Eyelash extensions are a popular beauty trend that can enhance your natural lashes and give you a glamorous look. But before you book your appointment, there are some things you should know about this lash treatment. In this post, I’ll share some tips and tricks from lash experts and answer some frequently asked questions about eyelash extensions.
What are eyelash extensions and how do they work?
Eyelash extensions are thin fibers that are attached to your natural lashes using a semi-permanent adhesive. They come in different types, such as mink, silk, synthetic, human hair, or horsehair, and different curls, such as J, B, C, D, L, or U. The type and curl of the extensions depend on your preference, eye shape, and natural lash condition.
The application process is done by a licensed eyelash technician, who will isolate each natural lash and glue one or more extensions to it. The number of extensions applied depends on the desired look, from natural to dramatic. The whole process can take anywhere from one to three hours, depending on the number of lashes.
How long do eyelash extensions last and how do I maintain them?
Eyelash extensions can last from two to six weeks, depending on your natural lash cycle and how well you take care of them. To maintain them, you should avoid rubbing, pulling, or sleeping on your lashes, and use oil-free products around your eyes. You should also avoid getting them wet for the first 24 hours after the application, and avoid steam, sauna, or swimming for the first 48 hours.
To keep your lashes looking fresh and full, you should get a fill every two to four weeks, depending on how fast your natural lashes grow and shed. A fill is a touch-up session where the technician will remove any loose or grown-out extensions and replace them with new ones.
What are the benefits and risks of eyelash extensions?
Eyelash extensions have many benefits, such as:
- They can make your eyes look bigger, brighter, and more awake.
- They can save you time and money on mascara and other eye makeup products.
- They can boost your confidence and self-esteem.
However, eyelash extensions also have some risks, such as:
- They can cause allergic reactions, infections, or irritation to your eyes or eyelids.
- They can damage your natural lashes, making them thinner, weaker, or shorter.
- They can be expensive and time-consuming to maintain.
How do I choose the right eyelash technician and salon?
Choosing the right eyelash technician and salon is very important for the safety and quality of your eyelash extensions. Here are some tips to help you find the best one for you:
- Do your research. Look for online reviews, ratings, and testimonials from previous clients. Check the salon’s website, social media, and portfolio for pictures of their work and credentials.
- Ask for recommendations. Ask your friends, family, or coworkers who have eyelash extensions for referrals. They can give you honest feedback and advice based on their experience.
- Consult with the technician. Before you book your appointment, talk to the technician about your expectations, preferences, and concerns. Ask them about their training, certification, and experience. Ask them what type of extensions, adhesive, and tools they use. Ask them how they sanitize their equipment and follow safety protocols. Ask them for a patch test to see if you have any allergic reactions to the products they use.
- Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable, uneasy, or pressured by the technician or the salon, walk away. You should only get eyelash extensions from someone you trust and feel comfortable with.
What are some eyelash extensions tips and tricks for beginners?
If you are new to eyelash extensions, here are some tips and tricks to help you get the most out of them:
- Don’t spend too much time isolating the perfect lash. According to RM Lash Academy, you should isolate the lash within three seconds and move on to the next one. This will save you time and prevent your glue from drying out.
- Place eyepatches correctly. Eyepatches are used to protect your lower lashes and skin from the glue. Make sure they are placed close to the lash line, but not touching it, to avoid irritation or sticking. You can also use tape to secure them in place and prevent them from moving.
- Always use a map. A map is a guide that shows you what type and length of extensions to use on each section of the eye. This will help you create a balanced and symmetrical look that suits your client’s eye shape and preference. You can use a sticker, a pen, or an app to create your map.
- Use just the right amount of adhesive. Too much or too little glue can affect the retention and appearance of your extensions. Use a small drop of glue on a jade stone or a glue ring, and dip the extension about 1-2 mm into it. You should see a tiny bead of glue at the base of the extension, but not dripping or clumping.
- Don’t rush the pre-treatment stage. The pre-treatment stage is when you cleanse, prime, and prep your client’s lashes for the application. This is a crucial step that can make or break your results. Make sure you remove any dirt, oil, makeup, or residue from the lashes, and use a primer to balance the pH level and improve the bond. You can also use a lash shampoo, a microfiber brush, and a fan to ensure the lashes are clean and dry.
- Get those lashes pointing in the right direction. One of the most common mistakes that beginners make is applying the extensions in the wrong direction. This can make the lashes look messy, unnatural, or uncomfortable. To avoid this, you should use a lash mirror, a tweezer, and a lash comb to check the direction and alignment of the extensions. You should also use the right angle and distance when applying the extensions to the natural lashes.
- Avoid stickies. Stickies are when two or more lashes are glued together, either by accident or on purpose. Stickies can cause discomfort, pain, or damage to the natural lashes, and should be avoided at all costs. To prevent stickies, you should isolate each lash carefully, use the right amount of glue, and work in a systematic order. You should also check for stickies throughout the application and separate them gently with a tweezer or a floss pick.
- The ideal lash style will be different for every client. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to eyelash extensions. Each client has a different eye shape, natural lash condition, and personal preference. You should always consult with your client and customize the lash style to suit their needs and wants. You can use different techniques, such as hybrid, volume, or mega volume, to create different effects, such as cat eye, doll eye, or open eye.
- Educate your client on aftercare. Aftercare is essential for the longevity and health of the eyelash extensions. You should always inform your client on how to care for their lashes after the application, and provide them with an aftercare kit and instructions. Some of the basic aftercare tips are:
- Avoid getting the lashes wet for the first 24 hours, and avoid steam, sauna, or swimming for the first 48 hours.
- Avoid rubbing, pulling, or sleeping on the lashes, and use a silk or satin pillowcase to prevent friction.
- Avoid oil-based products, such as makeup remover, cleanser, or moisturizer, around the eyes, and use a lash-safe cleanser and brush to keep the lashes clean and fluffy.
- Avoid curling, tinting, or applying mascara to the lashes, and use a lash serum to nourish and strengthen the natural lashes.
- Avoid using eyelash curlers, tweezers, or scissors to remove the extensions, and visit a professional for a removal or a fill.
- Have fun and be creative. Eyelash extensions are a fun and creative way to express your personality and style. You can experiment with different colors, lengths, curls, and designs to create unique and stunning looks. You can also mix and match different types of extensions, such as classic, volume, or hybrid, to create different textures and densities. The possibilities are endless!
I hope you enjoyed this blog post and learned something new about eyelash extensions. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below.
By
Your Beauty Plug
