Nouveau Lashes experts explain why D.I.Y lash lifts should never be done at home

As leading lash experts, we feel that it’s our duty to advise on the best possible way on how to look after lashes. In our opinion (as well as the views of experts in the fields of optometry and trichology), there are dangers to using D.I.Y lash lift kits at home. This is largely due to the chemical nature of the products; there’s also in-depth training for professional lash artists regarding how long each step should be left on for and the correct amount of product to apply.

We cannot stress this enough: lash lift kits are extremely dangerous and should not be used at home. The chemicals in these kits – when used incorrectly – can potentially cause significant damage and permanent lash loss, as well as threaten eyesight.

What are the dangers of D.I.Y lash lifts?
The main ingredient in a lash lift is called ammonium thioglycolate. This chemical is used in hair perming, hair straightening and hair removal because it can change hair structure via the disulphide bonds (found in the cortex of the hair). The alkaline pH can also cause the hair cuticle to swell and change the inner structure of the hair bonds.

Consultant trichologist, Trisha Buller, highlights the importance of letting a trained artist administer chemicals such as ammonium thioglycolate: “When applying this solution to lashes, it’s imperative that extreme precision and care is taken. Hence, only qualified lash artists who understand the potential hazards should be carrying out this services.”

Trisha also points out that, if certain steps are not carried out, this could lead to significant damage. “If necessary precautions are not taken, such as the minimum 24-hour patch test and products being left on for the correct amount of time, there is a risk that this could lead to permanent loss of lashes or burnt eyelids.

“This can cause contact dermatitis, which can then lead to an ongoing eye sensitivity and allergic reactions to other products such as eye shadow, mascara, eyeliner and even skincare creams. Not to mention the safety of your eyesight.”

Similarly, Nouveau Lashes‘ consultant optometrist Francesca Marchetti warns about the dangers of the chemicals found in D.I.Y lash lifts: “People should absolutely not be doing at-home lash lift kits. They can cause severe danger to the eye if used without the correct training, such as chemical burns from the ammonia that they often contain. Should these chemicals enter the eye, they could burn the cornea (surface of the eye) causing ulceration and possibly even scar tissue, all of which would be extremely painful and potentially even sight-threatening.”

Why is it important to wait for a professional lash lift?
Lash artists are trained in how to use the correct formulations safely, using specific timings, application techniques and equipment. “When a lash lift is performed, professionals are using chemicals that, if used incorrectly, can cause significant damage,” explains Angela Thiagarajah, Nouveau Lashes‘ head of product development. “If steps aren’t left on for the correct timing, not applied in the correct way or not removed properly, this can lead to lash loss.”

Angela suggests that clients should ensure their lashes are in optimum health for when they do return for a treatment, instead of using a D.I.Y lash lift kit. “My advice would be to focus on caring for your lashes and applying conditioning strengthening products such as the Nouveau Lashes Lash & Brow Conditioning Serum or Triple Enhance Lash Serum. When we come out the other side of this, your lashes will be beautifully preened and conditioned.”

Let’s leave the lash lifting to the experts!