sensitive” glue. I’ve tried many of these glues, and trust me here, if your client has had a bad reaction to glue, in some cases “sensitive” is not going to be the answer. Just recently, I did a little testing on these three ladies. I washed their lashes, applied lashes with sensitive glue, and dried and washed the lashes at the end as well. Needless to say, the result was the same. Swollen lids, itchy eyes, and much discomfort. We had to do a second lash removal on all three ladies. These women were so addicted to their lashes, two of them went to another lash artist without revealing their previous reactions. They thought I was using “bad” glue. To their surprise, they had the same reaction. So, it wasn’t “bad” glue after all. Unfortunately for them, they chose not to believe me when I explained they were no longer able to wear lashes.
Creating An Exit Strategy
I’m now creating my own exit strategy for these situations. I will be offering an "exit bag". It will include lash serum, lash wash and fluffy, and pretty strip lashes that they can wear on a daily basis. I will give them a lesson on how to apply the lashes at home. It's not exactly what your client wants, but it's a short-term solution while their own lashes grow out strong and healthy. We, as lash artists, can’t wait for the day our sensitive clients can again wear lashes. Have you experienced a client allergic reaction? Let me know how you handled it in the comments section below, and tell me what you think about my exit bag idea!
Maryann has an accomplished, 30+ year background in the beauty industry. As a cosmetologist she opened her first salon in ’83. She has specialized as an educator since 2006. Maryann knows what it takes to create successful salon businesses and is here to share her experience with you.
Hi Peggy,
This is so confusing! More than frustrating for you I’m sure. I really don’t have a specific answer for you, however, if you can find out from the lash studio in Florida what type glue they are using and get your NY lash tech to use it on you. It could be the NY lash Artist is using something not recommended for lashes. Trust me, there are things being used that are not always recommended for lashes.
Of course we want you to love your lashes and a glue that works for you is always the best. Let us know how things go!
Best of Luck in your lash quest!
Hello Lyndel,
So sorry you had to experience a reaction. Very uncomfortable to say the least.
You can do your research and always patch test before using any glue. I would try a clear lash glue first. There are many options on the market. A quick google search will show some options. GladLash offers lash glue that is vegan. Try and find one that will work for you.
Best of Luck!
Hi Marie,
You are correct in some instances. Do your research before purchasing or recommending a glue after a reaction. There are good glues for strip lashes that are better for sensitive eyes. GladLash has several options that can work well here.
A clear glue will have less ingredients that can cause irritation such as black dye.
I have been wearing for 3 years and suddenly had same reactions. I stay in florida for the winters and went to AMAZING LASH studio in Naples fl. Not one single reaction and I went back at least 5-10 times to get new or fills!!! It truly was amazing!!! What could be so different??? I returned back home in central ny and yup… as soon as I went to fill my eyes immediately broke out once again!!!! Why why why!!!!!
As a recent victim of eyelash extension allergic response – which strip lash glue is the best to use – for eyes proven to have an allergic response, but also maximising the length of the hold / adhesive quality of the glue?
THE EXIT PACKAGE FOR ALLERGY SUFFERERS – Won’t the adhesive for Strip Lashes have the same allergic reaction as the glue for the eyelash extensions? That is – do both products have Cyanoacrylate in them? (or the Carbon Black used to pigment the adhesive)? as this is what I have read – causes allergic reactions (when the glue touches the skin). I understand that nearly every lash glue on the market has Cyanoacrylates in them?
Hi,
The glue used for strip lashes has much different compounds and ingredients. Most people do not have a reaction to the strip lash glue. So strip lashes are a good alternative.
We all hope there will be a glue in the future for sensitive, so everyone can enjoy lash extensions.
Hi everyone !
This is probably the best website I found that is super helpful & informative ! I was getting my lashes done for a 1+ years now with out an issues but after taking a 6 month break and going to a new person I developed a pretty bad allergic reaction less than 24 hours. I got them removed about an hr within the of the flare up. After a day or two the reaction went away with consistently taking benedryl, ice cold packs and hydrocortisone cream. Thought it was the glue as well, so after a month I went back to my original lady but this time the reaction was really severe and I almost ended up in the ER. It has been 2 days and my swelling is barely subsiding, the aftermath is so no worth it!
After extensive research, anyone can develop this allergy out of the blue just like allergy season with pollen or being lactose later on in life. The main chemical that causes the reaction is cyanoacrylate which is found in all lash adhesive glue, no matter if it is sensitive or not. The reaction gets worse at every attempt b/c the body will remember and attack harder than ever.
I’m one of the very sad ones to not be able to get lashes, but after this second time it was torture removing them due to all the pus my lashes produced! If anyone develops a crust of pus, it will take longer for the removal solution to penetrate and remove the glue & lash.
Hope this info helps !
I pray one day a lash adhesive that is allergy free!
I am curious – with the Exit strategy replacing lash extensions with strip lashes – won’t the glue of the strip lashes cause the same allergic reaction?
My lash extension sensitivity started in one eye too… I wanted to attribute it to something else, but eventually it spread to both eyes. Sorry for your loss! I’m still mourning the loss of my lashes as well. :(
Hello Linn,
Let’s hope that with the popularity of lash extensions, someone will come up with a glue that is non irritating and those who have had allergic reactions can again wear lashes. Until then, try and keep your lashes healthy and maybe try a lash Lift and tint.
I must say great stories. I thought it was me alone but I am not alone. All stories read is me too. What a drag to know people like us with reaction can’t have their eyelashes done anymore. This was one of the best thing ever for women and do hope there will be some sort of new development in the future. There’s always new technology ideas coming out and I am one is waiting for it I hate doing false eyelashes it embarrass you a lot. I feel for all the stories shared. Linn
Would’ u recommend to use dexamethasone for lash extensions?its a eye drops version!is it safe for the eyes?
Could you tell what glues you found better?
Hello Sharie,
My best answer in your situation is, the irritation on one side is probably the side you sleep on. Your Lashes May be being crushed or laying on your lid. You could try a sleep mask to avoid crushing your lashes.
Let us know if this helps remedy your situation.
Thank you for the most information I have found anywhere online on this topic. I have one differing symptom though … My irritation seems to be only in one eye. It is on the inner eyelid of my left eye only. And it does not show up until at least the day after this service. About 18 to 24 hours later I will get red itchy scaling and minor swelling. But only on one my left eye. Ever seen a weird case like me before? How in the world can I be allergic on one side and not the other?
Hi Lusayla,
As much as I would like to tell you different, it does sound like you have sensitivities. Each and every time you have your lashes done, you are being exposed to the chemical that you are sensitive to. Give your lashes and skin a rest and before getting a full set with sensitive glue, have a patch test. Wait 78 hours to be sure you have no reaction. If after getting lashes again, you have another reaction, you’re going to have to stop. The reactions can get severe. So use caution, and take care of your lashes.
Hi Celine,
You should be able to do a lash lift. Your Lash Technician should screen you for sensitivities before any new service. The ingredients in the products are different, so this service may be a better option.
Hi Sarah,
Looks like you have gone the extra mile to find solutions for some of your clients. Once my client has a adverse reaction, we decide together to discontinue the service. Clients always come first. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Hi Kerri,
So sorry that you went through this experience. In any consultation with a new client, we should always review the things that can become challenges. Allergic reactions should be one of those things discussed. Unfortunately, many lash extension clients have experienced the same. We tend to want to think there was something done incorrectly or bad product was used.
Not to say there may be lash techs who aren’t as skilled or lack proper education, allergies do occur out of repeated exposure to the chemicals in the glue. Some clients can wear lashes for long periods of time with no issues. Others develop a reaction. At this time, there is no glue suitable once you have developed this sensitivity. Unfortunately, you will not be a good candidate for future lash extensions. Hopefully in the future there will be products for those who at this time not able to tolerate the glue.
Glad Lash has incredible strip lashes that can be a great option.
I have been getting lash extensions/fills for the past 6 months with no issues. During every single appointment, I am very comfortable and have had no problems with glue/any other lash related product in the past. Everything is sterile, good ventilation in the room, new glue/same brand each time, etc. Recently, however, (out of nowhere) I have developed some type of reaction. I am guessing it is the glue because my lash line in particular was becoming very itchy and red. During my most recent fill experience, my eye lids swelled just a little on the top only. My actual eyes were fine, just the lids were slightly swollen with some dry skin and itching on my lash line. It was a bit uncomfortable and I decided to get them removed. I have never had an issue like this before and find it hard to believe that I can randomly develop an allergic reaction. I did lots of research (because I am sad to be without the extensions and I’ve never been allergic to anything before) and am thinking of taking a break from the lashes. I still want to try them later on in the future. I found something called “blepharitis” and was thinking that I got it from a complication of the extensions. It has the same symptoms as what I had (and believed to be a reaction) and is caused my buildup of bacteria. Maybe I wasn’t cleaning them good enough or my lash artist used too much glue? Do you think it is worth risking it again in the future with sensitive glue, and being extra sure the adhesive is cured before I leave my appointment? Maybe earlier issue wasn’t a reaction, but an irritation as if some glue got in my eye or too much adhesive was used, etc.
I have developed an allergy sensitivity to eyelash extensions over the past 10 months (even with sensitive glue). My question is — can I do a lash lift instead?
Thanks for the very informative post, but I have to disagree. I have owned my own successful lash business for over 10 years and while it is true that some clients can never wear lashes again after developing a sensitivity, most actually can. I have found a few different sensitive formula options that over 50 percent of those clients have switched to with no more problems. While I never want to jeopardize the clients comfort and safety, many of them are very appreciative when you at least try something else before just turning them away. If I can keep them in fabulous lashes it is worth the extra effort to find a glue they can use safely!
Thank you for this! I unfortunately am one of those clients that religiously got extensions and fill ins for a year and a half. I took a break from them for a few months and went to a new place that was closer to me. I did not love the new place and that was the first time i had a reaction but only in one eye. I chalked it up to this place not being the nicest. I went back to my first place (I wish I never went anywhere else) but had more of reaction this time. It subsided within a day after icing and washing my face many times. I waited for all of the lashes from the first place to fall out and went back to my original place for a fresh new set and unfortunately had another reaction, even using sensitive glue. Is it time to just accept defeat? Also, do you think the second place i tried which was not the best triggered the reactions? And if it goes away on its own without removal is that an irritation or allergy? Thank you! Also- per my own exit strartegy, can you recommend a serum?
Hi Debbie,
I am sad to have to give you the news. You have developed a sensitivity to the glue. If you continue to keep getting fills, you are exposing yourself to the irritant. Unfortunately it will not get better, more than likely worse. My advice is to have them removed and find some pretty strip lashes to enhance your look.
Hi Dorothy,
We as lash artists are sad to hear about any discomfort our clients experience. Your lids may be sensitive from the removal or just seasonal allergies irritating them.
If you aren’t seeing a significant improvement in a day or two, you should see your physician.
Hi Cristal,
I totally understand. The same thing happens to me when I am lashing back to back. Make sure you have great ventilation and perhaps a fan to move the air around. I have found a mask with a charcoal filter works well when I just have to get through a busy day. Let us know what worked best for you.
I have had lashes for a few months, they started out great! Over the last few fills I have developed a definite irritation. It affects my top lid ( gets chaffed and vert itchy) as well as the bottom lid, inner corner of the eye and around the entire eye area. My question is could it actually be the eyelash glue remover that is used causing the problem and not the glue? I know I experience burning in my eyes when they apply the remover to change out lashes.
Hey there
So i recently took my eye lashes off. My left eye is still a bit puffy and irritated. Is there anything i should do?
I have a question, I am a brand new lash artist and every time I do a new set, the next day I have allergies, like a runny nose, sneezing. I love doing lashes and it really bums me out that I get some kind of allergic reaction. Any tips?
Hi Korin,
That’s a tough one. I know we work hard to do our very best for our clients and deserve to be compensated for our time. Client consent forms come in handy in this situation. You can spell out your policy on your consent form. 50% refund is acceptable, a voucher for a different service is also a good option. I always feel being flexible is the most professional. It’s up to you, but remember how clients feel when they leave your business. We always want them to feel important and respected.
Hi Morgan,
This is a tricky situation. As much as you love your lashes, they may not be loving you back. It sounds like you may be developing an allergy to the glue. The more exposure, the greater risk of a full blown reaction. This is very uncomfortable and avoidable. If your sensitivity persists, you should have them removed. This would be a good time to transition to a Lash Lift and Tint.
I wish you the best!
When a client develops an allergy and you have to remove the lashes do you refund them the price of the initial full set?
So I’ve been getting these reactions, but it goes away after a couple days.. what would happen if I just kept getting my lashes filled regardless?
I am a oral surgery assistant and had been getting lashes on for couple years. At some point my eyes started to itch, be red, and swell! Knowing that we use dexamethazone/decadron in Surgery to help reduce swelling after a procedure , I went straight to ER and took a dose to the arm get my swelling to go down. It worked beautifully. I was also given a 6 day course of pill form steroid to continue after the shot wore off.
Yes, the steroid works BUT steriods are not great to take long term by any means. They weaken your immune system, can cause weight gain, theycan also cause a type of swelling around your face, along with other side effects.
I just wanted to say that everyone should research and weigh the consequences of taking Rx medications just to have eyelashes.
Respectfully
What is the glue called?
I developed a lash allergy after years of wearing them. I was absolutely devastated!! I just recently heard that acupuncture can help. More specifically, NAET: Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Technique (NAET)
I just completed a series of three treatments of this procedure. I am going in 3/7/18 to test a few lashes and see if the sensitivity still exists. I will let you all know!! I just want to wear them again so bad!
What is the doctor’s name so that we can contact?
I have been getting extensions for a year now and suddenly, 2 days after my eyes swell and the skin around my lids gets dry and flakey, this lasts for a day or two and goes away, then they are fine, i am so sad because I love them, I was going to let them grow out and take a break for a few months hoping it does the trick!!
I developed an allergy and had my lashes removed. I then spoke with another lash artist who uses latex and formaldehyde free adhesive and I’ve been great ever since.
Thank you. I’m new to lashing and this is very helpful to know. I love your blog. Very informative.
Hi Maribeth,
I know how hard it can be to break the news to your client they are no longer a candidate for lash extensions. It’s a good time to transition to a nice set of strip lashes. Not the same of course but a safe solution.
Hi Tammy,
Our clients can get very disappointed when they learn they have had an allergic reaction to the adhesive. At this time there isn’t a safe alternative. Strip lashes will be a good option.
-Maryann
Hi Sam, thanks for sharing! You did the right thing in informing your customer she wasn’t the right candidate and hopefully she now knows you were helping her out all along.
Thank you so much for sharing! I have had this happen a few times now~
One client even went to someone else and had them do volume lashes after she had a reaction to my classic lashes. I told her I couldn’t keep doing it and she got upset and went somewhere else. She ended up in the emergency room and had to get an allergy shot…it was so bad. This helps immensely.
Thank- you everyone for your input. I’ve been lashing for many years and have tried a lot of the ideas you have shared. Using
Quality products cleaning lashes when glue has bonded,allergy eye drops,, etc. helps some clients plus Making sure you do not apply lash too closely to their skin. Alas , most clients who developed sensitivity need an exit plan and a lesson in strip lashes or magnetic lashes in a gift bag with or without a charge is the nicest for our extension allergic clients. I am all ears for any other remedies!
Yes, thank you for this article it was information that I have not experienced. I used to do lashes at a salon spa that I worked at. I loved doing them. Then I went out on my own & could not incorporate that service within my regular work day. I am thinking about doing them again down the road but now I see that I will have every client fill out a form that gives them the information on possible sensitiveity with long term use. I like for my clients to have as much info in the beginning of working with them. I find that it’s so much easier to have an exit if need be. Also when I have new. Clients that are inquisitive about negative results I can easily let them know about past experiences because it is not a negative thing. I’ve been in the industry 16yrs & I love every aspect of it. Thank you to all of the people who have shared their experiences as well, this was very informative.
Hi Lisa,
Applying an over the counter cortisone cream is not a good long term solution for clients. The cream will over time thin the eyelid. There is a steroid that is safe for the eyes that’s called Dexamethasone. I would recommend you talk over your protocol with an ophthalmologist to make sure that your practice is medically sound. We work with a top rated doctor (teaches at USC) in our area to come up with our protocol and at first, we thought of what you did, but he strongly stated that is not good for the client. That is when we came up with the Dexamethasone option with him. We have many clients who are allergic to the glue and we just refer them to a doctor for the prescription.
Please look into ti.
Unfortunately Tessa, there are no other safe alternatives at this time. Once you develop a reaction, they just seem to increase in severity. I am waiting for the day we can get a truly allergy free adhesive. There are plenty of articles on reactions and causes. You wont have to dig too deep to find them.
I’m not sure why your client has random reactions. Let me know if you get to the bottom of the mystery. Thanks for your comment.
Hi Lisa, glad you found a solution for yourself to keep your lashes. We as Salon Professionals climb a slippery slope on recommending any kind of medications. I like to have an Eye Dr. at hand to recommend any client to if they are having a reaction.
Better to be safe here. Thanks for your input.
I will address charging for Exit Bags in a upcoming post! Look for it to answer your question in more depth.
Thank you so much for your insight about an exit bag. I have done lashes for 7 years and have had clients that have reactions to adhesives. I think I will use this idea but I think I will put in magnetic lashes instead of strip lashes because if they are allergic to adhesive they will most likely be allergic to the glue in the strip lashes. Thank you again.
Thanks for sharing your story Vivianne!
Thanks for sharing your story Robin!
I have been doing lashes for six years now and also have had lashes my self for over 5 years, I recently in the last six months have developed an allergy to the glue as well.
Even though I recommend it is the best to remove the lashes and stop getting extensions it is very hard for me as well and I have tried every glue out there. What I have found for people like me who are just stubborn and don’t want to stop getting extensions is putting benedryl cream on the lids after I get them done and for three days after. It helps a lot and by the third day the allergy is gone.
It’s not a “fix” per say but it is a remedy that has worked for me:)
I love the exit bag idea! Great article!
Hi
Thank you so much for your blog
I am an lash artist for Vida Emanuel European Day spa in Beverly Hills Ça.
And I too, have developed severe allergies to eyelash extensions. I’m so sad about it. As far as my clients thank god i haven’t yet have the mis fortune to to say “you can’t wear them any more.” For myself I’ve treating my eyelids with a small amount of cortisone cream and over the counter prescription medicine to fight off scratching and dry eyes. It’s been months and I’m so tired of wearing lash bands."
Thank you for reading my comments
All my best,
This could not have come at a better time. The timing is a little freaky actually! I just had a girl with a reaction & had used “sensitive” adhesive. Even did a patch test before hand applying several extensions to both eyes. She had no reaction from the test. I wonder if those that are sensitive could handle a lesser amount of extensions and be fine. I feel like I need to get to the bottom of this. Are there any other sites or articles out there to research?
Love the “exit” idea! Thank you!
My experience is they are not a good candidate for lash extensions and be honest. Some people just can’t wear them.
This is a nice idea, but so if a client ever develops an allergic reaction they can never ever wear lashes?? Or should they wait a few months?
Love this! “Lash exit bag” is a great idea!
I’m a brand new lash artist so this information is so helpful. I’m sure it depends on the client but will they ever be able to wear lash extensions again? I like your exit bag idea too!
I love the idea of the exit bag!
I have had clients develop allergic reactions after several applications of lash extensions. Most of them have been fine with the use of my sensitive glue. A couple of them have removed them at home even though I tell my clients to contact me immediately if they have any irritations so I may remove them properly. These types are the first to tell someone that lash extensions ruined their lashes, and we as professionals know its because they removed them at home.
I agree it is sad when a client has to stop wearing lash extensions but I do offer other services in the salon and they can continue coming in.
Thanks for sharing!
Hello,
I had the same issue with longtime client it was mysterious because the sensitivity was under her skin pain around her eye cheekbone area. Nothing was swollen, itchy or burning just like a sinus pain. happened once before in the summer time and then she was ok did lashes aging for a year then happened second time. Do you think the organic glue I’ve seen would work or she will not be able to use extensions again?
Awesome article and idea for the exit bags! Will you charge for them?
I have been getting lash extensions for years and developed a sensitivity to the glue as well.
Desperate to keep my lashes I found a way to get over the sensitivity …
The night before my appointment I take a Claritin allergy pill, and immediately before and after my lashes are applied my lash artist applies a cortisone cream (purchased over the counted at Walgreens). The results are no itching and no redness ! It works!
You may have to reapply the cream once or twice after your appointment but by the second day I usually don’t need to, this method works and has allowed me to keep my lashes.
Try it with your clients ?
Thank you for sharing!
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A smooth, flawless wax can leave your skin looking and feeling incredible, but proper aftercare is essential to maintain those results and keep your skin healthy. Freshly waxed skin is more sensitive and needs extra attention to avoid irritation, redness, or ingrown hairs.
Arrielle
June 02, 2019
I’m so happy I’m not alone. I’ve been wearing lash extensions for 4 years straight and developed an allergy about 2 weeks ago. My lash line was very itchy and o developed a crust at the base of each individual lash which I’m guessing was puss. I went to my lash tech and had them removed because she had just cleaned all the crust from around them 2 days before and removed some of them because I normally wear a thick volume set. She told me they looked infected so I went to urgent care and was given medicine for infection, however the doctor said it sounded more like an allergic reaction. He told me to give it a week and put my extensions back on but if the same symptoms came right back then I was allergic. So guess what I did ? I went back in 6 days and got them put right back on and within 5 hours they were itching and swollen and crusty. I’m so hurt :( the only thing saving me is the fact that I know how to apply strips but nothing beats waking up to beautiful lashes every morning.