A bride-to-be’s attempt to achieve the perfect look ahead of her wedding turned into a terrifying ordeal after an $88 eyelash extension treatment allegedly left her temporarily unable to see.

Polly Bibby, a 26-year-old illustrator, decided to try classic eyelash extensions as part of her preparations for her big day. She reportedly underwent a patch test beforehand and experienced no immediate reaction, giving her the confidence to proceed with the treatment in early July.

Initially, Bibby was delighted with the results. But within several hours, her excitement reportedly turned to fear as her eyes became watery, painful and increasingly red.

The situation worsened dramatically when her eyes began stinging and sticking together because of a yellow discharge. Bibby said the burning became so severe that at one point she could not see, prompting her to seek urgent medical attention.

She was treated at Hinchingbrooke Hospital in Cambridgeshire, England, where medical staff reportedly determined that she had suffered an allergic reaction associated with the eyelash extensions.

Bibby was given antibiotics and antihistamines and advised to allow the swelling to settle before having the extensions removed. The removal itself reportedly became another painful ordeal, with Bibby describing an intense burning sensation as the lashes came off.

The frightening experience was particularly emotional because the treatment had been intended to help her feel glamorous and confident for one of the biggest days of her life.

Bibby has since warned other brides about experimenting with unfamiliar beauty treatments too close to major events, stressing that even her earlier patch test did not predict the reaction she later experienced.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology says eyelash extensions can cause complications including allergic reactions to glue, infections, redness and swelling, while severe reactions can temporarily interfere with vision. It recommends using an experienced professional in a sanitary environment and seeking medical attention when a serious reaction develops.

What was supposed to be a simple $88 beauty transformation became a frightening reminder that cosmetic treatments around the eyes can sometimes carry unexpected risks.