Eyelash extensions have become one of the most popular beauty treatments in the UK. You may choose them because they save time, look natural, and last for weeks. But even though they seem harmless, things can go wrong. If a beautician makes a mistake or fails to follow proper safety steps, you could suffer an allergic reaction or another type of injury.
If this has happened to you, you may be wondering whether you can claim compensation. In this guide, you will learn when you can make a claim, how negligence is assessed, how much compensation you might receive, and what steps can help support your case.
This article is written in simple English so that you can easily understand your rights and the claims process.
What Counts as an Allergic Reaction to Eyelash Extensions?
An allergic reaction usually happens when the glue used during the application irritates your skin or eyes. Lash adhesives can contain ingredients such as:
- Cyanoacrylate
- Formaldehyde
- Latex
These substances can cause sensitivity, especially around the eyes, which are naturally delicate. A reaction can develop within minutes or hours of your treatment.
You might experience symptoms such as:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Watery eyes
- Itching or irritation
- Blurred vision
- Burning sensation
- Pain around the eyelid
- Infection
Some reactions are mild and settle within a few days, but others can be much more serious. In very severe cases, a reaction could affect your eyesight or cause long-lasting discomfort.
If this happened because the beauty technician did not follow proper safety steps, you could be entitled to compensation.
When Can You Claim Compensation for an Allergic Reaction?
Not every reaction leads to a claim. Sometimes allergies occur even when the beautician does everything correctly. But if your injury happened because someone was careless or failed to follow the correct procedure, you may be able to make a claim.
Under the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957, salons owe you a duty of care. This means they must take reasonable steps to keep you safe.
You may be able to claim if you can show three things:
1. The salon or beautician owed you a duty of care
This applies to all paying customers receiving a treatment.
2. They breached that duty
Examples of a breach include:
- Failing to carry out a patch test
- Using unsuitable products
- Applying the glue incorrectly
- Ignoring hygiene practices
- Not asking about your allergies
- Using expired or unsafe adhesive
- Rushing the procedure
3. You suffered an injury because of this breach
You must show that your allergic reaction, infection, or injury happened due to their negligence.
If these points apply to your situation, you may have a valid claim.
Examples of Negligence During Eyelash Extension Treatments
To help you understand what negligence might look like, here are common examples:
No Patch Test
A patch test is one of the easiest ways to prevent a reaction. It involves applying a small amount of adhesive to your skin or placing a few lashes beforehand. If a salon fails to do this and you suffer a reaction, this could support your claim.
Incorrect Application
If the beautician is untrained or careless, they might:
- Apply glue too close to the eye
- Let adhesive enter your eye
- Attach lashes improperly
- Use poor-quality tools
This can cause irritation, burns, or infection.
Poor Hygiene
Eyelash extensions require strict hygiene. Negligence can occur if:
- Tools are not cleaned
- Hands are not sanitised
- Work surfaces are dirty
- The technician double-dips adhesive
These issues can lead to serious infections.
Failure to Warn
A professional should explain:
- The risks of the procedure
- Possible side effects
- Aftercare instructions
If you were not properly informed, and you suffered an injury you were not warned about, this may count as negligence.
Other Injuries Caused by Eyelash Extensions
An allergic reaction is not the only harm you can experience. You may also suffer from:
- Chemical burns from the adhesive
- Temporary or permanent blurred vision
- Eyelash loss
- Eyelid swelling
- Skin blistering
- Bacterial infection
- Damage to natural lashes
If these injuries happened because the beautician failed to follow safe and reasonable steps, you may be able to claim compensation.
What Evidence Helps Prove Your Claim?
Evidence is important because it shows what happened and how it affected you. You can strengthen your case by collecting:
1. Photographs
Take clear pictures of:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Blistering or rash
- Any other visible injuries
Try to take the photos as soon as symptoms appear.
2. Medical Records
If you sought treatment, your doctor’s notes will confirm:
- The harm you suffered
- The severity
- Treatment given
- Future medical needs
3. Receipts or Booking Confirmation
This shows you received the treatment and paid for it.
4. Witness Details
If anyone saw the incident or the poor practice, their statements may help.
5. Email or Message Correspondence
Messages between you and the salon can act as evidence, especially if you reported the reaction to them.
6. Patch Test Records
If they failed to perform a patch test, this could strongly support your claim.
Collecting these items as soon as possible helps build a stronger case.
How Long Do You Have to Make a Claim?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the incident to start your claim. This is set out under the Limitation Act 1980.
There are two exceptions:
If the injured person is under 18
- They cannot claim themselves until they turn 18
- A parent or guardian can claim earlier as a litigation friend
- Once they turn 18, they have until their 21st birthday to claim
If the injured person lacks mental capacity
- The time limit is paused
- A litigation friend can claim on their behalf at any time
Even though you technically have three years, it is better to start early. Evidence is easier to collect soon after the incident.
How Much Compensation Could You Receive?
Compensation varies depending on:
- How severe your injuries are
- How long your symptoms last
- Whether your vision or skin is permanently affected
- Any psychological distress
- Any financial losses
The following table uses figures from the Judicial College Guidelines, commonly used by solicitors to value claims.
Compensation Guide for Eye and Facial Injuries
| Injury | Severity | Compensation Range | Notes |
| Total blindness | Severe | In the region of £327,000+ | Complete loss of sight |
| Loss of vision in one eye + reduced vision in the other | Severe | £117,000 – £219,000 | Significant long-term impact |
| Loss of sight in one eye | Serious | £60,000 – £67,000 | Cosmetic effect also considered |
| Serious but incomplete loss of vision | Moderate | £29,000 – £48,000 | Long-lasting symptoms |
| Minor but permanent impairment | Mild | £11,000 – £25,000 | Some lasting discomfort |
| Transient eye injuries | Temporary | £2,700 – £4,800 | Full recovery expected |
| Facial scarring | Trivial | £2,000 – £4,300 | Small or faint scars |
These figures are only guidelines. The amount you receive depends on your individual case.
Can You Claim for Financial Losses Too?
Yes. Compensation is divided into two categories:
1. General Damages
Covers your pain, suffering, and the impact on your daily life.
2. Special Damages
Covers financial losses such as:
- Lost earnings
- Prescription costs
- Travel expenses
- Private medical care
- Future loss of earnings
- Therapy or counselling costs
- Cost of replacing damaged lashes or products
Keep receipts, bank statements, or invoices as proof.
How to Strengthen Your Claim
You can make your claim easier and stronger by taking the following steps:
Seek medical help immediately
This protects your health and provides medical evidence.
Take photos as soon as the reaction starts
Photos taken early are more accurate.
Report the incident to the salon
Ask them to make a written record.
Keep all paperwork
Receipts, appointment confirmations, and instructions can help.
Write down what happened
Include dates, symptoms, and conversations.
Get legal advice if you feel unsure
A solicitor can explain your rights and assess whether your case is likely to succeed.
Final Thoughts: Understanding Your Rights After an Eyelash Extension Reaction
An allergic reaction to eyelash extensions can be painful, frightening, and upsetting. You may feel angry, anxious, or unsure about what to do next. It’s natural to want answers, especially if the reaction happened because someone did not follow the correct procedures.
The good news is that you have rights. If the salon failed in its duty of care and you suffered unnecessary harm, you may be able to claim compensation. This could help you cover your financial losses and support your recovery. More importantly, it acknowledges what you went through and holds the negligent party accountable.
By knowing the signs of negligence, understanding the time limits, and collecting the right evidence, you can take confident steps towards making a strong claim.
If you’re facing this situation, remember: you don’t have to go through it alone. There is help available, and you have every right to seek the compensation you deserve.