Tales From TikTok: Ladies, Wash Your Eyelash Extensions To Avoid This Crusty Condition

The latest Tales From TikTok zeros in on a user named @It’sShoLove who highlighted the importance of washing your eyelash extensions regularly to prevent blepharitis, a common and sometimes chronic condition that can cause inflammation to the eyelids, specifically affecting the edges where eyelashes grow.

On March 10, 2022, @ItsShoLove posted a video highlighting the risks associated with improper care of eyelash extensions. While it remains uncertain if the woman in the video was @ItsShoLove herself, the unsettling footage showed an individual having thick yellow crusts removed from both the top and bottom of her eyelash extensions by an eye doctor using tweezers.

@ItsShoLove shockingly revealed that the crusts had developed in less than two weeks due to the patient’s failure to wash their eyelids and lashes daily. However, one user in the comments claimed that they developed the condition “hours” after applying their eyelash extensions.

Crusting of the eyelashes is a frequently observed symptom of blepharitis, as noted by the Mayo Clinic. It can impact anyone regardless of age, race, and whether you use eyelash extensions. This condition manifests in two main forms: anterior, which affects the outer edge of the eyelid and is often linked to bacteria or dandruff, and posterior, which affects the inner edge where oil glands may dysfunction. Additional symptoms include redness, swelling of the eyelids, itching, and a gritty sensation.

Blepharitis can be controlled but not always cured , requiring ongoing care to alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence, according to Medical News Today. Treatment for blepharitis typically involves a combination of daily eyelid hygiene and, in some cases, medications. At home, doctors recommend using a warm washcloth to soften and loosen debris, crusts and oils around the eyelashes. This can be achieved by applying the washcloth over the impacted area for five-10 minutes. An eyelid scrub can also be used to remove bacteria by gently cleansing the area with commercial lid scrubs or diluted baby shampoo.

In cases of significant inflammation, antibiotics, such as ointments or steroid eye drops, may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is present to reduce eyelid colonization and alleviate redness and irritation. Managing underlying conditions like dandruff, rosacea, or allergies is crucial for effective blepharitis management. Electrochemical lid margin debridement (BlephEx) offers another option, using a specialized device to remove mites, bacteria and biofilm from the eyelids while opening clogged meibomian glands.

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