First and foremost, allergic reactions caused by lash extensions are extremely rare.
It is important to understand the difference between an allergy and an irritation. The most common symptoms of a reaction are swollen eyes/eyelids, redness of the cornea and discomfort or itchiness around the eye area. These symptoms will most likely occur within 48 hours post-application and typically won’t subside over time.
Clients who experience a reaction could be allergic to cyanoacrylate, a base ingredient utilised in many lash extension adhesives. Therefore, if a client is experiencing an allergic reaction to this ingredient, a full removal is necessary, to prevent any further complications. Furthermore, a client can show little to no symptoms for months whilst wearing lash extensions, before the allergen affects them.
In terms of irritation vs an allergy, irritation symptoms are more or less similar however not as severe. These symptoms include any redness or slight itching and generally occurs 24 hours post-application. However, in comparison to an allergic reaction, irritation will subside once the adhesive has properly cured and is often induced by the adhesive fumes. Clients may also experience seasonal irritation/allergies or if their eyes are quite sensitive in general. If you are concerned about a possible reaction, especially if it is your first time, we recommend that you come in 24 hours prior to your appointment for a patch test. A patch test involves applying a tiny drop of adhesive on sensitive areas of your body (behind the ear/back of the elbow) and if you were to be allergic, a reaction will occur within the next few hours.
Moreover, at The Lash Spa we take certain measures to ensure ease of application and minimise the risks of a reaction/irritation. These measures include operating within a well-ventilated room, utilising medical tape and an appropriate amount of 0.5-second glue to minimise fumes and increase the curing time.
We also always explain aftercare with our new and regular clients.
In regards to “Can I get an allergic reaction in just one eye” it is very unlikely that you will experience a true allergic reaction in one eye. However, you can most definitely experience irritation (redness/ itchiness) in just one eye. This can occur if a technician were to use eye pads which are placed too close to your eyeball or the eyes aren’t properly closed and therefore the fumes can affect one or both eyes.