For thousands of years women have considered long, dark eyelashes a sign of beauty. Currently, we are witnessing the rise of eyelash extensions which are bonded to the existing lashes. According to federal agencies however, these are not without problems. Apparently, formaldehyde-based bonding agents are causing an increase in allergic, infectious and toxic reactions.
A recent study from Georgia Tech suggests that the increased lash length also causes more dust and air to hit the eye’s surface aggravating dry eye symptoms. Also, eyelash loss has been frequently described. Permanent eyeliner has been associated with tear film instability and ocular surface abnormalities, which have been reported years after their application. Risks include inflammation of the eyelid margins, dry eyes and corneal erosions.
So be careful. Everything, it seems, has its price!