It's payday, and you've invested in a complete set of lash extensions, and then the worst happens – red eyes afterwards! Whether it's from the bottom half of your eye being red after eyelash extensions or you have bloodshot eyes after lash extensions, we know how scary and uncomfortable it can be.
But don't worry – there are some simple ways to treat red eyes after eyelash extensions, so today, we'll talk about what causes those pesky red eyes and what you can do to get them back to their regular colour. Firstly let's find out why we get bloodshot eyes even if we haven't had false eyelash extensions.
What Are Bloodshot Eyes?
Eyes appear bloodshot when the sclera, the white component of the eye, turns red; we also know this as red eye. The red colour is due to the dilatation or swelling of the vessels in the sclera. This blood vessel dilatation begins in response to any irritant, eye infection or accidental damage.
It's the body's way of producing more white blood cells to fight infection. The eyes usually water and can have infected puss. The entire experience is unpleasant and can be painful in the worst-case scenario.
What Causes Red Eyes After Eyelash Extensions?
A few things could give you red eyes after lash extensions. One common cause is that eyelashes can irritate the skin around your eyes and make them sensitive once applied. Allergic reactions to the glue used to hold eyelash extensions can also cause red eyes.
You know if you have an allergic reaction, if you get eyelid swelling, itching, weeping, and bloodshot eyes, all these are symptoms of an allergic reaction. If it's not an allergic reaction, the problem could be due to a chemical burn.
You may have had a chemical burn if the bottom half of your eye is red after eyelash extensions. During an application, the glue doesn't always stick to the lash. Instead, it can sometimes drip down onto the skin and cause a chemical burn. Read more about signs of bad lash extensions.
Seven Ingredients that might upset your eyes:
- Cyanoacrylates– are an adhesive used to bond lashes when applying eyelash extensions.
- Formaldehyde – a preservative and disinfectant that can cause red eyes if not diluted properly.
- Latex – is an allergen found in lash glue which may also cause redness and puffiness around the eyes after a procedure.
- Benzoic acid – is another type of allergen that can irritate your skin, causing redness and inflammation.
- Cellulose gum – a thickening agent used in some adhesives that can cause allergic reactions or irritation when it comes into direct contact with your skin.
- Geraniol - an essential oil derived from rose geraniums or roses, used in many eyelash adhesives and can cause skin irritation if present in concentrations too high.
- Propylene glycol is a liquid compound found in some lash glue that could irritate the eyes and lead to redness.
The price of beauty is high, and this comment does not just refer to the money you spend but your health. After reading this, you might think that lash extensions ruin your natural lashes, but this is not the case if your extensions are applied properly and you look after them.
Read our ultimate guide on how to clean eyelash extensions by clicking the link.
How Can I Treat My Red Eyes After Eyelash Extensions?
Now that we know some potential causes of red eyes, it's time to talk about how you can treat them. A professional can remove your eyelash extensions, and you can take a break from makeup, so your skin has time to heal.
Take special care not to use harsh chemicals or abrasive products near your eye area, as this could further irritate your skin and worsen the redness. When recovering from an infection, drink plenty of water and get plenty of rest.
Over-the-counter eye drops are a great option if you want something more immediate. They can help reduce swelling, irritation and redness in the eyes. But remember to check with your doctor first if you're using any other medications or suffer from any conditions that eye drops might aggravate.
Other Ways To Treat Bloodshot Eyes
Cold Compress: A cold compress is a great way to reduce swelling and redness in the eyes. Just fill a clean cloth with ice, wrap it around a soft towel, and place it over your eyebrow area for up to 15 minutes.
Antihistamine: An oral antihistamine can help relieve red eyes caused by allergies. Ask your doctor or pharmacist which antihistamine will work best for you – they may suggest something stronger than an OTC medication.
Warm Compress: If you want to relax the red veins in your eyes, try using a warm compress instead of a cold one.
Fill a clean cloth with warm water, wrap it around a soft towel and apply it to your eye area. Do this a few times a day for up to 15 minutes.
Witch Hazel: Witch hazel is known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Soak a cotton ball in witch hazel, then place it over the area around your eyes to reduce inflammation and redness.
Tea Bags: Tea bags have also been known to help reduce redness in the eyes.
Place one tea bag into warm water, and let it steep for 2-3 minutes before taking it out and placing it over your eye area or even just on your eyelids for 10-15 minutes.
Cucumber: Cucumbers contain antioxidants that can help reduce swelling, redness and irritation of the eyes. Place a slice of cucumber over your eye area for 15 minutes.
Ice Cold Spoons: An old-school remedy that still works - placing ice-cold metal spoons on the bottom half of your eyes can help reduce redness and swelling. Simply place two spoons in the freezer until they are chilly, then press them onto each eye for up to 10 minutes.
Other Eye Infections
Your eyes are very delicate and can become infected quickly. Here are some common eye infections and how to treat them.
Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis, known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the thin layer that covers your eyeball and inner eyelids. A virus, bacteria or an allergic reaction can cause it. Symptoms include redness, a gritty feeling in the eyes and excessive tearing. To treat it at home, use warm compresses several times daily, avoid wearing contact lenses and keep your hands clean.
Keratitis: Keratitis is an eye infection that causes swelling, tenderness and reddening around the cornea (the clear front part of your eye). Viruses typically cause it, and contact lenses can also cause it. Symptoms include pain, redness, blurry vision and sensitivity to light. You may need oral or topical antibiotics, and eye drops to treat it.
Endophthalmitis: Endophthalmitis is an infection of the layer that covers your eyeball and inner eyelids. It can be caused by bacteria or a virus, as well as certain surgeries or injuries to the eye. Symptoms include extreme redness in one eye, pain and blurred vision. Treatment usually involves intravenous antibiotics administered at a hospital or surgical centre.
Cellulitis: Cellulitis is infected skin around the eyelid, typically caused by bacteria entering through a cut or wound. Symptoms include redness, swelling and tenderness around the eye. To treat it at home, use a warm compress several times daily and take antibiotics prescribed by your doctor.
Stye: A stye is an eyelid infection caused by bacteria, a blocked gland, or a pore. It can cause redness, swelling and pain around the affected area. To treat it at home, you can use a warm compress several times daily to reduce inflammation and pain.
Blepharitis: Blepharitis is generally inflammation of the eyelids caused by bacteria or allergies, leading to redness, itching and flaking skin on the eyelids. Treatment includes topical medications such as antibiotic ointment and cleaning the eyelids several times daily with a warm cloth.
Uveitis: Uveitis is an infection or inflammation of the middle layer of your eye that bacteria, viruses or other conditions can cause. Symptoms include redness, pain, blurred vision and sensitivity to light. Treatment includes anti-inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids as well as antibiotics if necessary.
No matter what condition you have, it's always important to seek professional medical advice from an optometrist or ophthalmologist if you have an eye infection or are having any trouble with your eyes after lash extensions. Delaying treatment could lead to more severe complications affecting your vision permanently.
Magnetic Lashes
If you're taking a break from false eyelash extensions but don't want to go without your fake lashes, magnetic lashes could be your perfect solution. They are gentle on the eyes and easy to apply, making them an excellent choice for those wanting to keep up their lash look without compromising eye health. Magnetic lashes attach with tiny magnets, so no glue is needed.
They come in different styles and lengths, allowing you to achieve whatever look you want. They can last up to 7-14 days with proper care and maintenance. Be sure to read the instructions carefully when applying magnetic lashes, as the improper application can cause redness and discomfort around your eyes.
Final Thoughts
Having red or bloodshot eyes after eyelash extensions can be worrying - but know that it doesn't necessarily mean you have an eye infection. Often, the redness is due to irritation from the glue or the extensions themselves, and if that's the case, it should go away on its own in a few days with some extra care for your eyes.
However, suppose you experience any symptoms of an eye infection, such as pain, redness, blurred vision or sensitivity to light. In that case, you should seek professional medical advice from an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Don't delay treatment - it could lead to more serious complications that can affect your vision permanently.
If you're taking a break from fake eyelashes, it’s worth reading up on how to look after your eyelash extensions so that you know what to do when you go back to them.
Overall, it's essential to be mindful of how your eyes feel after eyelash extensions - if something doesn't feel right, don't hesitate to talk to a doctor—taking good care of your eyes and seeking professional help when necessary will keep them healthy for years to come.
