A chemical burn from eyelash extensions occurs when the adhesive used during application irritates or damages the eye. This can result from the glue coming into direct contact with the eye or from exposure to irritating fumes released by the adhesive, which often contains cyanoacrylate. Such burns can cause significant discomfort and potentially affect vision, making prompt and appropriate action important. Recognizing early signs and knowing how to respond can help reduce harm.
Immediate First Aid Steps
Begin by thoroughly rinsing the affected eye with a gentle, steady stream of cool, clean water for at least 15 minutes. This helps flush out chemical residue or irritants from the eye’s surface. It is important to avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen irritation and potentially cause further damage.
Should you be wearing contact lenses, remove them during the rinsing process. After rinsing, a cool compress can be applied to the closed eyelid to help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. Over-the-counter artificial tears or lubricating eye drops, particularly preservative-free options, can provide a soothing effect by mimicking natural tears.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
While immediate first aid can provide initial relief, certain symptoms or circumstances warrant prompt professional medical attention. If you experience severe pain, persistent burning or stinging, or any changes in your vision, such as blurriness or light sensitivity, consult an eye doctor immediately. Continued redness, swelling around the eye, excessive tearing, or unusual discharge also indicate the need for professional evaluation.
Seeking medical advice is also advisable if symptoms persist beyond a few days or worsen despite initial self-care measures. Even if the burn seems minor, a healthcare professional can properly assess the extent of the damage and recommend specific eye drops, ointments, or other treatments to aid healing and prevent complications.
Managing Recovery and Healing
The healing time for a chemical eye burn from eyelash extensions can vary, with mild cases often resolving within a few days. More severe injuries, however, might require several weeks for complete recovery. During this period, it is important to avoid rubbing or touching the affected area to prevent further irritation or infection.
Following any prescribed medications or specific instructions from a healthcare provider is important for proper healing. This may include using prescribed eye drops or ointments to alleviate inflammation and discomfort. To promote comfort, continue using a cold compress and artificial tears as needed. Refraining from wearing eye makeup or additional eyelash extensions until the eye has fully healed is also recommended to avoid re-irritation and support the recovery process.