What are Eyelash Extensions?
Eyelash extensions are semi-permanent lashes that are hand-glued on top of your natural lashes.
Lash extensions are glued on individually, unlike strip lashes, they’re super customizable and look really close to the real lashes.
If you actually take care of them (more on that later), eyelash extensions can last for four to six weeks until they naturally fall out like your lashes usually do. Once they start falling out, though, you can go back and have your lash stylist fill in the missing pieces.
Do eyelash extensions ruin your natural lashes?
Not really—there isn’t a ton of evidence that shows whether eyelash extensions actually affect your natural lash length or health long-term. There is, however, a teeny-tiny risk of developing traction alopecia, says Zaina Al-Mohtaseb, MD, assistant professor of ophthalmology at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, which is where your natural lashes can fall out as a result of the constant weight of repeated eyelash extensions. But don’t stress—this isn’t common.
“It usually takes years of bad application and improper care for long-term lash damage to happen as a result,” says Marin. So please, only go to legit, well-reviewed salons (no matter how good that Groupon deal is). Oh, and make sure your technician washes their hands between clients, wears a mask, uses sanitary pillow covers, sterilizes their tweezers, and uses disposable eyelash brushes. And don’t feel awkward asking your technician to confirm that all of these precautions are being taken.
How do you know what size eyelash extensions to get?
You might want Kardashian-level lashes, but that doesn’t mean your eyes can handle them. “The type of lashes you can get all depends on the length and strength of your natural lashes,” says Marin. “Wearing lashes that are too long or too thick for your lashes can actually cause damage in the long run, so you need to make sure your extensions aren’t too much longer or thicker than your natural lashes.”
If all that sounds confusing, don’t worry—a licensed lash specialist will help you make the best decision for your lashes, including what type of material you should get, like synthetic mink or synthetic silk. Mink is usually pricier, feels softer, and looks more natural; however, some synthetics, which are highly customizable, can also look and feel natural and end up costing as much as or more than mink.
When it comes to density, curl, and length of your extensions, you’ll want to work with your tech to figure out which is the best option for you. “A good lash technician will take your face shape, bone structure, and natural lashes into consideration when helping you decide on a lash look,” says Clementina Richardson, lash expert and founder of Envious Lashes in NYC.
Can you wash your eyes with eyelash extensions?
Only use cleansers specifically formulated to be safe for eyelash extensions, says Richardson. Other products may contain ingredients that can weaken the bond of your lash extensions and cause them to shed prematurely. And if you’re wearing eye makeup, use oil-free pads and gently swipe downward, rather than back and forth, to get your lids and lashes clean. And whatever you do, avoid rubbing or tugging at your eyes.
Can you put mascara on eyelash extensions?
Marin doesn’t recommend using mascara with lash extensions. Why? Because when you attempt to take it off at the end of the day, you can actually cause your extensions to break from the friction and makeup remover. As for eyeliner, “avoid using cream-based formulas,” says Richardson. “They often contain oils and waxes that can break down lash glue.”
Can I shower with my eyelash extensions?
You can, but not until you’ve waited at least 24 hours after your appointment. “Eyelash adhesives vary in the time they take to cure, from either 12 to 24 hours depending on what glue your stylist uses,” says Marin. It’s super important that you’re gentle with your lashes and makes sure that no water touches them during this time, says Richardson. You can shower after getting lashes as long as you don’t get the lashes wet and don’t stay in the steam for too long.
Can I wear makeup to my eyelash extension appointment?
Nope. You’ll want to show up to your appointment with clean skin and no eye makeup. That means absolutely no eyeshadow, eyeliner, and/or mascara. Anything on your lids or lashes could affect how your extensions turn out, so definitely make sure to wash your face beforehand.
Reference:
Extracted and modified from https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a3915095/eyelash-extensions-for-beginners/