How Are Eyelash Extensions Applied, And Are They Worth It?

The beauty industry is growing regarding eyelash extensions, magnifying mascaras, miracle growth serums, and heated curlers. But no trend is quite as intense as eyelash extensions. When eyelash extensions started trending, it seemed like an easy, painless way to achieve beautiful eyelashes without the inconvenience of fake eyelashes. However, like any new beauty service, eyelash extensions revealed their setbacks over time. For starters, some states have placed no regulations on the service, leading to cases of irritation, infection, and damaged lashes due to poor hygiene and technique. The process is also relatively expensive, saving hundreds of dollars and hours of your time. So is it worth waking up with perfectly applied semi-permanent lashes every day?

What are eyelash extensions?

Eyelash extensions are semi-permanent fibers attached to natural eyelashes to make your lash look longer, fuller, and darker. Each lash extension is applied to your natural eyelashes using semi-permanent glue. The materials from each studio can be different, but most lash extensions are synthetic, mink, faux mink, or silk fibers. In addition, most studios offer a variety of extension lengths, curl patterns, and tints so clients can customize their look.

What is the application process for eyelash extensions?

Lashes are applied one at a time using professional-grade adhesive. It will attach only to an existing natural lash - never the skin itself, so there's no risk of discomfort during the application process. This is great because sometimes people have problems with their lashes being too short and not holding up well.

Consultation: Before applying, the technician should go through all the risks and benefits of having eyelash extensions. They might ask you to remove contact lenses if you wear them.

Decide on Extension Length and Curl: Your lash artist should start the process by asking you what kind of look you'd like, whether that be more glamorous or natural. Once you've chosen the length and curl of your extensions, it's time to make you look your best! Your artist can add up to 3 different heights for every client. They'll decide this based on which sizes they want around smoother areas like eye corners or smaller spaces.

Cleaning the Eye Area: Your lash artist will have you lie down and ensure you are comfortable. Then, they will wash the area to remove any makeup, oil, and germs from the face. Again, it's helpful to your artist if you are not wearing any makeup to your appointment.

Applying Tape and Eye Gels: You may think using eyelash extensions is a pain, but it's pretty simple. First, your artist will apply an under-eye gel to keep your lower lashes from getting in the way and provide contrast for application against your skin; then, they'll use medical-grade tape as needed.

Application: Using tweezers, your artist will dip the end of each extension in the lash glue and then apply it to your lash. In most cases, one eyelash extension is used per natural lash. However, some looks can require multiple extensions per individual natural lash.

Drying: You won't even know that the lash glue has dried! Once your extensions have been applied, it's time for you to sit back and relax.

Removing the Tape and Gels: The artist will remove all gels and tape when your lashes are completely dry. Once this process is done, you'll likely be asked to blink slowly while opening your eyes.

Where should you get eyelash extensions?

One of the scariest things about eyelash extensions is that some states only require a cosmetology license, not an esthetician's license. A shocking number; only consider someone with a cosmetology license to perform lash extension services on your eyes- which can lead to trouble if done incorrectly! When booking for yourself or another person, ensure your artist is explicitly trained at what they do best.

The benefits of eyelash extensions

With lash extensions, you'll wake up every day with long, fluttering, gorgeous lashes. The process dramatically enhances your eyes and looks incredible on everyone. Your look can be as natural or dramatic as you'd like; work with your lash artist to decide on your extensions' ideal length and curl. While you can't get them wet in the first 48 hours, you can still swim, shower, and sweat in your extensions. The entire process is 100 percent painless for almost everyone, from start to finish.

Eyelash products Skin Beauty recommends

There are many eyelash serums and growth products on the market, but Skin Beauty prefers safe, professional options! Here are our two favorites:

Babe Lash Serum is formulated with castor oil, vitamins, and antioxidants to nourish eyebrows for a thicker and fuller look. In addition, it protects against fall-out caused by environmental stressors like makeup removal and brow styling products. As a result, thin and over-plucked eyebrows are left looking healthier, thicker, and fuller.

NeuLASH Lash Enhancing Serum is a professional strength; advanced lash serum revitalizes lashes for a camera-ready, professional result. The combination of five active Bioengineered and active conditioning ingredients helps improve shiny, luxurious, more extended, fuller-looking lashes. The transformation begins with moisture. Sodium hyaluronate, known for holding 1000 times its weight in water, saturates the lashes in hydration, boosting softness, elasticity, and shine. Plus, it helps promote the look of strength and protects the lashes. Biotin, an essential B vitamin, adds to this effect, fortifying lashes against further damage.