Lash extensions are all the recent rage with celebs like Kim Kardashian, Katy Perry, and Beyonce rocking the trend. I’ve been getting extensions for about seven months, and within this time, I have been able to answer the question of just why lashes are so popular and whether or not they are even worth it.
So. Many. Styles.
Choosing the style of lashes is one of the trickiest parts of the whole process with volume options like natural, hybrid, volume, and even Russian volume. Natural extensions look just how they sound – natural. The lash artist will attach a single extension to each individual real eyelash, as opposed to hybrid lashes that include 2-3 extensions in a fan, which is attached to an individual real eyelash, creating a more dramatic, yet subtle, look. Volume lashes, on the other hand, include 4-5 extensions in a fan, and Russian volume lashes include up to six extensions in a fan.
There are also different curl options, including J, B, C, CC, D, and even more. Some curls will make your lashes appear downward-facing, straight, slight curl, or extreme curl.
There are many more factors that go into choosing the right style for you. I personally get hybrid lashes with a D curl and a cat-eye design, but everyone is different. A design that looks fantastic on someone, may not be right for you, so consult with your lash esthetician to find your best option. My advice for someone who is getting extensions for the first time is to start natural, and gradually build the volume as you become more comfortable with your extensions! The Application Process
Your appointment starts before you even step foot into the salon. Prior to your appointment, one should avoid caffeine as it causes “jitters” making it difficult for the lash artist to work. One should also arrive with a clean face and without any eye makeup. If you have any questions, definitely contact your salon as to arrive prepared.
The overall application process is very soothing with appointment times averaging anywhere from one hour to two and a half hours. Clients are encouraged to relax and even take a nap! One should feel no tugging sensation at all, and if you are ever uncomfortable, it is always best to inform the esthetician.
How Expensive are They?
The question I receive most frequently is “how much do your extensions cost?” and yes, extensions are expensive. A set can begin anywhere from $150 and upward to even $300 with the price increasing along with the volume. If you wish to continue having extensions, refills are required every 2-3 weeks, which can cost anywhere from $70 to $150.
Eyelash extensions are an investment but don’t go on Yelp and go to the cheapest salon you can find. If you are going to get extensions, be prepared to pay a lot. The quality of the work is more important than saving some cash and definitely do your research before committing to an artist. So Now That You Have Extensions
Now comes the fun part! You get to show your new lashes off to the world! Avoid getting your lashes wet for the first 24 hours prior to your appointment, but this does not mean that you should avoid water forever. Clean your lashes frequently, especially if you wear a lot of eye makeup or sweat a lot, in order to prevent dirt buildup and even an infection. Use baby shampoo, rub it between your fingers until it gets really “bubbly,” then use your ring finger to clean your lashes. You can even invest in a special brush if you wish! Oil-based products like sunscreens, lotions, and serums should also be avoided in order to not loosen the adhesive. Brush your lashes at least twice a day in order to prevent tangling and sticking. Pro tip – invest in eyelash wands, and keep them in convenient places such as your car, bathroom, desk, and purse.
My Overall Thoughts
Although eyelash extensions are expensive and require a lot of upkeep, I 100% am a supporter! If you are contemplating whether or not you should get extensions, I would say to go for it. Eyelash extensions are not some lifetime commitment. Get it once, and if you don’t like them, you do not need to maintain them. You can either wait for them to naturally fall out, or you can get them removed by an artist. So to answer my initial questions of why extensions are so popular and whether or not they are worth it, I believe that extensions are popular because they give you that extra boost of confidence while going through life. Being able to wake up every morning without needing mascara or falsies is such a relief and time saver, so yes – lash extensions are definitely worth the hype. Do what makes you feel like a boss, and if it’s eyelash extensions that do just that, don’t let anything hold you back from going after it!