(WTXL) — If you're a fan of eyelash extensions, you may want to take cleaning them a little more seriously before placing them on your eyes.
ABC 7 News reports that some optometrists say they're seeing an increase in cases of lash lice, known by its medical name, Demodex.
Not cleaning eyelash extensions leads to an increase in bacteria and can even lead to infections. If you don't clean your lashes, you could experience itchiness, redness and inflammation, and even lice.
These lice, like head lice, lives on hair follicles, meaning they can jump and transfer to anyone.
Dr. Sairah Malik told ABC 7 News that neglecting to clean the lashes leads to bacteria buildup.
"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," Dr. Malik said.
Dr. Malik recommends using tree oil, an treatment for hair, skin and nails that can be antibacterial.
To keep your eyes safe, Dr. Malik tells ABC 7 News, it's a good idea to give your eyelids an occasional break from lash extensions.
