Accidental ingestion of eyelash glue, while alarming, typically involves a small amount of product and presents a low risk of systemic poisoning. The primary concern is not the chemical toxicity once dried, but the immediate physical hazards and the potential for irritation within the mouth and digestive tract. Understanding the glue’s composition is key to assessing the true danger.
Toxicity Assessment of Eyelash Adhesives
The danger level posed by an ingested eyelash adhesive is directly related to whether it is a temporary strip lash glue or a professional extension adhesive. Strip lash glues generally contain ingredients like acrylic polymers and latex, which are less chemically toxic upon ingestion in small quantities. These adhesives are designed for non-permanent contact, making their base formulation milder.
Professional eyelash extension glues pose a greater immediate physical risk due to their main component, cyanoacrylate. When liquid cyanoacrylate contacts the moisture in the mouth, it quickly solidifies, or polymerizes, into a hard, inert plastic mass. This rapid hardening prevents the glue from being absorbed into the body, minimizing chemical toxicity.
The main danger from extension glues is mechanical, as the rapidly solidifying material can bond tissues together, such as the lips or the tongue to the teeth. Since these glues solidify quickly upon contact with saliva, only a small amount typically makes it past the mouth. The hardened substance that is swallowed is largely non-toxic and is likely to pass through the digestive system without breaking down.
Ingredient Profiles and Associated Risks
Eyelash glues fall into two distinct chemical categories, each presenting different ingestion hazards. Professional-grade adhesives used for semi-permanent extensions are predominantly cyanoacrylate-based. While the solidified glue is chemically inert, the immediate reaction in the mouth can cause irritation and physical bonding of tissues.
A secondary concern with cyanoacrylate glues is the potential for trace amounts of formaldehyde, which is sometimes used in the manufacturing process as a stabilizer. Formaldehyde is a known irritant and allergen, but the amount ingested is typically very low, and the rapid polymerization minimizes further exposure. The primary risk is the immediate physical adherence and irritation caused by the quick-setting nature of the glue.
Strip lash adhesives are typically water-based formulas that rely on acrylic polymers or natural rubber latex. The greatest risk associated with ingesting latex-based glues is an allergic reaction, especially for individuals with a known latex sensitivity. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can range from mild irritation to swelling of the mouth and throat.
Temporary glues may also contain ingredients like glycol ethers, parabens, and phthalates. While exposure to these is primarily a concern for long-term health risks through skin absorption, the small volume ingested usually mitigates acute poisoning risk.
Immediate Action Steps Following Ingestion
The immediate response to eyelash glue ingestion should focus on minimizing contact and preventing further irritation or bonding. The first step is to quickly wipe out the mouth with a soft cloth to remove any liquid adhesive. Have the person rinse their mouth thoroughly with water, ensuring they spit out the rinse water rather than swallowing it.
Following the mouth rinse, giving the person a few sips of water or milk can help dilute any remaining residue and soothe the throat. This action is particularly important with cyanoacrylate glues, as the moisture in the mouth has already caused the majority of the liquid glue to solidify. If the glue has bonded the lips or teeth, do not attempt to forcibly pull them apart, as this can cause tissue damage.
If a small, hard piece of dried glue is stuck to the teeth, it can be gently brushed with a toothbrush, though it will naturally detach within a few days due to the moisture in the mouth. Monitoring for symptoms is necessary, including difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, vomiting, or abdominal pain.
If the person is a child, or if a large amount of glue was ingested, or if any severe symptoms develop, emergency medical attention should be sought immediately. Contacting a regional Poison Control Center is strongly recommended for expert guidance in all cases of accidental ingestion.