Getting eyelash extensions can simplify your beauty routine, but one common mistake could leave your eyes red, dry and irritated.

An Australian lash specialist has warned clients not to wear contact lenses during appointments after sharing a TikTok showing her reaction to discovering a client had kept hers in throughout a two-hour lash session.

The video, posted by Aura Beauty, has racked up more than 11 million views, drawing attention to a simple precaution contact lens wearers may overlook before getting eyelash extensions.

So, should you remove your contact lenses before a lash appointment?

Lash Specialist Warns Contact Lens Wearers

@aurabeauty222_

The worst words to hear after a full 2 hour lash set 😭😭 ⚠️ CONTACT LENS GIRLS, THIS ONE’S FOR YOU ⚠️ Please don’t wear your contact lenses during your lash appointment! 👀 Your eyes need to stay closed for the entire treatment, and having contacts in can cause dryness, irritation and discomfort - especially with your eyes closed for an extended period. If you wear contacts, please bring your glasses and pop your lenses out before your appointment 🤍 And no, before anyone’s worried - she is fine and the redness went away after a few hours but I did warn her not to do that again😭 Also no, she was not a paying client! #lashextensions #lashes #lashfails #clientfails #contactslenses

♬ original sound - SPAM LIKE = BLOCK

In the viral TikTok, the lash specialist reacts after realising her client had worn contact lenses throughout the full two-hour appointment. 'The worst words to hear after a full 2 hour lash set,' she wrote.

She urged contact lens wearers to remove their lenses before the treatment because their eyes need to remain closed for an extended period. She further wrote, 'Your eyes need to stay closed for the entire treatment, and having contacts in can cause dryness, irritation and discomfort — especially with your eyes closed for an extended period.'

The specialist advised clients to bring their glasses and remove their lenses before the appointment. She later reassured viewers that the client was fine and that the redness disappeared after a few hours.

Can You Wear Contact Lenses During Lash Extensions?

Keeping your eyes closed for a prolonged period while wearing contact lenses can contribute to dryness and discomfort. A lash appointment also involves adhesives and other products being used near the eyes.

Wearing contact lenses may add to the discomfort if the eyes become irritated during or after the treatment. If something gets into the eye while wearing a lens, the lens might keep it touching the eye for a longer time, which could make the discomfort feel worse.

The viral clip does not establish that contact lenses caused the client's redness, and redness following lash extensions can have different causes. However, removing contact lenses before a lash treatment is a straightforward precaution for people who wear them.

People who usually wear contact lenses can bring their glasses and lens case to the appointment and only put their contacts back in once they feel comfortable afterwards.

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What Are the Risks of Lash Extensions?

Eyelash extensions are can be applied without problems, but the process can sometimes lead to issues around the eyes. The glue used to attach the extensions might cause skin or eye irritation and could make some people have an allergic reaction.

Some people may feel their eyes get red, itchy, swollen or burning, and they might feel a sandy or uncomfortable sensation after getting lash extensions. In some cases, the extensions or the glue used can also cause dry eyes or redness and irritation of the eyelids.

More serious issues can involve damage to the eye's surface or an infection. If you experience strong pain, a lot of swelling, any discharge or changes in your vision after getting lash extensions, you should see a doctor right away.

How to Protect Your Eyes During a Lash Appointment

Taking some simple steps can help lower the chances of getting irritated during a lash extension treatment. If you use contact lenses, you should take them out before the procedure and wear glasses instead.

It's also important to pick a lash technician who is properly trained and follows good hygiene practices, using products that are safe for use near the eyes.

Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes while you're having the treatment or right after it. If your eyes get sore, let them rest and don't wear contact lenses until they feel better again.

If you notice lasting redness, swelling, pain, any kind of discharge or changes in your vision, you should reach out to an eye care professional. These symptoms might have different causes, so having them checked can help determine if you need any treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is it safe to wear contact lenses during eyelash extensions?
    It is recommended to remove contact lenses before the procedure to avoid irritation and potential damage.
  • What should I do if I experience discomfort after getting eyelash extensions?
    If you experience discomfort, redness, or swelling, consult an eye care professional for advice.
  • Why should contact lenses be removed before a lash extension treatment?
    Contact lenses should be removed to prevent them from absorbing substances from lash glue and to reduce the risk of irritation.
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