Unclean Eyelash Extensions May Cause ‘Lash Lice’ Infestation, Doctors Warn

Illustration - Shutterstock

As incidents of “lash lice” increase in number, numerous doctors are warning fans of eyelash extensions to up the ante when it comes to their cleaning regimens.

Near-microscopic organisms known in the medical field as “demodex mites,” but better known by lay folk as “lash lice,” can survive and thrive on eyelash follicles if left to their own devices. The unwanted visitors may be almost microscopic, and failing to clean eyelash extensions can be the culprit.

“Generally, the idea when you have eyelash extensions is that people are afraid to kind of touch them or wash them because they’re afraid the eyelash will fall out,” Dr. Sairah Malik explained to ABC 7.

Illustration - Shutterstock | Aliaksandr Barouski

Neglecting to clean eyelash extensions, owing to a fear that they will fall out more quickly, can lead to an increase in bacteria and a heightened risk of infection. Symptoms of infection may include redness, itching, and inflammation around the eyes.

“Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate,” Dr. Gary Keoleian from the Michigan Eye Institute told ABC 12. “When it accumulates, that’s when you start getting into irritation. Demodex can infest, bacteria can take root, then you have irritation and you’re picking at your lashes and it’s a whole cycle.”

The micro-organisms known as “lash lice” burrow to the base of the eyelash follicles and feed off dead skin and organic debris. Infection becomes increasingly likely when the lashes are not cleaned, as this fertile breeding ground gives the organisms the opportunity to overpopulate.

Perhaps the worst news of all? Lash lice, much like head lice, are extremely contagious.

Cleaning is crucial. As lash lice can be transferred from person to person, and eye to eye, via products like mascara and makeup brushes, it is just as important to extend the cleaning process to makeup applicators as to the lashes themselves.

“We recommend tea tree based cleanser [an antibacterial agent],” Dr. Malik advised. “Any cleanser that has a diluted form of tea tree, and it is a good idea to use on a daily basis.”

Illustration - Shutterstock | Kuzina Natali

For the sake of scientific accuracy, Dr. Craig See, an ophthalmologist at Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute, was keen to point out the difference between lice and mites. Despite the popularity of the term “lash lice,” he said, referring to demodex as lice is technically incorrect.

Lice are parasites that suck blood, See explained to USA Today; mites (in this case demodex), however, are microscopic organisms that live on all mammals and eat dead skin cells.

The presence of microscopic mites on the skin is not usually an issue, but a buildup due to poor hygiene practices—such as neglecting to clean eyelash extensions—could cause trouble.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, there are three different materials used in the manufacture of eyelash extensions: synthetic, silk, and mink. All types are typically applied by a trained technician using tweezers and skin-friendly, semi-permanent glue.

The extensions usually last between three and four weeks. However, according to the New York Post, doctors recommend taking periodic breaks from using lash extensions in between applications in order to maintain optimal eyelid health.