Long story, short
- Lash extensions are declining in popularity due to their high cost, time commitment, and growing evidence that they can cause eye infections, eyelid swelling, lash loss, and clogged oil glands.
- Oil buildup and debris around the lash line can lead to lash mite overgrowth, and extending wear time beyond recommendations increases the risk of bacterial complications and lash damage.
- Avoid lash serums containing Prostaglandins, which can cause periorbital volume loss, a sunken eye appearance, and irreversible darkening of the iris and surrounding skin.
- Prostaglandin-free serums formulated with plant-based actives like Redensyl™ offer a safer, lower-maintenance route to longer, thicker-looking natural lashes without salon visits.
Not so long ago, eyelash extensions were the highlight of a beauty enthusiast’s routine and the epitome of ‘high maintenance to be low maintenance’. They were also an opportunity to lie back and relax, totally screen-free, for a few hours (the application process is lengthy, and requires eyes to be closed at all times).
No special occasion or pre-holiday prep was without an infill appointment and despite the expense, lash extensions would often rank highly in the hierarchy of professional treatments, taking priority over manicures and hair salon trips.
More recently, however, there has been a huge decline in popularity of eyelash extensions, with some devout advocates deciding to go cold turkey. But why? And what’s everyone doing to make their eyelashes look fuller and longer instead?
Why are people giving up eyelash extensions?
With the high price of in-salon treatments and the damage that extensions can cause to natural lashes, combined with advances in at-home alternatives like lash serums, lash extensions are slowly but steadily becoming obsolete. Plus, the cost of living crisis and inflation have driven a further shift towards people seeking more cost-effective, at-home treatments that deliver high quality, professional-grade results.
What are the health risks of eyelash extensions?
There are also health concerns associated with lash extensions, with reports of eye infections and other complications. In some cases, people are experiencing swelling and drooping of the eyelids, likely due to allergic reactions or bacterial buildup. Eyelashes serve as a crucial barrier against pathogens and environmental debris like dust — and extensions can disrupt this natural defence mechanism.
There’s also the matter of unsanitary application methods and improper cleaning and aftercare. Oil buildup and debris around the lash line can lead to lash mites, which are normal but can multiply and cause irritation if cleanliness is neglected. Extending the wear time beyond what is recommended can also lead to problems, including clogged oil glands and lash loss.
What are the best alternatives to eyelash extensions?
Ultimately, the move away from eyelash extensions has been facilitated by the development of better alternatives, namely DIY magnetic and cluster lashes as well as lash growth serums that nourish the natural lash for a longer, thicker look.
However, it’s important to choose a serum that doesn’t contain Prostaglandins, which can cause periorbital volume loss leading to a sunken and hollow look as well as excessive melanin production in the iris and the skin surrounding the eye, causing irreversible darkening. Luckily, there are plenty of other ingredients that do an amazing job; our Lash Fuel XL uses a blend of plant-based ingredients that help condition for thicker-looking lashes, including star ingredient Redensyl™ — the same exceptional active ingredient we use in our bestselling anti-hair-loss spray.
Unlike extensions, which require regular maintenance and can pose health risks, lash growth serums offer a safer and more convenient way to achieve longer, fuller lashes that are all your own. And that’s ultimately what we all want, right?
