For celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, they are essential to maintaining a glamorous appearance.
However, experts warn eyelash extensions can do more harm than good when done at home with products bought cheaply online.
Burning, swelling, scratched corneas and lashes falling out are among the dangers of the DIY beauty trend.
“When using products purchased cheaply on international platforms such as eBay and other overseas websites … there are high risks involved and you could seriously hurt yourself by using toxic and dangerous glues and other products,” said Ayla Akyol, founder of Lash Boss in Melbourne.
“Many of these products are extremely unsafe …”
Ms Akyol said some eyelash glues made overseas remained unregulated but were being purchased online by Australians.
“Some DIY lash kits are not even labeled correctly,” she added, claiming they can contain inaccurate information in the ingredients list.
Aside from allergic reactions, she said other DIY risks include individual lashes becoming glued together and coming out and even eye damage.
“Unfortunately we are seeing cases where people are trying to do DIY lash extensions at home using low quality products and because they are not familiar with the techniques they are getting glue in their eyes,” said Ms Akyol.
“This can cause burning and itching, and even worse, scarring of the cornea.
“For this reason, they should be avoided.
“Experienced lash technicians are trained to apply lash adhesive in a manner that does not impact the eyeball.”
She said lash extensions are a safe and effective way to enhance your appearance when done by a trained and experienced technician using quality products.
“All of the products we use and sell at Lash Boss have undergone testing,” Ms Akyol said.
“Our products are high quality, however, are for professional use only.”
Perth lash and brow expert Laura Alexander, owner of LA Lash and Brow Artistry in Swanbourne, says lash extensions aren’t cheap — starting at $150 for a natural full set which can last up to six weeks.
However, he said that although DIY kits may be cheaper, they are not worth the risk.
“I’ve had clients come to me who have done DIY lashes and the overuse of glue is a very common issue which can lead to adverse reactions including damaging your natural lashes, causing infections that require the use of antibiotic eye drops and one client of mine ended up in hospital because the tweezers in the kit were so sharp that they scratched her eye,” Ms Alexander said.
She works on about 10 clients a day and says there is huge demand in WA for lovely, long lashes because they create a very flattering appearance and there is no need for eyeliner and mascara, making it quicker to get ready every day.
“It looks like you’ve got mascara on 24/7,” Ms Alexander added.
“You wake up and look ‘finished’ which is what most clients love about it.”
She said another benefit of paying for a professional is that they will create a look to suit your face and features.