Seasonal Allergies and Eyelash Extensions

    Spring is here, and with it comes beautiful, blooming flowers, warmer temperatures, and, unfortunately, for some of us, seasonal allergies. For us who suffer from allergies, red, itchy, and watery eyes can be a struggle during this time of year. While these symptoms can be frustrating on their own, lash extensions can sometimes make it worse. Let’s discuss seasonal allergies and how it affects your lash extensions, as well as share some helpful tips and tricks to minimize allergy symptoms while keeping your lash extensions looking fabulous.

Understanding Seasonal Allergies and Lash Extensions

Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, occur when our immune system reacts to environmental allergens like pollen, grass, and dust. This reaction causes inflammation in our bodies, which can lead to symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, and itchy, watery eyes.

For those who wear lash extensions, your allergies may have a chance of becoming worse. The lash extensions are longer and fuller and have an easier time trapping allergens such as pollen, grass and dust. In addition to possibly making your allergies worse, watery and itchy eyes, due to rubbing, can cause your extensions to fall out prematurely. Rubbing your eyes to alleviate the itchiness can also potentially cause eye infections.

     Now that we’ve gone over how seasonal allergies can affect your lashes, we can go over some tips and tricks to manage your seasonal allergies so you can keep your fabulous lash extensions.

Tips and Tricks to Manage Seasonal Allergies with Lash Extensions

Consulting your lash artist.

First things first, you should always have a discussion with your lash artist about your seasonal allergies. Consult with your lash technician and they can help you choose the right type of extensions and adhesive that are less likely to cause irritation or make allergy symptoms worse.
Ask about sensitive glue. If possible, the lash artist might have a hypoallergenic lash adhesive. This is designed for sensitive eyes and to minimize irritation.

Keeping your lashes clean.

Like we mentioned before, lash extensions make it easy for allergens to get trapped in your lashes. Regularly cleaning your lash extensions with a lash cleanser will remove all the allergens from your lashes. Not only will this help alleviate eye irritation but also prolong the life of your extensions.

Avoid eye makeup and mascara.

You should always avoid mascara if you have lash extensions on, but especially during allergy season, it’s best to avoid eye makeup and mascara, as they can trap allergens. If you must wear makeup, opt for hypoallergenic products and be sure to remove them thoroughly at the end of the day.

Take allergy medicine.

Oral antihistamines can help alleviate your allergies, including itchy and watery eyes. Talk to your healthcare provider about the most appropriate allergy medicine for your own situation.

Avoid rubbing your eyes.

Rubbing your eyes can not only cause your lash extensions to fall out, but it can also allow allergens and bacteria to go into your eyes causing infections.

     Seasonal allergies is bothersome for everyone who has them, but they can be worse for those who have lash extensions. By following these tips and tricks, you can minimize allergy symptoms while maintaining your lash extensions. Sometimes, even with taking every precaution, it is impossible to keep lash extensions through the allergy season. You can always take a break from lashes and come back when your seasonal allergies are gone! And always remember to consult with your lash artist and healthcare provider for personalized advice on seasonal allergies.