Are Eyelash Extensions Right For You?
Been thinking of ditching mascara for long, luxurious eyelash extensions?
Are Eyelash Extensions Right For You?
Here’s the scoop:
How do they do it? Eyelash extensions are individual lashes that a professional attaches to each of your existing lashes. The procedure usually takes one or two hours, and most salons make it less tedious and relaxing by offering music and massages.
How long do extensions last? In fact, eyelash extensions actually last a long time with proper care. Most salons recommend a touch up every three weeks, but extensions usually last for about 6-7 weeks. Just be really careful to not get water or oils on your extensions.
Yes, you can wear eye makeup, but liquids will damage your extensions, so use powder-based products and oil-free makeup removers carefully applied to the lids–not the lashes! Some people do use liquid eyeliner, being careful to not apply it right on the lash line. Completely stay away from mascara because it will definitely cause damage; some people use mascara only if they are getting new lashes in a few days.
What are they made of? The extension lashes are usually made of natural materials like silk and real mink, and some are even made from real human hair. There are also synthetic material choices like faux mink or fox. Honestly, there is little difference in how these all look, and the synthetic materials are the most reasonably priced.
Details, details: You can choose the length of your extensions in the range of 9 mm (a natural length) to 15 mm (really long and luscious). Lashes in the range of 10-12mm are the most popular. You can also pick your “curl”–a J-curl for a more natural look, and a C-curl for that dramatic look you get with an eyelash curler. Some people mix the two, using a J-curl on the inner lashes and a C-curl on the outer lashes to achieve a “cat eye” look.
Extensions can ruin your natural lashes, but this usually happens when a person decides to remove their own extensions. If you don’t know what you’re doing, the natural lash will come out too when you remove the extension. It is extremely painful, to say the least, and it can take two months for them to grow back. Always have professional removal, which is quick and painless and offered at every salon. Sometimes they will fall out naturally, too.
Some people do have allergic reactions to the adhesive used to attach the lashes, and may wake up the next day with swelling, redness, itching and burning. Reactions to the lashes themselves are far less common, as are reactions to the cleansers or primers used to apply the lashes.