Dry Eye Syndrome in Lash Artists: Causes, Symptoms and Protection at Work

Dryness, burning, a “gritty” sensation in your eyes at the end of the day — does this sound familiar?

Dry eye syndrome is a condition in which the eyes lack sufficient natural lubrication. The tear film becomes unstable, causing the ocular surface to dry out and become irritated.

For lash artists, this issue is especially relevant. You work with intense concentration, blink less frequently, sit for hours at a time, often in air-conditioned or heated environments. All of this increases strain on the eyes.

If ignored, symptoms can become chronic.

Why Is It More Common Among Lash Technicians?

During procedures, you focus on millimeter precision. In these moments, blinking frequency drops significantly.

The less you blink, the faster the tear film evaporates — leading to dryness, irritation, and redness.

Additional contributing factors:

• dry indoor air

• working under a lamp

• air conditioning and fans

• wearing contact lenses

• cyanoacrylate-based adhesive fumes

The last factor is often underestimated.

Symptoms You Should Not Ignore

• eye redness

• burning or stinging

• gritty or foreign body sensation

• excessive tearing

• increased light sensitivity

• rapid eye fatigue

• discomfort in airflow or wind

• blurred vision by the end of the day

  If symptoms occur regularly, consult an eye care professional. Dry eye syndrome requires attention, especially with daily visual strain.

What Can Worsen Dryness During Lash Extensions?

Lash adhesive polymerizes while releasing cyanoacrylate fumes.

Even if you barely notice the smell, the ocular surface still reacts to the vapors. If dry eye syndrome is already present, fumes may intensify burning and redness.

Important: This does not mean the adhesive is “dangerous.” However, constant exposure to vapors represents an additional occupational strain.

If you work with 4–6 clients per day over many years, this factor should not be ignored.

Prevention for Lash Artists

Dry eye syndrome is easier to manage than to treat.

What to implement in your routine:

• Be mindful of blinking.
  Simple — but effective.
• Monitor indoor humidity.
  A humidifier can be a practical professional tool.
  However, balance is crucial: excessive humidity may affect adhesive curing speed. A stable and controlled microclimate is essential.
• Avoid direct airflow to the face.
• Use lubricating eye drops if recommended by your doctor.

• Give your eyes regular breaks.
  Even 5 minutes between clients helps reduce strain.

Adhesive Fume Neutralizer — Protection for the Professional

If you experience dry eyes or want to minimize irritation from fumes, consider additional workspace protection.

Beautier Adhesive Fume Neutralizer is an absorbent gel placed next to the adhesive during procedures.

It:

• absorbs part of the cyanoacrylate fumes

• reduces vapor concentration in the work area

• decreases irritation of the mucous membranes

• may help lower the risk of cumulative adhesive sensitivity

Usage is simple:
Open the product and place it next to the adhesive on your workstation during the procedure.

Dry eye syndrome is not a minor issue.

For a lash artist, eye health is a professional asset. The more attention you pay to your workspace microclimate and fume protection, the more comfortable and sustainable your career will be.

Your clients’ beauty begins with your own health.