What Are Eyelash Extensions?
Eyelash extensions are a semi-permanent eyelash enhancing service. Semi-permanent being the key because you lose 3-5 natural lashes a day. With classic eyelash extensions, one extension is applied to one natural lash. When your natural lash is ready to shed out of the follicle, if there is an extension applied to it, the both of them will shed out together. In turn, a new lash will grow from the root and a new extension will be applied during a fill.
What is the application procedure like?
The application process is very calming and relaxing. Many clients fall asleep for the duration of the treatment. Upon arriving, you will lay on a plush bed with a neck supporting pillow under your head. A foam pad will be placed under your eye, on top of the lower lashes to separate the lids.
You will then close your eyes for the duration of the service while the stylist alternates application between the eyes. Upon completion of the service the stylist will apply a product to the lash line that reinforces the bond of the glue, and then she will fan your lashes for 30-60 seconds.
The average time for the adhesive to dry is only 1-4 seconds, but we fan the lashes to ensure all the glue is completely dry before you leave. The pads will then be removed and you may open your eyes to reveal beautiful, luscious lashes!
How long does it take to apply lash extensions?
If you are scheduled for a full set (you’ve never had eyelash extensions before or you currently do not have them) the appointment will be booked out for 120 minutes, or 2 hours. Our technician blocks out time to do a short consultation about the style and look you want, as well as time to check you out and turn the room after the service.
Lash fills take anywhere from 30 minutes to 90 minutes depending on how long you have waited between fills.
How often should I get a fill?
We recommend coming in for a fill every 2-3 weeks, depending on the fullness you want to keep the lashes at. The majority of our clients come every 2 weeks, but many also come weekly, and others come every 3 weeks. If you take proper care of your lashes, coming every 3 weeks is no problem. If you are more particular about the fullness of the lash, it would be best to come every 2 weeks, or even weekly. The longer between fills, the longer the scheduled appointment.
Do I have to do anything to prepare for the service?
Please arrive eye make-up free on the day of your service. If you wear contacts, please bring your contact case and solution, or wear glasses the day of the service. If you are planning on having your eyelashes tinted, please wait 48 hours between tinting on any full set or fill service.
I wear contacts. Can I still get lash extensions?
Yes. We do ask that you remove the contacts during the service as a precautionary measure. Please bring your contact case and solution to remove them before the start of the service, or wear your glasses the day of.
Can I use Eyelash Curlers with Eyelash Extensions?
NO! You run the risk of damaging the eyelash extensions if you crimp them. If you desire a look where your lashes look more curled, we will choose a curl that will meet that requirement. If your lashes are not suited for the curl you desire, you may use a HEATED eyelash curler to curl the lashes.
How do I take care of my new Eyelash Extensions?
Do not get the lashes wet for the first 24 hours. The glue needs proper time to bond to the lashes.
Avoid all oil based products on or around the eyes. It will break down the glue.
Clean the lashes properly, daily.
Do not pick, tug, or pull on the lashes
Do not rub your eyes
Only use water-based mascara (if you must), and apply from the middle to tip.
If you are a face pillow-sleeper, we advise investing in silk pillowcases
Try to avoid sleeping face down on your pillow altogether
Excessive use of the sauna may cause the glue to break down. We supply a product that will help avoid this if you need.
Do not perm your lashes
Do not curl your lashes with a mechanical eyelash curler
Do LIE and say they are yours!
Why is proper cleansing of the lashes so important?
Eye infections occur when harmful microorganisms invade any part of the eyeball or its surroundings. Microorganisms include bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Some common eye infections or disorders are listed below.
Conjunctivitis or “pink eye” is an infection in the eye that causes inflammation of the conjunctiva, which gives the eye red or pink color.
Allergic conjunctivitis is when exposure to allergens, like mold spores or polled, cause your eyes to become watery, red, and itchy.
Corneal abrasion is a minor scratch to the eye’s cornea. It can be caused by dust, contact lenses, or other foreign objects and can sometimes develop into serious eye conditions.
Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelash follicles. Its cause is unclear, but allergies, mites, dandruff, and certain medications may increase the likelihood of this inflammation.
Dry eye occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears. It can be caused by environmental factors, dry eye syndrome, or some medications.
Glaucoma refers to a number of diseases that damage the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss. It is usually caused by abnormally high pressure inside the eye.
Stye or hordeolum is a red, painful bump or inflamed area on the eyelid. It’s typically caused by bacterial infection of the sebaceous glands at the base of the eyelashes.
Scleritis is a severe inflammation of the sclera, the eye’s outer protective layer. It usually causes pain and can sometimes cause vision loss.
Demodex or Eye mites are tiny bugs that are described as a parasite. They are found in the pores and follicles of the eyelashes. They have short legs, claws, and mouthparts and can cause infection and inflammation.
This is why proper cleansing is so important.
Is the product FDA approved?
The FDA is not currently regulating eyelash extensions. Eyelash extensions are applied only to the natural lash and do not touch the skin.
Can I apply mascara to Eyelash Extensions?
We do not recommend that you apply mascara to the eyelash extensions. However, if you wish to do so, you may. Most clients choose eyelash extensions to avoid mascara altogether, and that is the goal we have in mind for you. We would recommend you use a mascara safe for eyelash extensions and avoid a mascara that is waterproof. You may break down the glue and cause your extensions to shed off more quickly than normal.
Can I swim, shower, exercise, or visit the spa while wearing eyelash extensions?
Absolutely! Eyelash extensions are intended to simplify your life, and beautify your lashes. You may do all the normal activities you do. If you are a frequent goer of the sauna, or bikram yoga, you may experience a heavier shedding of the extensions. If this is the case, we have a product for you to use between fills that will reinforce the bond of the glue.
Can lash extensions damage or harm natural lashes?
If applied properly, no. Although if your technician applies lashes that are too long or too heavy for your natural lashes, there is a risk they can be damaged. This is why it is so important to seek a licensed esthetician or lash stylist. Even more important to make sure that they have advanced training, stay up to date with current trends, and put time into continuing education.
Can the eyelash extension be removed?
Yes, eyelash extensions may be removed at any time and for any reason. The removal process is similar to the application process, but only takes about 30 minutes.
Are eyelash extensions suitable for everyone?
Unfortunately, classic eyelash extensions may not be right for you. If you have very short, very few, or very brittle natural lashes, the classic lashes will most likely damage what you have. However, we are trained in Russian Volume lashing as well, and this technique is suitable for all eyelash types.
If you have “pink eye,” a corneal abrasion, blepharitis, a stye, or eye mites you are NOT a current candidate for lash extensions. When the infection has cleared, you may discuss extensions at that time.
What is the difference between classic eyelash extensions and Russian Volume eyelash extensions?
Classic eyelash extensions were the original eyelash extensions. They have a 1:1 ratio for extension to natural lash. Thicknesses range from 0.12mm to 0.20mm.
Russian Volume eyelash extensions are the newest trend in the industry. Volume lashing has up to a 6:1 ratio for extensions to natural lash. Thicknesses range from 0.05 to 0.10. It’s the weight of the extension that makes the difference in ratio possible. With the extensions weighing so much less than the classic version, we are able to apply many more extensions to the natural lash without adding any excess weight. In fact, most times the weight of 4-5 extensions on one natural lash will weigh less than one classic extension.
Both have varying lengths from 0.07mm to 0.14mm. Generally with volume you choose a slightly shorter lash in exchange for the abundance of volume.
How does a lash cycle work?
Hair follows a specific growth cycle with three different phases that occur simultaneously.
Anagen is the growth stage where new hair is produced. If you pull out a new lash you will see that the bulb is very thick.
Catagen is the transition stage where the hair shaft grows upward and detaches itself from the bulb. The hair follicle will actually shrink. The lower part of the follicle is destroyed and the dermal papilla, which is what nourishes the follicle, breaks away.
Telogen is the resting stage. This is where you see lashes on your cheeks or lashes come out on the brush as you comb through your lash extensions. You don’t feel them fall out - this is part of the normal process of the replacement of old hair with new. There is virtually no bulb at the base. It is very normal to have anywhere from 3-5 lashes fall out each day.
How often do lashes cycle?
A full lash cycle can be anywhere from 21-90 days. Everyone is different. If you had extensions put on, you could wear them completely off in 4-5 weeks. Of course. any products and oil substances being used can impact the extensions’ longevity.