Magnetic lashes are generally safe for occasional use when applied, worn and removed correctly, but they are not risk-free. Review date:. The main risks are eyelid irritation, allergic reactions, contamination, corneal scratches and loss of natural eyelashes. Some strip designs use two magnetic strips to hold the natural lashes between them.
Remove magnetic lashes and magnetic eyeliner before an MRI because the magnets can move in the scanner's magnetic field and create image artifacts.
| Question | Short answer |
|---|---|
| Are magnetic lashes safer than glue-on lashes? | They may reduce exposure to lash glue, but they are not automatically safer. |
| Are magnetic eyeliner lashes safe? | Usually, but the eyeliner can cause irritation or an allergic reaction. |
| Can you wear them every day? | Occasional use is preferable, especially if you have sensitive eyes or eyelid problems. |
| Can you wear them during an MRI? | No. Remove the lashes and magnetic eyeliner before entering the MRI area. |
| Should you sleep in magnetic lashes? | No. Remove them before sleeping. |
Why Can Magnetic Lashes Cause Problems?
Magnetic lashes can cause problems when they rub against the eyelid or cornea, pinch natural eyelashes, or carry contamination close to the eye.
Possible problems include:
- Eyelid redness, itching or swelling
- Irritant or allergic contact dermatitis
- Corneal abrasions, which are scratches on the eye's surface
- Loss or breakage of natural eyelashes
- Eye infections from contaminated products
- Discomfort caused by the lash's weight or movement
An ophthalmic review links magnetic and metallic cosmetic products used near the eye with allergic reactions, eyelash loss and corneal abrasions.
Magnetic Strip Lashes and Magnetic Eyeliner Lashes Are Different
These products avoid traditional lash glue in different ways, so their risks are not the same.
Magnetic Strip Lashes
Magnetic strip lashes attach to natural eyelashes with small magnets. Some designs sandwich the natural lashes between two strips.
Their main risks are:
- Pinching or pulling natural eyelashes
- Rubbing against the eyelid or eye surface
- Lash breakage during removal
- Bacterial transfer from shared or poorly cleaned lashes
Magnetic Eyeliner Lashes
Magnetic eyeliner lashes attach to eyeliner containing magnetic or metallic ingredients, commonly including iron oxides.
The eyeliner can cause:
- Burning or stinging
- Eyelid dermatitis
- Swelling or itching
- Irritation from preservatives, pigments or other ingredients
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises checking the ingredient list for eye cosmetics and stopping use if irritation occurs. Cosmetic products are not generally FDA-approved before they reach the market, although color additives must meet applicable requirements.
Are Magnetic Lashes Safer Than Glue-On False Eyelashes?
Magnetic lashes may suit people who react to traditional lash glue, but safety depends on the product and how it is used.
| Product | Main advantage | Main concern |
|---|---|---|
| Magnetic strip lashes | No liquid adhesive on the eyelid | Pinching, rubbing, lash traction and contamination |
| Magnetic eyeliner lashes | May avoid traditional lash glue | Eyeliner allergy, irritation and difficult removal |
| Glue-on false lashes | Widely available and often inexpensive | Adhesive-related allergy, irritation and accidental eye injury |
| Professional extensions | Longer-lasting appearance | Glue allergy, infection, eyelash loss and corneal irritation |
If you have sensitive skin, eczema around the eyes or a history of cosmetic allergies, check the ingredients in magnetic eyeliner carefully. The eyeliner may be more likely to cause a reaction than the magnets.
How to Use Magnetic Lashes More Safely
Wash your hands before applying them. Hands and eye cosmetics can transfer bacteria to the eye area.
Choose a product with a complete ingredient list. Avoid unlabeled products or packaging that is damaged or unsealed.
Do not share lashes or magnetic eyeliner. Sharing eye cosmetics can transfer bacteria and fungi.
Keep the lash on the outer lash line. Do not let it touch the inner eyelid or eye surface.
Remove the lashes gently. Separate magnetic strips without pulling. Forceful removal can take out natural eyelashes or irritate the eyelid.
Clean reusable lashes as directed by the manufacturer. Discard them if they become dirty, damaged or difficult to clean.
Do not wear them overnight. Sleeping in eye cosmetics can increase irritation, product migration and contamination.
Stop using them if they burn, itch or cause swelling. The FDA recommends stopping an eye cosmetic when it causes irritation. Seek medical advice if symptoms continue.
Remove Magnetic Lashes Before an MRI
Do not wear magnetic eyelashes or magnetic eyeliner into an MRI scanner room.
An MRI's magnetic field can pull magnetic eyelashes away from the eyelid and create image artifacts. The American College of Radiology lists magnetic cosmetics, including magnetic eyelashes, on its MRI safety screening form. Tell the MRI staff that you use magnetic lashes, even if you plan to remove them before the scan.
Remove all magnetic lash strips and magnetic eyeliner before the appointment. Do not assume that small or lightweight magnets are safe in the MRI area.
Who Should Avoid Magnetic Lashes?
Avoid magnetic lashes until the problem has resolved if you have:
- An active eye infection
- Inflamed or irritated eyelids
- Significant blepharitis
- A recent eye procedure or eyelid surgery
- Unexplained eye pain, discharge or blurred vision
- A previous reaction to magnetic eyeliner or false lashes
The FDA advises avoiding eye cosmetics when the eye or surrounding skin is infected or inflamed. If you have recurring irritation, dry-eye symptoms or eyelid disease, ask an optometrist or ophthalmologist before using magnetic lashes.
When Should You Seek Medical Help?
Remove the lashes and seek prompt eye-care advice if you develop:
- Persistent eye pain
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred or reduced vision
- A feeling that something is stuck in the eye
- Marked swelling
- Pus-like discharge
- Redness that does not improve after removal
These symptoms can indicate a corneal abrasion, infection or another problem that needs more than simple product removal.
Bottom Line
Magnetic lashes are usually suitable for occasional use when the eyes are healthy and the products are clean, correctly fitted and removed gently. Remove them before an MRI, and stop using them if they cause irritation or an allergic reaction.