All About Eyelash Extensions

I had always wanted to get lash extensions but was scared my real lashes would end up falling out. After thinking about it for more than a year I decided to try them out and take a chance. I mean, who doesn’t want to have full, long eyelashes that make you look like you’re all dolled up even when you don’t have any makeup on? That was always my motivation… I figured if I had lash extensions, I wouldn’t need to spend as much time getting ready for work in the morning. Not to mention, on the weekends if I’m lounging around or running errands, minimal effort would be needed to look presentable.  My first piece of advice before you get lash extensions is this: DO YOUR RESEARCH! I cannot stress the importance of this enough. Make sure you find a lash artist that has been thoroughly trained in the process, technique and sterilizes their tools.

Eyelash extensions are a semi-permanent option to thicker, fuller lashes. There are different lengths, curl types and fullness that you’ll want to consider. You’ll hear the words “classic” and “volume” from your lash artist. As a makeup artist, I view my craft as a form art. The same goes for hair stylists and lash artists. If your lash artist is a pro, they’ll know what will look great for your eye shape- this is not a one size fits all process. Unlike strip lashes that you apply and take off in the same day, lash extensions are applied one by one to your natural lashes, using medical grade glue and can last weeks with proper care.

If you hear of places that charge $25, run in the opposite direction! Lash extensions done by a reputable salon or person, can cost anywhere from $120-$375 depending on style you want. A fill will typically cost between $40-$80.

Proper Care

To get the best outcome and to extend the life of your lashes, you’ll want to take good care of them to protect your investment. Here are my tips for keeping your lashes looking fresh and fluffy until your next fill:

1. Do not get your lashes wet for the first 48 hours. Most salons recommend waiting 24 hours before getting your lashes wet, but you’ll get longer lasting results if you wait 48 hours (this will allow the glue to cure). I always wash my hair right before my appointment so that when I shower later in the day, I can avoid getting my face (and lashes) wet. This also means no swimming the first 48 hours.
2. Brush your lashes morning and night. Use a disposable mascara wand to re-shape the curl of your lashes. I keep a disposable mascara wand in my purse too, just in case I accidentally rub my eye and get my lashes stuck together.
3. Try to avoid sleeping on your stomach or the side of your face. This will cause you to flatten the lashes or perhaps cause a few lashes to fall out prematurely.
4. Do not use mascara on your lash extensions or apply a strip lash over them. The fact is, you won’t need to anyway because you’ll already have long, thick lashes. Using mascara or applying lash glue will shorten the life span of your eyelash extensions. Another product to avoid is anything oil based around your eyes. The oil can loosen the glue and once again, cause your lash extensions to fall out prematurely.    

I’m going to share with you the pros and cons from my personal experience but first, here are the before and after pictures from my most recent visit done by Becky at Lash Out Studio.

Even though lash eyelash extensions give the appearance of a more youthful and glamorous look, it does not come without a cost… literally!

Cons

Lash extensions can become expensive. Be prepared to spend upward of $100 for your initial set and you’ll need a fill every 2-3 weeks.

They can be time consuming. Getting your first set put on takes at least 2 hours to complete the work, while a fill will take approximately an hour.

Are you the type of person that likes to let the water hit your face for ten minutes while you’re in the shower? Well, you can forget about doing that as well as rubbing your eyes, not even when you’re washing your face. Because you need to be gentle with your lash extensions, that means no tugging or rubbing near your eyes.

Eyes are naturally sensitive and you’ll probably experience more frequent tearing or redness in the eyes. For me, that usually goes away after the first couple of days.

Pros

You won’t have a need for putting on eye makeup anymore! This could make up for the lost time you spend having the lash extensions put on. With lash extensions, you’ll look dolled up without having to put on eye shadow and you certainly won’t need to curl your lashes or use mascara. Lash extensions save me at least 20 minutes in the morning when I’m getting ready for work.

They’re great to have on if you’re traveling or going on vacation (unless you’re going somewhere humid). You’ll be able to spend more time sight seeing and touring because the time it takes to get ready will be cut by 20- 30 minutes.

Of course, eyelash extensions are not for everyone. As much as they may seem effortless, there is quite a bit of maintenance required. When I had mine put on the first time, I kept up with them for a few months and then got tired of the upkeep. I didn’t experience a loss of my natural eyelashes however, I did feel like my natural were much shorter. I suppose that is to be expected after having such long thick lashes for a few months and then no longer having them. Would you ever try them? Tell me your thoughts in the comments below.