Lash glue accidentally getting into the eye is a common concern. While it can be an alarming experience, understanding the proper response can help minimize potential harm and ensure eye safety.
Immediate Steps for Eye Contact
If lash glue gets into your eye, staying calm is the first step to prevent further injury. Immediately begin flushing the affected eye with clean, lukewarm water. This can be done by holding your eye under a gentle stream from a faucet or using a clean container to pour water over the eye for at least 5 to 15 minutes.
Avoid rubbing your eye, as this can spread the glue and potentially cause more damage to the eye tissues. If you wear contact lenses, remove them immediately if possible, as glue can adhere to the lenses and cause further irritation or make removal difficult. If your eyelids become glued together, do not attempt to force them apart. Instead, continue flushing with warm water, and if they remain bonded, seek professional medical attention.
Understanding Symptoms and Potential Effects
When lash glue enters the eye, symptoms can arise due to chemicals like cyanoacrylate in the adhesive. Common reactions include irritation, redness, and a stinging or burning sensation. You might also experience excessive tearing or a feeling as if a foreign object is present in your eye.
The glue can affect the eye’s surface, potentially leading to inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the eyelid and covering the white of the eye, or the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. This can sometimes result in blurred vision or sensitivity to light. While many cases cause only temporary discomfort, certain glues contain chemicals like formaldehyde, which can trigger allergic reactions, leading to more pronounced symptoms like swelling, itching, or even a rash around the eyes.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
While many instances of lash glue in the eye resolve with immediate flushing, certain signs indicate professional medical attention is needed. Seek care promptly if you experience severe pain, persistent blurred vision, or any degree of vision loss after the incident. Significant swelling of the eye or eyelid, unusual discharge, or increased sensitivity to light are also warning signs requiring evaluation.
If your eyelids remain glued shut after attempting to flush them with water, it is important to see an eye doctor or visit an emergency room. Do not try to remove bonded glue yourself, as this can cause severe injury to the cornea or other parts of the eye. An eye care professional can safely assess the damage and remove any remaining glue, often using lubricants and warm water, and may prescribe antibiotic eye drops to prevent infection or steroid drops to reduce inflammation.
Preventative Measures
Preventing lash glue from getting into your eyes involves careful application techniques and proper product handling. Always work in a well-lit area to ensure clear visibility during application. When applying strip lashes, use a minimal amount of glue, applying a thin line along the lash strip, and allow it to become tacky for about 20-30 seconds before placement. This helps prevent excess glue from entering the eye.
Keeping your eyes closed during the application of false lashes or extensions minimizes glue contact and protects from adhesive vapors. Using a mirror can help with precise placement. After each use, ensure the lash glue bottle is tightly sealed and stored upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Proper storage maintains the glue’s consistency and effectiveness, reducing clumping and accidental spills.