Not all of us can boast thick, luxurious and flutterable eyelashes, so what can you do if you need extra length in the Lash Department? Well, long gone are the days of buying lengthening mascaras and hoping for the best – you won’t even have to glue your eye lids together with falsies, either!
*drum roll* I present to you, Lash-challenged Ladies: EYE LASH EXTENSIONS.
What Are They?
Much like hair extensions, eye lash extensions are long, individual lashes which are glued to your individual lashes, not to your eyelid. A full set typically includes anywhere from 30-80 lashes, because some people need more than others for a complete look.
What Are They Made Of?
The lashes are often made from synthetic materials, but more expensive mink lashes are available. While some prefer the mink for its softness, these lashes require some extra attention because when these lashes are wet, they become straight and need to be curled. It is also worth considering the ethical issues surrounding the use of mink fur. Lastly, as a natural product, there is a chance that those with allergies to animal fur may react to mink lashes.
A great, light-weight alternative might be faux-mink (high quality synthetics) or silk lashes, especially if you want to use extensions long-term. Heavier lashes can create a striking look, but the extra weight on your natural lashes might cause them to thin over time. There are new ‘volume 3D’ lashes on the market which allow technicians to apply several ultra-lightweight lash extensions to one individual lash.
There are always new extension designs and products being produced – ask your technician for the pros and cons of the lashes they offer in their range. Make sure you also ask your technician that the glue they use does not contain any harmful ingredients such as formaldehyde.
How Long Does It Take? How Long Do They Last?
Because the application of each extension is a meticulous process, you should allow up to two hours for a full set of lashes. These lashes will last for the natural lifecycle of your lash; when your natural lashes fall out, the extensions fall out with them. Generally, getting in-fills about every four weeks allows you to maintain a full look.
How Much Does It Cost?
It seems that, in Australia, a typical full set cost is about $125, and in-fills might cost anywhere from $60 to $100.
Who Does Eyelash Extensions?
Many beauticians specialise in lash extensions, Google will help you find a service near you. When you make your initial enquiries, ask them about their products, prices and training . Much like a new hairdresser, you want to be sure that your chosen technician is suitably qualified and that the products they use are safe and high quality. Ask them if they have some salon ‘before and after’ albums for you to browse, or ask for referrals from friends; word of mouth is often a good indicator.
What About Aftercare?
The awesome thing about eyelash extensions is that you can shower and get your face wet without fear. Your extensions will even keep you looking hot even when you’re doing your best Pamela Anderson at the beach. While you can wear eyeliner and eye shadow with your extensions, it is recommended that you steer clear of mascara because this can clump your eyelashes together. If you do wear eye makeup, make sure the remover you use is oil-free and that you do not rub your eyes enough to make your lashes fall out (because you’ll lose your extensions, too).
Caring for your lashes makes them last longer – avoid steam rooms/saunas and getting them wet for the first 24 hours after application, and give them a brush with your lash wand so keep them straight and clump-free.
What If I Want My Extensions Removed?
You need to go back to the salon to have these extensions removed carefully and professionally. Pulling at extensions will rip out your own eye lashes, so please DON’T DO IT. The salon will likely charge a small fee for the time taken to remove your extensions.
Can I Try This At Home?
Really, unless you are a trained beauty technician, please DO NOT TRY THIS AT HOME. There are all sorts of products readily available over the internet these days, but risking your eyesight is seriously not worth a saved buck or two. Investing in a set of extensions applied in a reputable salon is the best way to go.
Have you ever considered having eyelash extensions? If you have had them before, did you like them or loathe them?
Turn Your Passion into a Career
If you are interested in learning more about beauty therapy and salon management and possibly even starting your own business, then why not consider turning this passion into a career with the AIAS. The AIAS is a leading name in
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/05/17/lash-extensions-tips_n_3286927.html
http://www.sydneyeyelashextensions.com/
http://www.glamour.com/lipstick/blogs/girls-in-the-beauty-department/2012/07/the-dos-and-donts-of-eyelash-e.html
The post Give Me 50 Lashes – Eyelash Extensions appeared first on Stay at Home Mum - Survive and thrive on less!.