Today Show: Are Fake Eyelashes Safe?
If you’ve ever seen a woman with gorgeous eyes opened up by some beautiful eyelashes, there is a chance they are fake. Fake eyelashes are the “it” accessory today and women everywhere are using them, along with celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Nicki Minaj. Recently, however, the safety of these has come into question.
Kristin Chenoweth appeared on the Letterman show earlier this year sporting shades, which you might find curious, considering the fact that it’s a late night show. Apparently, she was experiencing swelling and sneezing, which she attributed to the formaldehyde in the glue. Formaldehyde, in case that doesn’t ring any bells, is meant for such uses as embalming, and women are using beauty products with this chemical in it. It appears that, while the eyelashes themselves pose no threat, the adhesives used to attach them do.
They may look good, but fake eyelashes may pose a threat to your eyes.
Fake Eyelashes Causing Infections
Kristin Chenoweth is not alone, as consumer reports suggest. Not only are the adhesives for the lashes a potential irritant, so are the solvents used to remove them. Dr. Orly Avitzur, an associate medical editor for Consumer Reports, said that the risks are both cosmetic and medical. They have come across infection and irritation of the eyes and even ulceration.
It is a vicious cycle, said Avitzur. False eyelashes cause damage to our real lashes, which then lead women to apply even more fake eyelashes to get the look back, therefore perpetuating the negative effects incurred by the lashes.
Eyelash Industry Defends Themselves
Despite the Consumer Report findings, an industry representative says fake eyelashes are approved by the FDA – and they are. However, the FDA does remind users that eyelids are delicate, and allergic reactions in that area can be much worse than in other areas of the body. They advise users to check ingredients before using these products.
When it comes down to it though, women will do anything to feel more confident in themselves – risk or no risk.
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