Lash extensions are safe if they are applied by an experienced and skilled lash stylist that uses strict hygienic measures and uses proper application technique. They should NEVER come in direct contact with skin. They should be placed about a millimeter away from the lash line. They should be strictly attached to one single eyelash. When it's time for your lash to shed naturally the extension will come off with it. This is why you do need to get touch ups appx every 3 weeks to keep them fluttery and fabulous. Extensions that are improperly placed and attached to multiple natural lashes can cause what is called "traction alopecia". Basically the pulling out of natural lashes before its time. As one hair grows its pulling out the other lash that is just beginning its lash life cycle. Same as when you over pluck your brows and that hair doesn't want to grow back. Repeated damage can result in permanent lash loss. Again, why it's most important to go to someone who is truly skilled. This is unfortunately seen all too often as a result of bad application or the cluster/flare lashes that are applied with a strong adhesive, are very inexpensive and take only 15 minutes to apply. A skilled professional can properly assess the condition and tolerance of lash extensions and adjust accordingly. Another issue is applying lashes too heavy for what the natural lashes can support. Repeated wear of too heavy/thick lashes on weaker natural lashes can then cause damage to the follicle. Major Overcrowding of the lash line is also a no no. Your lash follicle need room to breathe! It can contribute to a clogged follicle, yep, a little ouchie there. Use of sub par quality products is also a consideration. What products is your lash stylist using? I agree with the above response about allergies. There is always a risk to develop an allergy to any product we use. Lash extensions do carry a low risk because the extensions are bonded to the hair itself and not the skin. A lash professional should provide a thourough consultation and ask what allergies you have and explain accordingly. Make sure to tell your stylist any environmental allergies or product allergic reactions you may have had in the past. Another important point is your after care and home care. You have to keep those lashes super clean. Lashes naturally protect our eyes from dirt, dust and debris. Your enhanced lashes collect them just the same. Don't rub, pull or tug at your eyes. Very important to cleanse your lash line daily using a gentle cleansing technique that should be shown and explained to you at your appointment. Again, do not rub, tug or pull at your lashes, be gentle with those precious lashes and you can enjoy the extended wear and freedom from curlers and mascara :) You should not feel any discomfort while wearing eyelash extensions. If you do most def go back and have them looked at. In fact, they should feel like your own. The only different sensation is feeling the wind blow through your enhanced lashes. Kinda funny but true, there is more there and you can actually feel it. It's awesome. Whew! I know I blabbed quite a bit there but I feel it's important to know all of these points. A true professional should go over all of these points and more before your application. Please choose a qualified professional. Ask around, get word of mouth referrals. Important to view before and after photos of their OWN work- not company stock photos. Invest time in seeking/researching the best. Ask questions, if you don't get thorough answers move on to the next. Lash extension application is a mixture of a precision craft/skill combined with artistic capabilities to create the best look for YOU. They should Enhance your features, fit your lifestyle and make you feel more confident without any makeup (my fav benefit of all) Often time the saying "you get what you pay for" holds true. If the price is too cheap for your geographic area it should make you wonder at least a little bit "why"... It's a precision skill/time consuming process. I hope this info helps. I'm a lash stylist in NYC and am very VERY passionate about my work. Lash extensions are awesome and believe that they can enhance your beauty- make you look fresher, younger, less tired with a non invasive instant gratification as well as boost your self confidence. The biggest warning- they are completely addicting!!! Never underestimate the power of an enhanced wink! Most of all enjoy :) ~Ria

If you have any allergies or you get sick often, the extensions may make your eyes irritated, also if your skin is highly sensitive, it may irritate your skin. They should not be painful or harmful other than that or if it was not applied properly. If it starts to irritate your skin or eye area, then you should have them checked.

I did separate paragraphs, when I posted response it didn't keep them. :-/