If you've been on social media this month, you may have seen alarming posts claiming lash extensions are "breeding grounds" for mites. We're here to educate you about how important lash shampoo really is.
What the research found
A study titled "Eyelash extensions and Demodex folliculorum: influence on eyelid microenvironment and ocular surface health" surveyed 345 women aged 16 to 28. Almost a quarter had worn lash extensions, and 58% of those had them done every three to four weeks. Nearly half of the wearers (47.6%) reported redness, itching, tearing or discomfort after an appointment. Among women who'd had extensions at least ten times, 85% showed signs of dysfunction in the meibomian glands, the tiny oil glands along the lash line.
Then came the headline finding. Lash samples from 25 regular wearers were examined under a microscope, and Demodex mites were found in 24 of them (96%). Of the 25 women, 72% also showed signs of mite-related irritation.
What it doesn't say
The study had no comparison group of women without extensions, and Demodex mites naturally live on most people's skin. So it can't show that extensions cause mites. An independent expert also noted that mites can be a normal part of the eye area. The "glue breeding ground" claim didn't come from the researchers either. The expert's point was that adhesive sits near the lash base, so signs of mites may just be harder to spot.
It's also early research: a small study presented as a conference abstract and not yet published as a peer-reviewed paper.
The real takeaway
The lead researcher said the findings don't mean people should avoid lash extensions. They show that lash hygiene matters, and that beauty professionals have a role in guiding clients. For lash artists, the answer is simple: every client needs a lash shampoo.
Oil, makeup, sunscreen and dust build up right where the bond sits. Clients who skip cleansing end up with clumpy, dull lashes. A dedicated lash shampoo cleans gently, without the oils that weaken adhesive.
Use it, stock it, sell it
Cleanse every client before every set and infill, keep lash shampoo at reception, and send clients home with a kit. Clients who cleanse come back with cleaner, fuller sets, and your infills get easier.
Our Lash Foaming Cleanser + Brush Kit includes the Lash Foam Cleanser, a cleansing brush and a mascara wand, all ready to retail. It's vegan and sulfate-free, and it gently lifts away oil, makeup and residue. In our survey of 20+ salons, 91% said lashes felt cleaner, 90% saw better retention and 100% would recommend it to clients.
Buy the 20 pack at $12.57 per kit, sell at the $29.95 RRP, and you'll make $17.38 profit on every kit, or $347.60 on the whole pack.
👉 Stock up on the Lash Foaming Cleanser + Brush Kit
Clean lashes. Longer-lasting results.
The research isn't a reason to fear lash extensions. It's a reminder that great lashes start with clean lashes and see the opportunity for upsells with every client, keeping both you and them happy :)
Source: Zhmud T. et al., Abstract PP01.04, 44th ESCRS Congress, London, 12 September 2026 (ESCRS). Lash shampoo is a cosmetic cleanser, not a treatment. Refer clients with ongoing irritation to an optometrist. Prices include GST; profit shown is before GST and other business costs.
