Selena Gomez inspired in many of us a new-found appreciation for tweezers. Back in June last year, the singer-songwriter introduced us to a hack that promised the lashes a next-level flutter, and you best believe a pair of tweezers headlined the entire thing. The revelation left in its trail a cartage of heart-eyed TikTokers and Instagrammers that attested to the technique’s effectiveness.
Though months have gone by ever since, dermatologists are now contesting the safety of the hack. Because, apparently, it’s costing you much more than you’d ever signed up for. Dr. Sravya C. Tipirneni, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetologist & Trichologist at Manipal Hospitals in Bangalore and Dr. Debeshi, Clinical Cosmetic & Aesthetic Expert Founder of Lueur Aesthetics, have something to say about Sel’s mascara hack, and it’s shocking.
Is It Time To Put One Of The Best Hacks To Rest?
Remember? The Mascara-Tweezer Hack?
Does your memory need jogging? Here’s why Selena Gomez’ hack had us all mind-blown. The singer-songwriter enlists the expertise of a tweezer for this hack. She coats the insides of the tweezer in some mascara before clamping down on each lash along the lower lash line with it. She goes on to do this for every lash. This individual layering makes her lashes look darker, thicker, and clump-free.
But It’s Not All That Simple
Just like Dr. Whitney Bowe’s claims, Dr. Debeshi and Dr. Sravya explain that the hack can cause trauma to the lower lash line. This constant prodding and clamping can lead to the thinning and loss of lashes temporarily and in the long term. That’s why both experts recommend resorting to the hack once or twice a month if need be. Dr. Debeshi even dissuades us from applying product on the lower lashes because of how delicate the area is. Not the best beauty hack, then, is it?
What About Something More Long-Lasting Like A Lash Lift?
Dr. Debeshi explains that lash-lifting procedures are limited to the upper lash line only, but even these treatments cause damage to the lashes. For those contemplating opting for the procedure, Dr. Sravya goes over the basics. “A lash-lift curls your lash from the base to the tip. The results last for about 4-6 weeks depending on how quickly your eyelashes grow. It’s recommended to avoid mascara for 48 hours post-treatment — and you must refrain from touching the lashes during this period.”
She goes on to explain that the lash-lift method can weaken the lashes, and if not done properly, may lead to fall/breakage. This is because the chemicals employed in the process can break down the proteins in your lashes. Do consult a dermatologist before arriving at a decision to minimise these side effects and risks.
Here’s What You Can Do To Strengthen Your Lashes
- Do not try to rub the mascara off your eyes. Transfer a gentle makeup-removing formula to a piece of cotton before going over the eyes with it.
- Brush your lashes with a spoolie/clean mascara wand.
- Let your lashes breathe once in a while. Don’t ambush them with mascaras and eyeshadow all the time.
- Moisturise the lashes with castor, olive oil, and coconut oils.
- Hydrate and strengthen dry, brittle lashes with aloe or petroleum jelly. Aloe excels at soothing and moisturising as well as boosting the production of collagen.
- Invest in lash-boosting mascaras and lash-growth serums. Both can help in growth and repair over time.
- Speak to your dermatologist and work supplements into your routine that best address your concern.
If You’ve Been Swearing By The Hack…Here’s Some Damage Control
Though this was one of the most sought-after makeup hacks to come out of 2022, it’s probably best that we put it to rest.
Featured Image: Instagram
