The artificial or false eyelashes that are so fashionable among young women today can be very destructive, a medical doctor has warned.

The medic has asserted that, though the young women may feel beautiful wearing artificial eyelashes, it can be dangerous to the extent of even causing blindness.

Julius Wirntem Fondzendzef, an Ophthalmologist and Coordinator of Integrated Community for Eye Care Services at the Mount Mary Hospital in Buea, maintained that; “When anything eventually gets into the eyes, there are natural mechanisms that cause the eyes to produce tears.

When the artificial eyelashes are put on the upper lids of the eye with the use of glue, which is non-living, applied on the skin, it pulls out the living cells and gradually makes the eyelashes to become dry and gradually fall off because there isn’t enough nutrients to moisten the eye.

This increases the bacteria in one’s eyes and thus, prevents the human eyes from functioning properly, especially when it comes to effective sight which could then lead to an individual’s complete loss of sight, that is, getting blind,” Wirntem stated.

The eye specialist advised that the eyelashes need to be handled with care since the eyes are a delicate part of the body.

Ticha Melani, a student at the University of Buea observed; “To me, putting these artificial eyelashes is just a waste of time and, moreover, I do not want to put my eyes at risk because the continuous applications of these artificial eyelashes can lead to eye blindness”.

While some people think that, the reason some women put on the false lashes is because they are ignorant, most of the women are aware of the consequences but do not care.

“I like artificial eyelashes because I see it as a secret for my beauty and I do not care about the after effects. What matters most to me is my unique beauty,” Dorcas Nji noted.

Cindy Shum, a student of Bokwaongo, said; “I love and adore the artificial eyelashes because, it brings out my hidden beauty and gives me an extra and unique look.”

Hannah Etanne, a hairdressing and fashion operator in Molyko, Buea, said she loves putting artificial eyelashes on people because it is through it that she earns a living.

Most people may think that young girls, especially those in university, are mostly those wearing the eyelashes, the false lashes, to some women, is not necessary because it doesn’t add up to their beauty in any way.