Can Fake Lashes And Extensions Damage Your Natural Lashes? We Asked An Aesthetician

Fake lashes and lash extensions might seem like no-brainers for long-lasting lashes that simply stun, but as it turns out, they can also do more harm than good. If you've ever wondered if fake lashes can actually harm your natural lashes or eyes, you've come to the right place. Glam had an exclusive chat with aesthetician Liz Kennedy, the founder of the skincare brand Beauty Magnet, who told us all about the sneaky truth behind falsies.

"False lashes can absolutely damage your natural lashes if installed incorrectly or in a salon that isn't up to sanitation standards," Kennedy explained to Glam. "Just like Botox and filler can be placed incorrectly on the face and migrate, the same can be applied to lash installations." This might seem hard to believe, as many people never encounter a serious issue with fake lashes, but they should simply count themselves lucky. 

To better understand fake lashes, though, we must first go back to the beginning to see what they really are. "False eyelashes and lash extensions can be made of many different materials, from synthetic materials to even natural human hair," Kennedy told us, adding that they're typically synthetic, silk, or mink (solo or in combination). If you have sensitive lashes, Kennedy recommends silk "over any other material." Choosing silk can help you not only look your best but also feel it. Then, you'll want to make sure you inspect your salon thoroughly and always take care of your falsies post-installation.

Fake lashes can unfortunately cause a number of side effects and injuries, including "eye irritation or infection," "allergic reactions," styes around the eyelids, and, in worst-case scenarios, "losing your natural eyelashes" (via WebMD). However, the good news is that so many people wear fake lashes and lash extensions with no issues at all, and our aesthetician, Liz Kennedy, has tips to help you secure your best set of lashes damage-free. 

Her best tip? Treat lashes like any other serious appointment, including Botox. "Just like Botox and filler, go to a technician that has lashes (or a portfolio) of lashes that you admire," Kennedy exclusively told Glam. Your job isn't done there, though. Before you settle on a salon, make sure you "ask for references and always make sure the salon is certified." 

Starting in your inner circle can be a wise choice, as your friends aren't too likely to lead you astray from the salons they've had great encounters with. Then, don't be afraid to check the salon's website for its certifications. Many beauty industry licenses, such as those for estheticians and cosmetologists, can also be found on state government websites, so don't be afraid to look up your lash tech before heading into the salon. Finally, you can always ask your lash tech for their credentials. (Your health is more important than potentially sounding abrasive. If they take it the wrong way, that's on them — not you.)

So, you've done your homework and gone through with your appointment, resulting in glamorous lashes that make you feel like royalty. Amazing! But what comes next? "Cleaning your lashes every evening will not only keep your lashes clean, it will also help extend the life of the lashes for a longer period," Liz Kennedy exclusively told Glam. This also saves you money in the long run since it means fewer trips to the salon. You'll just want to invest in a couple of high-quality cleaning products; after all, these products are going to be used near your ultra-sensitive eyes.

"You always want to make sure the lash cleaner is oil-free since oil is a slip agent and can remove the glue over time," Kennedy added. "Lashify and Velour both make great lash cleaners." Velour's Lash Clean makeup remover has a 5-star rating from 80 reviews on the brand's website and only costs $23, while Lashify's Melt Away Remover is slightly more affordable at $21 and boasts a 5-star rating from more than 2,200 reviews. To use these cleansers, simply soak a cotton pad in them and gently rub your eyes, lashes, and lash lines to remove your trusty mascara and generally get them squeaky clean. When done nightly, you can help make sure your lashes don't get crusty, grow bacteria, and more.