Everything You Need to Know About Eyelash Extensions

Do you want to cut down your morning routine? Are you interested in having a baby deer lashes without dealing with coats of waterproof mascara? Then eyelash extensions are the best solution to your problem.

If you want to wake up having gorgeous, long, dark eyelashes each day, then you should try looking into eyelash extensions. However, before booking an appointment, you have to educate yourself on every aspect of these selfie-ready eyelashes. So, read on to know all about the details before confirming that appointment.

What to Know Before Making an Appointment?

What are eyelash extensions?

According to an expert eyelash stylist, Andra Marin, eyelash extensions refer to semi-permanent eyelashes that are affixed on top of your natural lashes. But don’t worry, it is less intense than it sounds. Since these eyelash extensions are attached individually, they can be customized to make them look real, unlike strip lashes.

Can eyelash extensions last longer?

If you take good care of them, then eyelash extensions can probably last for six to eight weeks. Afterward, they will fall off naturally, just like your normal eyelashes. But don’t worry, once they begin falling out, you can visit your eyelash stylist so they can fill in the missing pieces. So technically, yes, your eyelash extensions can last forever.

Can eyelash extensions destroy your natural eyelashes?

Actually no, since there is not enough evidence to show that eyelash extensions can affect the length or the health of your natural eyelashes. However, according to the assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine, Zaina Al-Mohtaseb, MD, there is a teeny-tiny risk that traction alopecia could develop. This happens when the natural eyelashes will fall out due to the consistent weight of repeated eyelash extensions. But you should not stress yourself on this since this is not a common phenomenon.

In fact, according to Marin, it usually takes years of improper care and bad application before any eyelash damage can happen. That is why we encourage you to choose only legitimate salons with good reviews. Also, make sure that the eyelash technician washes their hands before doing any application. They must also wear a mask, use disposable eyelash brushes, sterilize their tweezers, and use hygienic pillow covers. Always confirm with your technician if all of these precautions are being followed. Never feel awkward since this is for your safety.

Is it dangerous to have eyelash extensions?

Eyelash extensions are not dangerous if your eyelash technician followed the proper procedures and used the right materials. That is why you have to ask the salon about the ingredients of the adhesive that they use before heading to your appointment. If they refuse to answer your questions, then you should seriously consider canceling your appointment. You don’t want an inexperienced technician attaching things to your eyelids.

If they tell you that the glue includes formaldehyde, note that this can cause irritation, redness, and itchy, swollen eyelids, and you should cancel your appointment. While it may cost you a little bit more, it would be wise to select a salon that uses a glue that contains octyl cyanoacrylate and butyl cyanoacrylate, rather than formaldehyde since this is less dangerous on the eye area, according to Dr. Al-Mohtaseb.

How much is the cost for eyelash extensions?

Well, it will depend on where you are residing. For instance, if you live in New York, then a basic set which includes 70 to 80 eyelashes per eye will likely range between $100 to $400 and don’t forget the tip, which usually costs 20 percent of the cost of the service. Since eyelashes will grow and fall out over time, then you have to return for the fill-ins which will cost you between $50 to $165. However, this will depend on the new eyelashes that will be applied.

Take note that the longer it will take for you to go back for fill-ins, the more eyelashes you will need for its replacement, so the more it will cost you. Also, if you wait for too long, then the technician will probably recommend that you should get a brand-new set of eyelash extensions instead of fill-ins, which obviously will cost even more.

What Can You Expect at Your Appointment?

What is the size of your eyelash extensions?

You might want to get trendy and go for Kardashian-level lashes, however, there is a strong chance that your eyes won’t be able to handle them. According to Marin, the type of eyelashes that are appropriate for you will likely depend on the strength and length of your natural lashes.

Bear in mind that if you wear eyelashes that are extremely thick or are too long for your natural eyelashes, then they might cause some damage over time. That is why you need to ensure that your extensions are not thicker or too much longer compared to your natural eyelashes.

If this sounds too confusing for you then you don’t have to worry since a licensed eyelash technician will help you make the right decision for your lashes. They will also guide you in choosing the kind of materials that you should get, such as synthetic silk or synthetic mink. Keep in mind that mink is more expensive, but it looks more natural and feels softer. On the other hand, some synthetics can be customized so they can feel and look more natural, but they may cost as much or more than mink.

With regards to the curl, density, and length of your extensions, you might want to coordinate with your tech to find out which is the best option for you. An excellent eyelash technician will consider your bone structure, face shape, and natural eyelashes when deciding your eyelash look, according to eyelash expert, Clementina Richardson. In the meantime, you can prepare some questions which you might want to ask your specialist.

Is it okay to wear makeup during my eyelash extension appointment?

Absolutely not! It is recommended that you should show up to your appointment without any makeup and with clean skin. This means entirely no eyeliner, eyeshadow, or mascara. Anything that is placed on your eyelashes or eyelids could likely affect the outcome of your extensions. Hence, you must wash your face beforehand.

How to Take Care of Your Eyelash Extensions

Can I take a shower while wearing my eyelash extensions?

Yes, you can. However, you have to wait at least 24 hours after having your appointment. According to Marin, the time it will take for the eyelash adhesives to cure will vary, it usually takes between 12 to 24 hours, but this will depend on the type of glue that was used by your stylist.

Richardson also revealed that it is very important that you must be very gentle with your lashes. During this time, you must ensure that no water touches them. It is fine to take a shower provided that you do not get your eyelashes wet and never stay too long in the steam.

Can I put mascara on eyelash extensions?

Marin does not advise putting mascara on eyelash extensions. This is because when you try to remove them at the end of the day, it might damage the extensions due to the friction and makeup remover.

Richardson also says that when using eyeliner, cream-based formulas should be avoided. This is because they tend to include waxes and oils that can break down the lash glue.

Can I wash my eyes while having my eyelash extensions?

Richardson said that cleansers that are formulated for eyelash extensions should only be used. This is because other products might include ingredients that can make the bond of your lash extensions weaker and as a result, they might shed prematurely.

Also, if you are wearing eye makeup, then you should only use oil-free pads and be sure to wipe them downward instead of back and forth so your eyelids and eyelashes will get cleaned. No matter what you do, you must avoid tugging or rubbing your eyes.

Should I brush my lash extensions?

Sometimes your eyelashes can get tangled when you shower or sleep, so it is a must that you have to brush them gently with a clean spoolie brush after you shower, when you wake up, or at the end of the day. Also, to avoid any unnecessary tangling, simply sleep on your side or back, never on your stomach and try to use a silk pillowcase since they are gentler on extensions, as Richardson advised.

Conclusion

Ultimately, there are a lot of things that you need to think about before deciding to get eyelash extensions. If you think that you can manage the extra cost and maintenance that are required by the eyelash extensions, then you should find a specialist to get a consultation. On the other hand, it is fine to experiment with a pair of falsies before making any commitment.

Luxe Beauty offers different products and services that are related to eyelash extensions. For more information, just get in touch with us at (801) 898-8919 or send us an email at rsuyeyoshi@gmail.com.