When we think of DIY, we typically think of home-based projects – from upcycling a vintage dresser to creating a homemade rattan headboard. During the pandemic we’ve had an abundance of time, leading many to turn to DIY projects to keep themselves sane.
But as well as DIY home projects becoming increasingly popular, so too have DIY beauty treatments. With the rise of TikTok tutorials, we have witnessed a spike in risky DIY trends – from self-piercings and tattoos to eyelash extensions. Perhaps this should come as no surprise given that many of these services have been inaccessible as a result of consecutive lockdowns, leading people to fill the void by attempting such enhancements themselves.
However, while we might be able to understand the logic behind these DIY attempts, this doesn’t make them any less dangerous.
Why should I avoid DIY eyelash extensions?
When it comes to DIY eyelash extensions, in particular, there are a number of concerns. Since estheticians have been unable to perform the treatment during lockdowns, consumers have turned to online tutorials in a desperate attempt to get their semi-permanent lash fix.
But lash technicians warn that lash extension application is not to be treated as a trend, nor is it a skill that can be acquired from watching a two-minute how-to video. Lash artists go through extensive training in order to become qualified in this field; hours upon hours of work goes into learning how to apply eyelash extensions.
Here are some of the main reasons you should avoid the DIY eyelash extension trend and leave it to the professionals:
- Risk of infection/irritation
DIY lashes can cause anything from irritation to severe infection and hair loss. Lash technicians are trained to apply extensions in a way that protects your natural lash from damage and ensures that your eye will be as irritation-free as possible. They often utilise extremely sharp isolation tweezers which allow for a precise,
safe application, as well as using eye patches and shields to help protect the client’s eyes from chemical burn.
It’s highly unlikely that somebody applying extensions from home will have the necessary professional equipment and tools to carry out the treatment safely, meaning you may cause irreparable damage to both your eyelashes and eye health.
- Lacking the necessary skills
As previously mentioned, anybody attempting DIY eyelash extensions by following a video tutorial online will not have the skills necessary to complete this treatment safely.
No matter how easy it may look, applying lash extensions is both a time-consuming and rigorous process which requires great attention to detail and a high level of skill. Even those who have been qualified as lash technicians for years would find it nearly impossible to apply their own extensions properly.
When applying extensions to your own eyes, you will likely need to rely on a mirror to guide your alignment – this is an immediate cause for concern since your eyes will need to be open during the application. Even having your eyes open just a small amount during this treatment can cause harsh chemical burns or an allergic reaction.
This is not to mention that you simply don’t have the relevant training in eyelash extension application, making it increasingly likely that you will be left with a clumpy mess. Lash technicians follow a very specific method when applying lashes to ensure an even and long-lasting result; this is something you’ll struggle to achieve by yourself.
- Traction alopecia
Last but certainly not least, DIY lash extensions may result in what is known as traction alopecia. This is a form of hair loss caused by constant tension on the hairs – in this case, your eyelashes. By applying extensions improperly, you could easily cause severe damage to your hair follicle, which can lead hair production to cease completely.
Sadly, this can leave you with extremely sparse lashes. As tempting as it might be to try this treatment at home if you’re currently unable to visit your lash technician, the cons far outweigh the pros.
Do the sensible thing and wait until you can visit your local salon!
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