Eyelash extensions are continuing to gain popularity. These nifty beauty enhancements can make your eyes look glamorous – without eye makeup – so it’s no wonder people are getting hooked! But before you take a deep dive into the world of lash extensions, here’s what you need to know.
What Are Lash Extensions Made Of?
Lash extensions come in a variety of materials, including mink, sable, faux mink, silk, cashmere, and synthetic acrylic. To most beauty specialists, it’s more important that the extensions flow with the natural curvature of your original lashes to shape your face properly.
How Long Do Lash Extensions Last?
The #1 rule for achieving long-lasting lash extensions is to take care of them. Typically, professional semipermanent glued-on lashes can last up to eight weeks. Over time, they will naturally fall out. The good news is that once these beauties begin to fall out, you can head back to your stylist to fill them in, which is about every three weeks.
Are Eyelash Extensions Safe?
If you book an appointment with a certified, experienced technician, you should have no problem. However, there are some potential complications to keep in mind. For example, clumping and breakage can occur if the lashes are not correctly applied. Because lashes grow at different rates, your technician should glue a single lash extension to one natural lash, not multiple. Having two or more natural lashes glued to a single lash extension may lead to premature pulling of the natural lashes.
Another potential side effect is an allergic reaction to one or more ingredients in the fiber material or glue. If you know you have a known allergy, tell your technician in advance. If you have sensitive skin, ingredients like collagen, aloe, and hyaluronic acid in the gel patches may also cause irritation. Permanent loss of the natural lashes may occur in severe cases.
Can You Wear Mascara With Eyelash Extensions?
To be honest, you may not even need mascara with your eyelash extensions! But, it’s also not recommended. Why? Because at the end of the day, you have to take that mascara off. The combination of makeup-removing products and friction can lead to breakage. If you do wear eye makeup, avoid formulas containing oil or wax, as they may affect the extension adhesive. Instead, look for water-based options designed specifically for use on extensions.
Aftercare
Avoid getting your extensions wet for at least 24-48 hours after application, as water can weaken the glue holding the fake and natural lashes together. You should also avoid using cotton pads or swabs, as they can tug on the extensions and pull them from your natural lashes. You’ll also want to refrain from sleeping on your stomach or side and possibly invest in a silk or satin pillowcase. Also, consider purchasing an oil-free lash cleanser to apply daily and a nightly application topcoat for extra protection.
What About At-Home Eyelash Extensions?
Store-bought lashes are created for temporary application, meaning that you can wear them once or twice before you have to throw them away. Ultimately, professional eyelash extensions will be pricier, but they will outlast any store-bought brand – as long as you’re willing to properly take care of them!