With Christmas just around the corner many of us will be off to beautify ourselves with eyelash extensions.
However, experts have issued a warning to anyone wanting to make their lashes look fuller and longer. The popular beauty trend could hold serious health risks - including lash lice and infections.
The beauty treatment involves synthetic or fur lashes individually adhered to your natural lash line with a special glue. While it can look beautiful when done, it can easily cause eye problems if you don't look after them properly.
READ MORE: Symptoms of lung cancer as Jonnie Irwin shares terminal diagnosis
Many people will think that they can't get their lashes wet with fear of them falling out. However, you should actually do your best to keep your lashes clean.
Expert Dr Sairah Malik told ABC7 news: "Generally the idea when you have eyelash extensions is that people are afraid to kind of touch them or wash them because they're afraid the eyelash will fall out."
The health professional also warned of lash lice, also known as demodex lice. She explained: "It's an organism that lives on the hair follicles. It can jump on to anyone, it is just like having head lice."
Symptoms to look out for can include burning skin sensations and flaky, red, skin and can lead to infection. To help prevent lash lice, Dr Malik suggested keeping your extensions as clean as possible.
She said: "We recommend tea tree base cleanser. Any cleanser that has a diluted form of tea tree, and it is a good idea to use on a daily basis."
Receive newsletters with the latest news, sport and what's on updates from the Liverpool ECHO by signing up here
READ NEXT:
Martin Lewis advises when not to use your washing machine
I'm a Celebrity's Ant and Dec report Charlene to bosses after 'breaking rules'
Lorraine Kelly shows off 'new look' with body tattoos
Martin Lewis' warning to anyone with a savings account
Millions to get more DWP Cost of Living payments and how much you'll get
