What is an allergy? What should we do if we get an allergy from eyelash glue?
An allergy is a hypersensitivity of the immune system to something people have contact with. Symptoms of an allergy to glue can include red swollen eyes as well as itching. These symptoms persist until the glue wears off and can worsen over time. Most often the client makes an allergic reaction to the eyelash glue. The chemical ingredient cyanoacrylate is a strong allergen and it is desirable for artists to work in the safest manner possible to protect themselves and their clients. Allergic reaction to other glue ingredients and materials needed for the procedure is also possible.
What to do if we get an allergy from eyelash glue?
We are not authorized medical persons and we are not allowed to prescribe treatments! What we would do for ourselves is to immediately take an anti-allergy pill, contact our lash removal artist immediately and book an appointment with our treating doctor for a consultation. The artist should take into account that applying a gel/paste to remove the lashes will trigger the chemical process of the cyanoacrylate and the allergy will be reinforced, so make sure your client has already taken the necessary remedies to quell the allergy from the glue!
Unfortunately, none of us is insured against the allergens we take in every day!
Allergies that we exhibit from eyelash glue can be congenital or acquired, that is:
Congenital allergy – being born with this type of allergy and having an allergic reaction the very first time you apply eyelash extensions using cyanoacrylate glue
Acquired allergy – in this case, you can put on eyelashes for a long time, even years, and still get an allergic reaction from the eyelash glue. Again, we recommend taking the lashes off!
Our experience has taught us that often in women with acquired allergy, after a rest of a month – two, the acquired allergy disappears and they can put lashes again.
*We urge clients who have experienced this type of allergy to consult with an eyelash professional if they decide to take this risk again and require a trial before lash application.
*We urge artists to counsel their clients and educate them on the risks of the procedure, being aware of the risk of allergy and if one is present, to take the client for emergency removal regardless of their busy schedule!
Avoid placing lashes on clients who have had reactions to the adhesive without signed informed consent!
You may also have clients with a reaction to gel patches, in which case use a piece of medical tape to cover the lower lashes.
EYEBLED. HOW TO AVOID IRRITATION?
All adhesives emit harmful fumes that cause flaking or burning. To avoid this the client must have their eyes tightly closed.
– Ask the client to relax and unwind. Explain the procedure fully and the importance of keeping the eyes fully closed. Ask them to take caffeinated drinks; coffee, tea or energy drinks before the procedure.
If you offer a drink to the client before the treatment let it be herbal tea or water.
– When isolating the client’s lower lashes be careful not to stick the tape too high. Check that the eyelid is fully closed if not, reapply the patches/tape. If they don’t fit the curve of the eye perfectly you can cut and shape them to fit snugly. Take your time to apply the pauche/tix properly so you don’t have further complications. If properly placed the client will enjoy the relaxing procedure.