What are Eyelash Extensions?
Eyelash extensions are individual strands made to replicate a natural eyelash. When applied, eyelash extensions lengthen, darken and thicken your own natural lashes. The strands are applied to each individual eyelash, one by one. With proper application, lash extensions look and feel completely natural.
What are the Most Common Types of Eyelash Extensions?
There are two major categories: Classic and Volume. Classic is one extension per one natural lash. This works with what you have naturally so, if you don't have many lashes, you still wont have many eyelash extensions. For those with thin, sparse lashes or want lots of volume, Volume lashes are recommended. Each hand made fan is created by applying 3-6 lashes to a single natural lash.
Size availability (length) ranges from 6mm to 17 mm. There are also different weights. The lighter the extension, the easier it is on your lashes. I only carry a safe, natural-looking thickness that is light enough for even wimpy lashes. Once selected, the lashes are applied one at a time using specially formulated, semi-permanent glue.
Everyone has different lashes, and depending on the condition of your natural lashes, lash experts can only go a certain length or thickness. This is to ensure that your own lashes remain healthy. If your natural lashes are on the shorter, thinner side, you won’t be able to get the dramatic Kim Kardashian look., because it won’t last and can pull out your natural lashes prematurely.
How Long Does it Take to Apply and How Often are Touch-Ups?
Applying a full set of eyelashes takes about two hours. It is very tedious and takes time so please be aware that any studios offering less than 90 minutes is cutting corners, which means sloppy work or damaged lashes. Extensions can be maintained year round with tough-ups every 2-4 weeks. Unlike some salons, I don’t count eyelashes as we are not all created equal and choosing a high number of lashes may not be possible. I take 2 hours for a full set and approx 45 minutes for fills. I work until we have filled all your lashes or run out of time. If you need more time to get full lashes then you have waited too long between touch-ups and they should be more frequent.
What to Expect
You will lay comfortably on a massage table with your eyes closed while relaxing music is played in the background. Most people fall asleep during appointments. Please come in without eye makeup on to avoid using up your appointment time for cleansing lashes.
Can I Shower or Swim Right Away?
For the first 12-24 hours keep water and steam such as in saunas, facials or even from a hot shower away from your lashes. Water can weaken the adhesive before it is set and cause lashes to fall off. After that time period, the adhesive is secure enough to allow you to get back into your routine. Oil based products around the eye area is not recommended.
Why do I Lose Some of My Lashes?
Since each lash extension is attached to a single eyelash, they will fall out naturally along with the natural growth cycle of each lash. Everyone loses 6-20 lashes a week. When your natural lash sheds, you’re going to lose the extension with it.
Is it Okay to Wear Mascara?
Lash extensions are designed to give you length, thickness, and black lashes so mascara is not needed. However, if you do plan on using mascara, only apply to the tips of the extensions and with a very light hand, and buy water-based mascara. If you have chosen volume lashes then mascara is not recommended as it will clump your fluffy lashes together. Using water-proof mascara on the extensions is not recommended, as it is hard to remove and can actually pull off the lashes prematurely when trying to take it off.
Will My Natural Lashes get Harmed or Damaged?
The biggest myth is the eyelash extensions ruin your own lashes. They do not. If applied correctly, they are safe and do not ruin the health of your natural lashes. Be sure not to rub your eyes or tug or pull on the extensions because this can cause lash loss and even damage your natural lashes.
What if I Decide to Have Them Removed?
If you decide they are not for you I highly recommend coming in for removal appointment. It involves a short 20 minute appointment in which I apply a remover. This allows easy release of extensions without damaging natural lashes.
After Care~
Avoid getting lashes wet and avoid steam for the first 24-48 hours (this rule is for touch-ups too)
Do not perm eyelashes or use manual curler
Avoid oil based products around the eye area
No water-proof mascara
If you must use mascara, use a water based mascara
Do not pull on your lashes
Use water based eye make-up remover
HANDS OFF