False lashes are definitely a must-have in every girl’s beauty routine now, letting you switch up your look from okay to WOW just like that. But, uh, when the day’s over and you’re reaching for those makeup wipes, you have to wonder: is it okay to simply go to sleep with your falsies still on? Right here, right now, let’s talk about what it’s like, and what might happen if you happe to doze off with them. Is it a big beauty no-no or just no big deal?
Why do girls like to wear false lashes?
Girls are all about false lashes these days because they give you that instant, dramatic eye look without much effort. They make your eyes look bigger and more awake, by adding volume and length that mascara alone often can’t achieve. The allure of maintaining that captivating look even through the night can be tempting. Imagine waking up with those perfectly curled, voluminous lashes still intact, ready to face the world without any extra effort. It sounds almost too good to be true, and perhaps it is.
What Sleeping With Falsies On Feels Like
Whether you can sleep with false lashes on really depends on a lot of things. For example, it depends on the kind of falsies you’re wearing, the glue you used, and how sensitive your skin is. Some people might sleep with falsies on absolutely fine, while others could wake up with irritated eyes. How you sleep can make a big difference. If you sleep on your back, you’re less likely to mess up your falsies because there’s no friction against the pillow. But if you’re a side or stomach sleeper, your lashes might get squished.
Initial Comfort.
For many, the first hour or so after hitting the pillow with false lashes on can feel perfectly fine. High-quality lashes and glue often don’t cause immediate discomfort.
Discomfort Over Time
As the night progresses, the presence of something foreign on your eyelids becomes more noticeable. Tossing and turning can lead to lashes being bent or misplaced, causing poking and general discomfort.
Potential Irritation
Adhesive residue and the pressure of lashes against your eyelids can lead to redness, itchiness, and irritation. Some people might wake up with swollen eyelids or even experience mild allergic reactions.
Sleep Quality
There’s also the question of sleep quality. Being subconsciously aware of the delicate lashes might lead to more restless sleep, as you try to avoid positions that could damage them.
The Good
While it might seem improbable, there are some potential benefits to sleeping with false lashes:
That Morning Glam
Waking up with lashes that still look fabulous can save you time and effort in your morning routine. This is especially useful for those with busy schedules or early morning commitments.
Confidence Boost
The feeling of waking up looking more polished can be a confidence booster. For some, the psychological benefit of starting the day with a ready-to-go look is significant.
Trip Convenience
When traveling, especially for short trips or business, having falsies on overnight can minimize the need to carry extra makeup supplies and save time getting ready.
Special Occasions
For events like weddings or early morning photoshoots, keeping false lashes on overnight can ensure you maintain a consistent and flawless look without needing touch-ups.
Consistent Look
Maintaining a consistent look with your false lashes can help with makeup continuity, especially for multi-day events or consecutive days of filming and photography.
Minimal Makeup Routine
For those who prefer a minimal makeup routine, waking up with false lashes on can reduce the need for additional eye makeup, simplifying the process.
Practice and Adaptation
Regularly sleeping with false lashes might help some individuals get used to the sensation, making it more comfortable over time and reducing initial discomfort.
Time Management
For individuals with very tight schedules, saving even a few minutes in the morning by not needing to apply lashes can be a significant benefit.
The Bad
Allergic Reactions
Some people may develop allergic reactions to the adhesive used in false lashes, leading to redness, swelling, and discomfort, which can be exacerbated by prolonged wear overnight.
Dry Eyes
Sleeping with false lashes might interfere with the natural lubrication of the eyes, leading to dry eyes or exacerbating existing dry eye conditions.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
The risk of developing conjunctivitis increases with the prolonged presence of adhesives and the accumulation of bacteria around the eyes.
Lash Mites (Cringe!!)
The presence of false lashes and adhesive can attract and harbor lash mites (Demodex), which feed on skin cells and oils, leading to irritation and infections.
Compromised Lash Adhesion
Repeatedly sleeping with false lashes can weaken the adhesive bond, causing lashes to fall off prematurely and requiring more frequent reapplications.
Discomfort and Terrible Sleep Quality
The physical presence of false lashes and the discomfort they cause can lead to restless sleep, affecting overall sleep quality and leaving you feeling tired and unrested.
Increased Maintenance Costs
Damaged false lashes need to be replaced more frequently, leading to increased costs over time, both in purchasing new lashes and potentially seeking treatments for any lash or skin damage caused.
Permanent Lash Loss
Chronic stress and damage to natural lashes from the prolonged use of false lashes can lead to permanent lash loss or thinning, making it difficult to achieve a natural look without false lashes.
Contact Lens Complications
For those who wear contact lenses, sleeping with false lashes can exacerbate complications, increasing the risk of irritation and infection due to trapped debris and bacteria.
Basically…
Lash Damage
False lashes can get bent, twisted, or fall off during sleep. This not only ruins the falsies but can also damage your natural lashes. The pressure and friction can cause your natural lashes to break or fall out prematurely.
Eye Health
Sleeping with any makeup, including falsies, can lead to eye infections. The adhesive can trap dirt and bacteria, creating a breeding ground for infections. Furthermore, the prolonged presence of glue can cause allergic reactions and inflammation.
Skin Issues
The skin around your eyes is delicate. Keeping false lashes on overnight means the adhesive remains on your skin for an extended period, which can lead to clogged pores and potential skin irritation.
Dermatologists and ophthalmologists generally advise against sleeping with false lashes saying:
Dr. Sandra Lee, Dermatologist: “Leaving false lashes on overnight can cause significant damage to both your natural lashes and the delicate skin around your eyes. It’s crucial to give your skin a chance to breathe and recover.”
Dr. Sarah Logan, Ophthalmologist: “The risk of eye infections increases when makeup and adhesives are left on overnight. It’s best to remove all eye makeup, including false lashes, before going to bed.”
What do girls who have braved the night with false lashes on say about going to bed wearing falsies?
Jen, 27: “I thought it would be a time-saver to sleep with my false lashes on, but I woke up with one lash half off and the other poking my eye. It wasn’t worth the hassle and discomfort.”
Bella, 34: “I used to sleep with my falsies on when I had early morning meetings. After a few nights, I noticed my natural lashes were thinning and breaking. I stopped immediately.”
Alex, 22: “It’s tempting to keep them on, especially after a late night out. But waking up with irritated, swollen eyes isn’t fun. Now, I always take the extra few minutes to remove them properly.”
Alternatives to Sleeping in Falsies
If you love the look of false lashes but want to avoid the risks associated with sleeping in them, consider these alternatives:
Lash Extensions
Professional lash extensions are designed to last for weeks, eliminating the need for daily application and removal. They are applied by a technician and are generally safe to sleep in.
Magnetic Lashes
These lashes use tiny magnets instead of adhesive, making them easier to remove and reapply without damaging your natural lashes.
Lash Serums
Boost your natural lash growth with serums designed to lengthen and thicken your lashes. This way, you can wake up with naturally beautiful lashes.
Quality Mascara
Invest in a high-quality mascara that gives you the desired volume and length without the need for falsies. There are mascaras specifically formulated for long-lasting wear.
Sleeping with false lashes on might seem like a minor beauty shortcut, but it comes with significant downsides. The potential for lash damage, eye infections, and skin irritation far outweighs the fleeting benefit of waking up with perfect lashes. Taking the time to remove your false lashes before bed is a small but crucial step in maintaining your overall eye health and beauty. Instead, consider safer alternatives that offer the same glamorous effect without compromising your well-being. Ultimately, while the idea of waking up looking effortlessly glamorous is appealing, the reality of sleeping with false lashes is less than ideal. Prioritize your eye health and skincare routine, and you’ll find that a few extra minutes at night will save you from discomfort and potential damage in the long run. Remember, true beauty sleep involves taking care of your body and skin, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready to face the day.
