This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Does that bargain price offered for eyelash and eyebrow extensions have your baby blues (or browns, hazels, etc.) all aflutter?
Be careful, says Francine A. Giani, executive director of the Utah Department of Commerce. Bargains are great, but first make sure those follicle enhancement providers are vetted by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.
DOPL on Thursday warned the public about possible health risks associated with using unlicensed providers for eyelash and eyebrow extensions requiring lash-by-lash application. You could be risking a host of nasty consequences from inflammatory reactions to adhesives used to attach the extensions, and the solvents used to remove them.
"While eyelash and brow extensions are popular trends on Facebook and Instagram, don't let fashion distract you from using a licensed provider in a clean environment," Giani cautioned. "Young people especially need to watch for red flags such as low prices and unsanitary conditions where these eye-related services are provided."
Demand for the procedures, which have prompted a slew of advertisements on various social media sites, have exploded of late. However, DOPL investigators note that some of those claiming to be "certified" providers do not have the required Utah cosmetology or estheticians license issued by the state agency.
Eyelash and brow extensions are applied through single synthetic fibers glued individually onto natural eyelashes with formaldehyde-based adhesives or other biologic glues. Health risks can arise when an unlicensed person applies the extensions in an unsanitary environment — such as a home — or near airborne dust, such as from nail salon services.
"What is concerning about unlicensed eyelash procedures is that many consumers may assume they are harmless and without health risk," said DOPL Director Mark Steinagel. "Consumers should carefully research who is providing these services with DOPL, make sure they are licensed, have the correct training and check the facility before signing up for these services."
To verify a license or file a complaint, call 801-530-6626, or visit DOPL's website at http://www.dopl.utah.gov/">http://www.dopl.utah.gov/.
Twitter: @remims Tips for Consumers seeking Eyelash or Brow Extensions •
— Are they a licensed cosmetologist or esthetician? Ask them to show you their state-issued DOPL license. Certified is not the same as a state-issued license for cosmetology or esthetics.
— Where are they providing the service? Are they applying the product in a salon? In a home? How professional is the environment?
— How clean is the sanitation? Where are they applying the product? Is it near nail services that add dust to the air and could impact your eyes? Is it being done in a dedicated esthetician area free from airborne particles?
— You get what you pay for. Consumers should carefully research providers of these cosmetic services and understand that a low price may mean additional risk on behalf of the consumer.
Source: Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing