These days, people are more into on-the-go options. If you are someone who’s not into “getting-ready-in-the-morning-person” but do love being presentable, going to the office or just going out with your friends, and want to have those long, gorgeous lashes give you a lovely look during dates without dealing with putting on mascara and the hassle of keeping lashes curled, then this topic is definitely for you!
This article will discuss what eyelash extensions are and the different types of lashes you can get. We will also give a few tips for getting the most out of your extensions. By the time you finish reading this article, you should know everything there is to know about eyelash extensions!
We’ll go over the different types of eyelash extensions and show how they compare to each other. We will also discuss eyelash extension pricing so you know what to expect when it comes to your appointment.
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What Are Eyelash Extensions?
Eyelash extensions are not a new concept. They were first invented in the 1950s and have been popular among celebrities for years, with high-profile names like Brooke Shields and Demi Moore as enthusiasts. But perhaps you’ve never heard of them or thought about getting them yourself.
Eyelash extensions are now trendy these days; they are a type of semi-permanent makeup. They last from 8–12 weeks and can be applied to create thicker, fuller, and luscious lashes. Unlike false lashes that you can buy at the nearest beauty store and put on yourself, eyelash extensions can be applied in a salon to make your natural eyelashes look fuller and longer. Lash extensions are artificial eyelashes—synthetic or silk strands of fibres—attached to your natural eyelashes using a formulated, non-irritating lash glue. In addition, since eyelash extensions are attached to your natural eyelashes, they will grow out naturally, which will create a space for customising based on the shape of your eyes. This is unlike with traditional false lashes that are glued only onto your skin, which will not give you the exact shape of lashes you want.
Eyelash extensions also differ from Lash Lift. A Lash Lift is a treatment that involves curling the natural lashes, enhancing the length and making you look like you are wearing mascara. This procedure infuses keratin and biotin, which gives strength to the curl. It can last from 6–8 weeks, depending on your aftercare and skin type. It is less maintenance since it doesn’t require infills, unlike lash extensions.
Different Types of Eyelash Extensions
There are generally three types of eyelash extensions: mink, silk, and synthetic. Each type typically lasts for six to eight weeks, but the duration depends on your natural lash cycle.
Mink Eyelashes
Mink eyelashes are a popular choice for celebrities like Beyoncé. What is so attractive about them? Well, they look very natural, and they are made from real hair! Mink Lash Extensions are ideal for anyone going for a more natural, light look.
Since they are made from natural hair, they have become notorious among women who opt to wear eyelash extensions.
Another aspect that distinguishes mink eyelashes is that they are light and feathery since they are made from natural hair, such as mink, hence they are generally more flexible than synthetic ones. Because mink eyelashes can be layered for a more dramatic look, but because they weigh down natural lashes less (because they are so thin), they can also last longer!
On the other hand, some professionals have switched to faux minks, which are cruelty-free lashes made from a good quality synthetic material; they are well-known as “soft lashes.” They are the perfect option if you want to have that natural yet lush look and be mindful of cruelty-free products.
Silk Eyelashes
The smooth texture of natural silk comes from the cocoon of a silkworm. Although silk eyelashes are synthetic, the look and feel is something that women associate with luxury.
Silk eyelash extensions are mid-weight lash extensions, and they are thin and more flexible than synthetic types. They offer a lighter weight, which for some people is better because they may have light or thin lashes. These types of lashes can last longer, just like synthetic lashes. Silk lashes are the perfect option if you are vegan and have an allergic reaction to a particular variety of fur. Silk lash extensions often have a fuller appearance. They grow thicker towards the bottom and gradually become thinner closer to the roots, giving the illusion of longer lashes.
Silk lashes tend to be natural-looking, too, because of the matte or natural black finish. Silk ends are not as tapered and pan out more than faux-mink does.
Synthetic Eyelashes
These extensions are made from a polished synthetic material and are the firmest of all. Synthetic lashes can hold their curl very well because of their firmness, but they don’t last very well on your natural lashes because they are durable. It also gives a feeling more prominent than mink or silk.
If you are looking for bolder and more dramatic looking lashes, you might consider synthetic eyelash extensions. They are not made from any real hair or fur, as their name implies, and they are much cheaper than other kinds of eyelash extensions.
Synthetic extensions tend to have the least amount of natural feeling than other types of lashes, so they are perfect for a special occasion when you want your eyes to jump out of the limelight.
Benefits of Eyelash Extensions
Before considering an appointment for your eyelash extension, it is best to know the benefits of having it other than giving you that extra look!
Eyelash extensions are definitely worth the money, but let’s keep in mind that they are not for everyone. It will be a cost of your time since you need to keep them looking good. There are also some guidelines you need to follow. So here’s the list of the benefits of eyelash extensions:
- Less hassle - of course, one of the reasons for getting an eyelash extension is the benefit of saving your time. Eyelash extensions are more than a mere vanity project for your eyes. For one, they will look great coming out of bed in the morning with minimal makeup on. Secondly, switching to extensions can save you time spent in front of mirrors applying mascara and eyeliner every day.
- Beauty - As some people may have difficulty in maintaining lifted their lashes (even if they do have naturally long eyelashes)
- Natural - having that glamorous look without putting on makeup is a winner! Eyelash extension will give you the benefit of having this look. They feel lightweight and natural than coating your lashes with a mascara that looks clumpy.
- Enhance your features - Eyelash extensions add volume to the natural lash line, lift the face, and make people appear more youthful. It's no secret that societal beauty standards applaud long, thick eyelashes, and with extensions, you can enhance your natural beauty without using makeup or other beauty products.
Risks of Getting Eyelash Extension
On the contrary, there are risks we need to look at carefully before opting for eyelash extension. As mentioned, it is better to research your questions or ask your beautician.
The main risks of eyelash extensions are swelling, irritation to the eyes or infection.
- Improper application - eyelash extensions can cause discomfort and infection, some may experience irritation after the treatment due to improper application, and some even say their eyes were glued shut!
- Unhygienic - before the procedure, your lash tech will ask you to come bare-faced to avoid any product around your eye area and lashes. If your lashes have dirt, there is a possibility of infection, which irritates the eyes.
- Skin Reaction - one of the important parts of the procedure is evaluation. Before the service, you need to advise your Lash Artist if you have an eye infection, sore eyes, recent eye surgery, and other eye-related conditions.
How Are Eyelash Extensions Applied?
Eyelash technicians will prepare the tools they need before you come into your appointment. These are the tweezers, cotton buds, non-irritating glue, eye gel patches and a disposable mascara wand. Before the eyelash extension procedure, eyelash technicians will ask you to remove all your eye makeup off. You can use micellar water or an eye makeup remover to take off your makeup to clean your eye area during the process.
Before we talk about the application process of the eyelash extension, let’s first look into the things you need to keep in mind before your appointment:
- It is recommended to come into the Eyelash Salon bare-faced. Avoid wearing mascara days before your appointment.
- Do not curl up your natural lashes at least 48-hour before your appointment.
- Avoid using oil-based products on your eye area or around your natural lashes within 24 hours.
- It is advisable to check up with your doctor to see if conditions might affect the procedure.
Here is the detailed general process:
- Evaluation - as mentioned above, the eyelash technician will first check your eyelashes to see what type of extensions fits you. They will screen you if you have any allergies or conditions that make the application unsafe for you.
- Tools Preparations - your eyelash technician will prepare the tools needed; eyelash extension adhesive glue or eyelash glue, two types of tweezers, lash tile, jade stone, mascara wand (or spoolie brush) and eye gel patches.
- Setting the Eye Gel Patches - your lash technician will put an eye gel patch under your eye to isolate your bottom lashes; the purpose is to avoid the lash glue. If there are bottom lashes creped up, then it will be glued on top lashes.
- Cleansing and Priming - Next step in the extension procedure is priming your lashes using a cotton tip. The product will roll onto your natural lashes. The purpose of priming is to take off the protein, oil on your lashes and make sure that makeup residues are taken off. This process allows the glue to adhere better to your natural lashes.
- Extension procedure - Two drops of lash glue onto the jade stone. The tweezer is used to do spacing out. Then, your lash artist will dip the end of an eyelash extension into glue; using tweezers, they will put the eyelash extension on the end of your natural lash. This process will go on one lash at a time. The procedure is not painful. However, it might be uncomfortable as you can feel anxious knowing that the tweezers are working closely to your eyes.
- Sealing the lashes - once the eyelash extensions are glued to your natural lashes, your lash artist will wave through your lashes to make sure that none of them is stuck.
- Removing Eye Gel Patches when your lashes are completely dry, your lash artist will remove the under-eye gels and adhesive tape (make sure to let them know if you have sensitive skin so they can use caution). They then generally brush through with a mascara wand. Once removed, you'll be asked to open and close slowly.
Who Can Apply Eyelash Extensions?
For everyone’s safety, Eyelash Technicians are the only ones approved to apply for eyelash extensions. They are specifically trained to apply for semi-permanent extensions, so they know the precautions and aftercare treatment. Professionals must apply for eyelash extensions with specialised training due to the possible risks of eyelash extensions. At the same time, these specialists require an excellent vision, steady hands and patience for applying each lash extension onto existing lashes.
When making your appointment, ask questions. Please find out about the ingredients in their glue and whether or not they have a sterilisation process for instruments. If your technicians can’t answer your questions or feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to stop the appointment. Lack of training can lead to being dangerous.
Cost of Eyelash Extension in Perth?
The cost may vary from Salon to Salon, from which city you live and may differ from what type of eyelash extensions will fit you. Generally speaking, if you’re considering getting eyelash extensions, a basic set of classic lashes could cost anywhere from $100-$150. For Hybrid lashes, the retail price range could be $120-$150. Now, if you prefer classic lashes with a more volume eyelash set ( Full Russian Volume), the retail price could be $150 -200-300. The more glamorous the lashes look, the higher the cost and time to consume applying them. Refills or infills cost around $50-150, depending on the number of lashes needed.
Among other types of eyelash extensions, mink lash extensions are usually the most expensive. (Not surprising! because real they are made from mink and are delicately manufactured)
How Long Does It Take?
The process took approximately an hour. You may allow 60-90 minutes for Natural and Classic sets, 90-120 minutes for Hybrid and 2D Double sets, not to mention 120-150 minutes for 3D Russian Volume sets. Furthermore, Infill Sets will require 45-100 minutes–depending on the number of infills–and will need to occur between 2 weeks or four weeks apart.
Unless you are going off of extensions, they will generally have to be refilled every 2-3-4 weeks to maintain the appearance. Since each lash is at a different stage in the average growth cycle, you’ll start to see a more scattered appearance after 2-3-4 weeks because new natural lashes come in, and some that had an extension attached begin to fall out.
How to Take Care of Eyelash Extensions
This is one of the most common questions, and it’s hard to answer. Depending on your lifestyle and how you take care of them, eyelash extensions can easily last anywhere from three weeks up to two months! Aftercare involves a few things to remember. You might want to follow these guidelines to keep your eyelash extension worthy and long-lasting!
- Keep them dry - you need to keep your lashes dry and away from the heat within 24-48 hours after the procedure. If you are putting on any makeup, you must avoid oil-based products (cleansers, eye makeup remover, micellar water, creams, etc.) Curling your eyelash extension is not a good idea! It can damage the material and will be caused them to cycle off early than it should be.
- Pulling them off is not a good idea - I know that pulling might be tempting at this moment, but keep in mind that you must avoid touching, pulling, or rubbing your lashes.
- Clean -Eyelash extensions need daily maintenance. Daily cleaning of your eyelash extension is a must! Using a cotton tip, gently wipe across your eyelids. Please avoid rubbing down on the extensions. You can look for lash extension-friendly for removing your makeup. These are commonly oil-free lash products.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes we already talked about this. Just remember to pat your eyes when drying gently.
- Most professionals will not recommend wearing mascara since removing it will be a huge hassle for you, plus the damage it brings. On the other hand, if you need to wear mascara, seek a bit of advice from your lash technician first.
- Curl Up - extensions come with their curl. Let your technician know-how curly you want them, and we can customise them to your needs.
- Skincare - everyday products have oil ingredients, like eye cream, which is not suitable for your eyelash extensions, so you might need to adjust your skincare routine.
- Aftercare during summer -extensions may not last as long because hair and lashes overgrow in the summer. Consequently, you're likely to need a little more upkeep than you do during winter months when coats are thicker, and there is less oil from skin sitting on your eyelashes.
Now let’s discuss what the products are (makeup and skincare) that are only allowed and why do oil ingredient is not suitable for extensions:
Eyelash Extensions HATES oil.
When you expose your eyelash extensions to oil, the semi-permanent glue holding them in place begins to lose its grip. Oils will usually end up wearing down your lashes no matter how careful you are when applying cosmetics for the day. Next time you’ll wake up with a bunch of lashes on your pillow after an oil-based skincare routine, you don’t want this tragedy!
The Magic of Castor Oil
Castor oil has no scientific study that proves it helps eyelash hair grow. The fatty acids present in castor oil have been touted to promote hair growth. If you regularly apply castor oil on your bare lash and decide to try extensions, you must let the salon know before your appointment. This routine may only be an excellent try to use this for your NATURAL lashes. Ensure to read the label first to see whether it has other types of oil blended into it. It is said to damage the natural ingredients of castor oil if combined with different kinds of oil.
Check the ingredients
Before buying beauty products, read the ingredients list. We recommend this for every product you buy, as there are many ways that extra ingredients can sneak into a product. Any oil (e.g., rosehip, sunflower, jojoba, argan) on the list relegates it to the topical oil category; other oil-related words are like glycerin, petrolatum and mineral oils. Unless your skincare product is not near your face, there is no problem!
FAQs about Eyelash Extension
Does eyelash extension ruin your natural lashes?
Some may say that there isn’t enough evidence to say whether eyelash extensions affect your natural lash length or health. The most common problem faced by women who wear it is the possibility of getting a long-term risk of developing traction alopecia, which causes the lashes to fall out due to the weight they bear from having a constant extension applied.
But really, the truth is that eyelash extensions can cause your natural lashes to fall out mainly if they were improperly applied to your natural lashes or if it’s not the right size for you. In turn, your natural lashes may not look so great for a few weeks after your eyelash extensions start to fall out or if you decide not to get them again. The best way to preserve your beauty is by seeing a professional salon with a high-quality reputation for the best results.
How long do eyelash extensions last?
Like your hair, eyelashes are subject to constantly growing and shedding. A new natural lash cycle is about to begin for some lashes, while others are at the peak of their growth cycle (this is true whether or not you have eyelash extensions).
Eyelash extensions are applied to individual lashes, which take up to a month to fall out on their own.
Since extensions are only applied to individual lashes, the extension will fall out when those lashes are shed from a place. If you don’t touch your eyes or rub your eyes, apply mascara daily, or have oily eye products through contact with the glue, these extensions should last up to four weeks within their full-service appointment.
It is recommended to avoid a shower or steam for a minimum of 4 hours following eyelash extension service. For the first three days, do not go to saunas or steam rooms. By avoiding such will all contribute to a longer life of your lash extensions.
Can you put mascara on lash extensions?
Most professionals do not require using mascara with lash extensions. Because the product will minimise the life of your eyelash extensions, removing mascara will become a hassle at the end of the day. Your extensions could be damaged or pulled out of your natural lash line from excessive contact with the makeup remover. If you have to wear mascara, you can ask your lash artist what product you can use.
How do you shower with eyelash extensions?
You can shower normally with eyelash extensions, but you should avoid rubbing your lashes and make sure not to get the water directly on them. Avoid showering for 48 hours after getting new extensions to keep them dry.
Are eyelash extensions worth it?
Yes! Getting eyelash extensions are definitely worth trying; as mentioned above, there are a lot of benefits. It is time-efficient, you do not need to put on that much makeup during regular days, yet it still gives you fabulous and dramatic eyes. Some celebrities said that having an eyelash extension can be addicting! Well, it’s understandable; imagine having those fuller eyelashes yet natural-looking and getting a terrific compliment on the reg.
But in honest opinion, eyelash extensions are not for everyone. One of the most important to look at is the cost of money. Since they need to be maintained, it can be costly. It may be worth it to look at your budget and see how much you want to spend. If money is not an issue for you, or if they are a once-in-a-while type of thing, then go ahead! But if it’s just something that will be done every day – maybe try mascara first to see the difference for yourself.
How do you sleep with eyelash extensions?
This is interesting as part of your aftercare routine. Lash artist will advise you to sleep on your side or back to avoid rubbing your lashes against the pillow. This is very important to avoid immediate fallout and breakage.
Another tip is brushing your eyelash extension with a spoolie brush (disposable mascara wand) after you wake up and shower.
Can you wear fake lashes on top of eyelash extensions?
It might be tempting to try on false eyelashes (or also called strip lashes) on the top of your eyelash extensions, and they might make your lashes look more fabulous for a special event. But it could seriously damage your last extensions and natural lashes, which can last for weeks!
False lashes applied over your lash extensions will weigh down the false eyelash and will make your lashes look clumpy! It will also ruin your natural lashes because the glue used for false lashes is different from the lash adhesive used for lash extensions. Imagine if you combine these two, it will get stuck on your eyelashes that will be really difficult to remove!
Furthermore, false lashes increase the weight on your eyelashes which are also not beneficial for your eyes and will eventually fall out of the eyelash extensions. If you still desire the strip-lash look, you may ask your lash stylist for some recommendations. They would love to help you work out some changes if you have a special event you need to attend.
Final Thoughts
There are a lot of things to consider before you jump into getting those envious lash extensions. All in all, it is better to do your research for better results and your safety.
Here are some notes you can carry with you:
- Semi-permanent eyelash extensions are lashes that last a long time, unlike regular false eyelashes. You can use them and not worry about putting on mascara, which is another thing to do in the morning.
- The upkeep of eyelash extensions can be quite time consuming; think about the aftercare guidelines. And they can be expensive to maintain.
- You have to make sure that you allow a licenced lash clinician in a clean environment to apply your lashes.