Common Allergens You Can Find in Lash Lift Systems
A lash lift should result in beautiful and long-lasting curled lashes. Not red, swollen, irritated, or itchy eyes! But for some people, what should have been a quick, convenient beauty treatment can go wrong. Lash lift systems may contain allergens that can cause adverse reactions to certain individuals.
If you're thinking about getting a lash lift or are a lash technician who wants to avoid any potential allergic reactions, it's important to know about the common allergens you can find in lash lift systems.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a colorless and strong-smelling gas used as a preservative in many beauty products, including lash lift systems. It helps prevent bacterial growth and prolong the shelf life of the product. But formaldehyde can also be a common allergen that can cause skin irritation, redness, and itching.
Thioglycolic Acid
Thioglycolic acid is another commonly used ingredient in lash lift systems. It’s responsible for breaking down the disulfide bonds in the hair, which allows lash techs to mold and shape it during the treatment. But thioglycolic acid can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially if left on the skin for too long.
Fragrances
Fragrances are often added to beauty products to give them a pleasant scent. But they’re also one of the most common allergens found in cosmetics, including lash lift systems. Fragrances can cause skin irritation, redness, and itching for those who are sensitive or allergic to them.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is commonly used in lash lift systems as a bleaching agent. It helps lighten the color of the lashes and can also provide added volume. But like other chemicals, it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially if not properly diluted or left on for too long.
Parabens
Parabens are preservatives commonly found in beauty products, including lash lift systems. They help prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi, which can prolong the shelf life of the product. But parabens can also be a potential allergen for some people, causing skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Parabens Substitutes
Some lash lift systems may advertise as being “paraben-free,” but instead use alternative preservatives that can also be potential allergens. These substitutes include phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol, and methylisothiazolinone.
Yikes! Those are some scary sounding ingredients, right? But don't worry; there are ways to prevent these common allergens you can find in lash lift systems from causing issues.
Lash technicians can help by performing a patch test before a lash lift to check for any allergies. This involves applying a small amount of the lash lift solution behind the ear or on the inside of the elbow and monitoring for any reactions. If a client has a reaction during the patch test, it's best to avoid using that specific lash lift system and explore alternative options.
The client has a role to play, too! Anyone who has a history of allergies or sensitivities should inform their lash technician before the treatment. They should also disclose any current medications being taken; some can increase the risk of adverse reactions.
By taking these measures, lash technicians and clients can work together to prevent allergic reactions from occurring. This means clients can get the beautiful, long-lasting lashes they want—without having to suffer through red, swollen, or itchy eyes. Beauty doesn't have to be painful!