A woman in her 40’s with a history of using eyelash extensions/fibers (Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes +; Younique) presented with redness, irritation, and pain in her right eye. An examination revealed several fibers (approximately 1 mm long) overlying the conjunctiva, with at least 6 in the subconjunctival space.
The patient’s eyes were too tender for removal of the subconjunctival foreign bodies at slit lamp. These fibers are described as being made from nylon and enriched with several chemicals (propylene glycol, squallane, tocopheryl).1
She was prescribed a course of topical chloramphenicol, 0.5%, and dexamethasone, 0.1%, 4 times daily. Three days later she was still symptomatic, and the fibers were subsequently removed in the operating room under a local anesthetic ( See Figure). Nylon is inert; however, the chemicals presumably caused the localized reaction. The patient’s symptoms resolved following the removal of the fibers while continuing the course of topical chloramphenicol and dexamethasone for 2 weeks.
While eyelash extensions have become a commonplace cosmetic procedure – there are still short and long-term risks to consider. If you have, or are considering, eyelash extensions, make sure to;
- Always make sure that your aesthetician is certified and follows hygienic practices
- Keep your lashes clean
- Avoid getting extensions that are too long or too thick
- Do not hesitate to contact your optometrist if you are experiencing eye discomfort!
Article Information – Shared from JAMO Ophthalmology
Corresponding Author: Mohammad Samir Dowlut, MBCHB, FRCOphth, Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Hospital, 274, Grosvenor Rd, Belfast BT12 6BA, United Kingdom (samirdowlut@doctors.org.uk).
Conflict of Interest Disclosures: All authors have completed and submitted the ICMJE Form for Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest and none were reported. References1. Younique. 3D Fiber Lashes+. https://www.youniqueproducts.com/story/fiberlashesplus. Accessed August 27, 2017
OPTICAL SOLUTIONS Your Trusted Eye Care Provider 