
Pregnancy is an uncertain and crucial phase in a woman's life. While some mothers-to-be glow, others feel self-conscious about their appearance. Eyelash extensions are a popular way to feel confident and beautiful during pregnancy. However, there are some concerns about the safety of eyelash extensions during pregnancy. So, are eyelash extensions safe during pregnancy?
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Safety | Generally considered safe, but some doctors advise against it |
Allergic reactions | Rare, but more likely if the client has a history of allergies or is a first-time lash client |
Chemical ingredients | Formaldehyde in eyelash glue may be harmful to the baby; well-ventilated rooms and sensitive glues can mitigate risk |
Application process | Lying on back for extended periods may be uncomfortable and risky for pregnant women, especially after 20 weeks |
What You'll Learn
Lying on your back for too long during application
Lying on your back for too long during eyelash extension application
Lying on your back for extended periods of time during eyelash extension application can be uncomfortable and risky for pregnant women, especially after the 20-week mark. The application process can take up to 2-3 hours, which is much too long for an expecting mother to lie on her back. This can be dangerous and cause discomfort.
To address this issue, lash technicians can suggest the following alternatives:
- Using pre-fanned lashes: This method reduces the application time by almost half, making it more comfortable for pregnant clients.
- Splitting appointments: Instead of a single long appointment, the process can be divided into shorter sessions.
- Breaks during the procedure: Taking small breaks every few minutes allows the client to stretch, relax, and walk around before resuming the application.
- Lying on the side: Pregnant women can lie on their side with a pillow under their leg or behind their spine for added comfort. This position can also be alternated halfway through the procedure.
- Inclined position: Using an inclined chair or bed can help alleviate the discomfort of lying flat on the back.
- Cushions: Props and cushions can be used to support the client's body and make them feel more comfortable.
It is important to prioritize the safety and comfort of pregnant clients, and lash technicians should be well-informed about these alternatives to ensure a positive experience for both parties.
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Potential sensitivity to chemical products
It is important to note that research on the effects of lash glue on pregnancy is yet to be carried out. Due to the increased sensitivity during pregnancy, you are more likely to experience irritation with eyelash glue.
The biggest risk for pregnant women comes from eyelash glue. Most eyelash glues use formaldehyde in their ingredient list. Formaldehyde is a toxic gas that is used in many beauty products, but also in embalming liquid formulations. There isn't much data available on how formaldehyde affects an unborn baby, so your pregnant client may want to be safe and skip their appointment.
If you are a first-time mother and a first-time lash client, you might need to reconsider getting eyelash extensions. If you do end up contracting a glue allergy, it will be much harder to treat, and medication options are limited during pregnancy.
If you are an expecting mother who has had lash extensions before without issues, you are likely to be okay to continue doing them without the risk of a glue allergy.
To reduce the risk of irritation or allergic reactions, lash artists should use sensitive glues like Lily glue or Advanced glue. It is also important to always run a patch test and use fresh lash glues, throwing away any glue that has passed its shelf life.
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Formaldehyde in eyelash glue
Eyelash extensions are one of the most non-invasive cosmetic procedures, provided you consult a professional artist who uses quality products. The extensions are applied to your natural lashes and not directly to your skin. However, the glue used to apply eyelash extensions can contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Formaldehyde is dangerous to the body and can cause allergic reactions, but it must be present in certain amounts to be harmful. The human body naturally has small amounts of formaldehyde, and it is also essential for producing certain amino acids.
Some lash artists may use glue with formaldehyde as an ingredient, and if so, you will notice a lot of fumes during your treatment. This calls for quitting the treatment as formaldehyde may be harmful to the baby. Lash artists, once informed, must ensure that they use a more gentle, formaldehyde-free glue for their pregnant clients. Formaldehyde-free adhesives are harder to find but are available on the market.
If you are pregnant and considering eyelash extensions, it is important to consult with a professional lash technician about the potential dangers and work together to find safe solutions. A patch test is always recommended, especially for pregnant women, to test for any allergic reactions to the adhesive. If you are sensitive to smells, you may want to inquire about the type of glue used and ensure that the room is well-ventilated to minimize any strong scents.
It is worth noting that research is yet to be carried out on the effects of lash glue on pregnancy. If you are unsure, it may be best to forego lash appointments until after giving birth.
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Allergic reactions
During pregnancy, women can become more sensitive to chemicals and products, and this increased sensitivity may result in irritation with eyelash glue. It's important to note that most eyelash glues contain formaldehyde, a toxic gas that may be harmful to the baby. While there isn't much data available on how formaldehyde affects an unborn baby, it's better to be safe than sorry.
If you're considering eyelash extensions while pregnant, it's recommended to consult with a professional lash technician and your doctor beforehand. A patch test can be performed to check for any allergic reactions, but keep in mind that treating allergies during pregnancy can be more complicated due to restrictions on medication.
To minimise the risk of allergic reactions, lash technicians should use sensitive glues that are formaldehyde-free and ensure proper ventilation in the room. It's also important to keep anti-allergy gel nearby and give pregnant clients frequent breaks during the appointment.
While eyelash extensions can be a great way for pregnant women to feel more confident and beautiful, it's crucial to prioritise safety and be aware of any potential risks.
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Hormonal imbalance affecting hair growth and loss
Eyelash extensions are one of the most non-invasive cosmetic procedures, provided they are applied by a professional artist using quality products. However, there are still some potential risks to consider when it comes to eyelash extensions during pregnancy. One of the main concerns is the glue used in the process, which may contain formaldehyde, a chemical that may be harmful to the baby. While lash extensions do not come into direct contact with the skin, the fumes emitted by the adhesive can be inhaled. Therefore, it is recommended to use sensitive glues that are free from formaldehyde and to ensure the treatment room is well-ventilated.
Another factor to consider is the position of the client during the procedure. The application of lash extensions requires the client to lie down on their back for an extended period, which may be uncomfortable and risky for pregnant women, especially after the 20-week mark. To mitigate this, lash technicians can suggest alternatives such as using pre-fanned lashes, elevating the bed, or allowing the client to lie on their side with a pillow for support.
Additionally, hormonal imbalances during pregnancy can lead to variations in hair growth and loss. Pregnancy is associated with increased levels of estrogen, which slows down the natural cycle of hair follicle shedding, resulting in thicker hair. However, some women may experience hair thinning and shedding due to stress, shock, or a hormonal imbalance. This condition, known as telogen effluvium, affects a small number of pregnant women and typically resolves within six months without treatment.
To summarise, while eyelash extensions can be a safe option for pregnant women when applied by a trained professional, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with the adhesives and the client's position during the procedure. Additionally, hormonal imbalances during pregnancy can lead to variations in hair growth and loss, with some women experiencing thicker hair and others facing hair thinning or shedding.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can have a significant impact on hair growth and loss. Due to the increase in estrogen levels, many women experience thicker and more lustrous hair during pregnancy. Estrogen slows down the natural cycle of hair follicle shedding, resulting in less hair loss and giving the appearance of fuller hair. This effect typically lasts until after childbirth when hormone levels return to normal.
However, it is important to note that not all women will experience thicker hair during pregnancy. Some may notice hair growth in areas where they typically don't have hair, such as the face, chest, abdomen, and arms. Additionally, a small number of pregnant women may experience hair thinning and shedding due to stress, shock, or a hormonal imbalance. This condition is known as telogen effluvium and can affect up to 50% of women. It is characterised by excessive hair shedding, typically occurring one to five months following pregnancy.
Telogen effluvium during pregnancy is usually temporary and resolves within three to six months without treatment. It is not serious enough to cause bald spots or permanent hair loss. However, if hair loss continues or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is recommended to consult a doctor to rule out other possible causes, such as thyroid issues or iron deficiency anemia.
To manage hair loss during pregnancy, healthcare providers recommend maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Additionally, avoiding tight hairstyles and harsh hair treatments can help reduce stress on the hair. It is also suggested to use volumizing hair products and focus on conditioning the ends of the hair rather than the scalp. While most cases of hair loss during pregnancy are temporary, consulting a doctor can help address any underlying causes and provide guidance on managing hair loss.
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Frequently asked questions
Doctors do not recommend getting eyelash extensions during pregnancy. However, many pregnant women have reported getting eyelash extensions without any issues.
The biggest risk for pregnant women is the eyelash glue. Most eyelash glues contain formaldehyde, a toxic gas that can be harmful to the baby. There is limited data available on how formaldehyde affects an unborn baby.
It is recommended to use a sensitive glue that does not contain formaldehyde. A patch test can also be done to check for any allergic reactions.
The procedure typically takes around 2 to 3 hours for a full set application.
Yes, lash growth serums or lash lifts are alternatives that pregnant women can consider to enhance their lashes without the same risks as eyelash extensions.