Doctors Warn Women Using Eyelash Extensions Can Be A Breeding Ground For Lice

Eyelash extensions are a huge beauty trend worldwide especially to women, but doctors are now warning about a major health threat that could be lurking in between those lush lashes.

So, if you’re a fan of eyelash extensions or you wear them often, you may want to think about the last time you cleaned them.

Eye doctors said they’re seeing more and more patients being diagnosed with eyelash lice, known by its medical term, Demodex.

Some people have tried to stay away from cleaning them at all but that leads to an increase in bacteria, which harbors more bacteria and leads to infections.


Dr. David Samimi, an oculoplastic surgeon with Dignity Health, explained that the lice can be transferred to anyone, but are more likely to infest people who have lash extensions.

“This is because foreign bodies around the eye like eyelash extensions have a reputation of being very hard to clean,” said Dr. Samimi.

Luckily, this version of lice is reportedly easy to treat and the average treatment for eyelash lice takes about six weeks.

Symptoms include itchiness, redness and inflammation, and what may be, even more, alarming the lice.

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“Typically patients will clean with tea tree oil, to remove debris in the eyelids. We can also do deep cleanings in the office,” added Dr. Samimi.

Tea tree oil is an essential treatment for hair, skin, and nails and can be antibacterial.

To avoid the unnerving infestations of lash lice, health experts urge eyelash customers to stick with daily cleaning rituals and to give your eyelids a break from lash extensions every now and then.

Source: ABC7 News