Harvard doctor pinpoints make-up favourite that can make you go BLIND: ‘Do not use’

By LUKE CHAFER

Published: 08:50 BST, 14 June 2025 | Updated: 08:50 BST, 14 June 2025

Fake eyelashes could have devastating long-term health consequences—including blindness—a leading doctor has warned.

The adhesive used to apply them often contains a dangerous chemical, according to Dr Saurabh Sethi, a US-based doctor trained at Harvard University.

In a video posted to Instagram, which has racked up more than 120,000 views and over 1,000 likes, Dr Sethi explains the potential risks.

‘Fake eyelashes are becoming increasingly popular, but the adhesive glue often contains formaldehyde, which can cause allergic reactions, thinning and permanent loss of natural eyelashes,’ he says.

‘In rare cases, it can even lead to blindness. To minimise this risk, avoid fake eyelashes or use formaldehyde-free adhesives.’

Experts say formaldehyde is added to lash glue to improve shelf life and stickiness—though the same chemical is more commonly used to preserve dead bodies.

At high concentrations, it can disrupt cellular function and trigger shortness of breath, headaches and skin irritation. 

An American study from 2022 tested 37 lash glues and found that 75 per cent of the 20 professional products released formaldehyde, while four of the 17 consumer glues also contained the chemical. 

Dr Saurabh Sethi a US based doctor who trained at Harvard University warns against fake eyelashes

Eyelash extensions are tiny, hair-like fibers that estheticians place under, between or on top of your natural lash line using glue to create long, luscious lashes

Some lash glues containing formaldehyde failed to list it among their ingredients.

The chemical can trigger a range of reactions when it comes into contact with the eye.

In a 2012 study by Japanese researchers involving 100 women who experienced adverse effects from fake eyelashes, 40 per cent were found to have had an allergic reaction to the glue. 

The most common condition reported was keratoconjunctivitis—an inflammatory eye disorder affecting both the cornea and the conjunctiva.

The same study also found that some women developed blepharitis—an inflammation of the eyelids.

The eyelid margins contain hair follicles where lashes grow, along with two types of glands that produce antimicrobial substances to prevent bacterial buildup around the eyes.

Despite health warnings, the eyelash extension industry is booming. 

Valued at $1.4 billion in 2020, it is projected to grow to $2.3 billion by 2028, according to Verified Market Research.

Eyelash extensions are tiny, hair-like fibres—typically made from synthetic materials, silk or mink—applied to the lash line using glue to create fuller, longer lashes. 

The procedure is purely cosmetic and typically carried out by trained estheticians.

Interestingly, scientists have recently uncovered the biological function of eyelashes.

A 2023 study by researchers in China found that lashes play a crucial role in protecting the eyes—from diverting sweat and water, to reducing airflow over the eye’s surface, keeping it lubricated and shielding it from airborne particles by triggering blinking.

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Harvard doctor pinpoints make-up favourite that can make you go BLIND: ‘Do not use’

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