LASH EXTENSIONS 101
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT EYELASH EXTENSIONS
You're interested in getting eyelash extensions because you've seen them around and decided to find out what the fuss is about. You don't know where to start or what to look for, so you go somewhere cheap or at your local nail salon. You get the worst eye infection ever, and now you can't wear makeup for a couple of weeks. You completely regret ever getting extensions in the first place.
This is to help you avoid all that and guide you in the right direction of the eyelash extensions world.
What are lash extensions, and what are their benefits?
When an extension of hair is glued on each natural lash to make them look longer and fuller
Aesthetic - subtly enhanced facial features
Convenience - saves you time and money on makeup
Higher self-esteem - Ego, confidence, and self-esteem boost naturally
What are they made of?
All synthetic lashes are made with a plastic fiber called PBT, Polybutylene Terephthalate. PBT is a thermoplastic semi-crystalline polymer and a type of polyester that is heated and molded into the desired lash shape, which sets as it cools.
Silk and Mink are made up of the same material, PBT. Now, just like any material, PBT fibers have different quality grades. One usually has more of a taper, ⅔ which creates a lighter and softer feel, and the other, having usually ⅓ of a taper, creates a more profound, bolder look that holds a stronger curl. Some fibers may have a shiny gloss, while others have a dull, matte finish. Either way, at the end of the day, a synthetic lash, whether it is named "SILK" or "MINK", is the same exact material; what changes is one is shiny (typically silk) and the other one is more matte.
ARE ANIMALS HARMED?
Mink hair is rarely used to create eyelash extensions. There used to be a time when they were the most expensive in the market, which created a demand for them and, naturally, also a lot of critique in the industry because of this. But now it is very rare to find lash techs using real mink for lash extensions as it is harder to find, can cause allergic reactions, loses its curl quicker, and, of course, is inhumane.
What types of lash extension styles are there?
There are two main types of lash extension styles: classic and volume
Classics are when one lash extension is glued to the natural lash, and volume is when two or more extensions are glued to the natural lash, making them look more voluminous and full.
You can also get different looks depending on the curls and lengths used!
A mix of both styles creates a mixed or hybrid set! It is the best of both worlds as it is natural enough for everyday use yet voluminous to change how you look completely.
How much do they cost?
Prices for beginner lash artists can start at $45 and reach over $500 for celebrity lash artists.
The prices typically reflect the lash artist's experience and the quality of the items used. When eyelash technicians start, they generally price themselves low in the market to gain more customers and experience. They raise their prices as they gain more knowledge and get booked out.
We suggest getting the best you can afford. If you want high quality at a good value, then expect to pay at least $100 for classic and $150 for volume. Prices are lower in the countryside than in a big city and keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Be wary of anything under $60 unless it is for a one-time thing, as the lashes could be too heavy or incorrectly placed.
How long do they last?
3 - 6 weeks
But refills are recommended every 2 - 4 weeks to keep them looking full as they shed naturally.
What are the risks?
Allergies, blepharitis, pre-mature lash loss, and lash thinning if placed improperly.
What is the maintenance like?
Refill appointments are needed every couple of weeks, lasting around 1 hour to remove the grown-out extensions and apply fresh ones.
Typically, no water for 24 hours, sauna, heavy exercise, excessive heat or steam
No tugging or pulling on the lashes
No eyelash curlers
No mascara or additional falsies
After a month or two, you may not cut or pull the last remaining lashes; you must have them removed professionally.
What to look for when researching lash salons?
Photos—Make sure that their photos are clear and as unedited as possible. Check to see if the lighting is consistent. Feel free to run them through a reverse image search to see if the photo was stolen from somewhere else.
Professional website - Check that they have a website with all the information needed to contact them, a location address unless they work from home, and photos of their work. Not all lash artists have a website, as this incurs an extra cost, but it is nice to know if they do, as it means they invested in their business and plan to be around for a long time.
Reviews - Check on Google or Facebook for any reviews about the place. This can give you an idea of how good they are or what to expect.
Social media channels - Check social media channels to see if their work is up to par with what you'd like. See if they post regularly to see if they are even working at that time.
Is it worth it?
Of course! It's definitely worth trying it at least once in your life so you can feel beautiful for weeks! Your self-esteem is instantly boosted, men look at you like you're hiding some deep, dark secret, and you look instantly put together, so you save time in the mornings! Just be sure to go to a reputable place, especially if it's your first time. It's like getting fillers done; you wouldn't want to go to the cheapest place and expect high-quality work.
To better prepare for your first appointment, check out our video on the topic. In it, we tell you steps you can take even before your appointment to help your lashes last longer!