As a lash technician, your job is to enhance the natural beauty of your clients by applying eyelash extensions.
However, this also means that you have a responsibility to educate your clients about how to care for their eyes properly and to share any potential risks linked to eyelash extensions.
Blepharitis is a common condition that can arise from improper lash extension application or poor eye hygiene. It's a skin condition that affects the oil glands in our eyelids, causing inflammation and irritation. In severe cases, it can even lead to infections and other serious complications.
In this blog post, we'll cover everything you need to know about blepharitis so that you can educate your clients and help them maintain healthy and beautiful lashes.
What is Blepharitis?
Blepharitis is a common chronic condition that affects the eyelid margins, where the eyelashes attach.
It occurs when the oil glands in our eyelids (meibomian glands) become clogged or infected, leading to inflammation.
There are two types of blepharitis:
- Anterior blepharitis impacts the front of the eyelid near the lash line.
- Posterior blepharitis impacts the meibomian glands on the inner edge of the eyelid.
What Causes Blepharitis?
Blepharitis is caused by a buildup of bacteria on the eyelids or an overproduction of oil from the meibomian glands.
However, several other factors can contribute to this eye condition:
- Poor hygiene: Not properly cleaning your eyelid margins can lead to an accumulation of bacteria, dead skin cells, and oil that can clog the meibomian glands.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may have allergic reactions to lash glues or eye makeup, which can cause inflammation and irritation of the eyelids.
- Eyelash mites: Yes, you read that right. Our eyelashes are home to tiny mites known as Demodex folliculorum (lash mites). While they are harmless in small numbers, an overgrowth of these mites can cause blepharitis symptoms.
What are the Symptoms of Blepharitis?
Blepharitis can present itself in various ways and may differ from person to person.
Some common symptoms include:
- Redness and swelling of the eyelids
- Itchiness and burning sensation
- Crusty lashes or flaky skin around the eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Watery or dry eyes
- Eyelid heaviness or discomfort
How Can Lash Technicians Help Prevent Blepharitis?
Although blepharitis is common, proper hygiene and preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing it.
As a lash technician, you play a crucial role in educating your clients about these preventive measures and eye health. Here are some ways you can help prevent blepharitis:
- Proper hygiene: Encourage your clients to regularly clean their eyelids with a lash cleanser like Lash Suds to remove bacteria, oil, and debris buildup. Educate your clients on how to clean their lash extensions correctly.
- Avoid oil-based products: Oil-based products can clog the meibomian glands and contribute to the development of blepharitis. Recommend oil-free eye makeup and avoid using any heavy oil-based products on their lashes.
- Warm compresses: Suggest using a warm compress on the eyes to help unclog the meibomian glands and improve tear production.
- Artificial tears: For clients with dry eyes, recommend using artificial tears to keep the eyes lubricated and prevent irritation.
Read our blog, The Benefits of Using Hypochlorous Acid With Lash Extensions, to learn how we incorporate this antibacterial, anti-inflammatory powerhouse into our application process.
When to Seek Medical Help
While blepharitis can be managed with proper hygiene and preventive measures, it's essential to know when to seek medical help.
If your client experiences any of the following symptoms, they should consult an eye care professional:
- Severe redness or swelling of the eyelids
- Persistent itching and burning sensation
- Sensitivity to light that doesn't go away
- Changes in vision
These could be signs of a bacterial infection or other underlying conditions that require medical attention.
Always prioritize your client's ocular health and refer them to a healthcare provider for any concerning symptoms.
Treatment for Blepharitis
Treatment for blepharitis depends on the severity and underlying cause of the condition.
In most cases, it can be managed with proper eyelid hygiene, warm compresses, and possibly antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medication.
Your clients should also avoid wearing any eye makeup or eyelash extensions until their symptoms improve.
Never apply eyelash extensions on clients with active blepharitis to prevent further irritation and the spread of bacteria.
Lash Extension Course in Calgary
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Our expert instructors provide hands-on training and in-depth knowledge to help you master the art of lash extensions while keeping your clients eye health a top priority.
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