My history with lash extensions.
I had lash extensions applied in July 2017 and kept them on continuously until September 2018. Since then I have been using prescription Latisse, which is giving me naturally thicker, darker and longer lashes, and, I have a mascara method down pat that creates the look I want.
In this post I’m going to tell you what I learned from using lash extensions for more than one year.
How lash extensions work.
You need to have them professionally applied. I know that there are kits on the market, and frankly knowing what I know, I would not waste my money on them. I don’t see how anyone could get the same look at home without the help of someone who knows what she/he is doing.
You need to go for regular fills. Your technician will have a recommended time frame there. For the most part, it’s either one, two, or three weeks. There are exceptions, though, but I’m not convinced that going longer is a good idea. Read below to see why I say that.
Prices vary greatly. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 for a full set depending on the level of fullness you want in your lashes. Classic looks are the lower end, and glamorous looks at the higher. Fills range anywhere from $50 to $75 usually, and could go higher if you have waited beyond the recommended time frame. That’s another reason why you should stay with the schedule your tech recommends.
Now for the dos and don’ts of lash extensions.
DO…..
Purchase a package of replacement mascara wands right away. Every morning, carefully brush out your extensions. Be very careful.
Also purchase a lash conditioner. Apply this to the lashes themselves, avoiding the contact point where they are glued to your natural lash line. This is important to keep your extensions softer and natural looking. I found that this also kept the lashes from tangling.
Splash water on your face after washing, including your lashes. In addition to the lash conditioner, the water helps keep the extensions hydrated and looking good. See below for a very important warning about when it’s ok to get your lashes wet.
Apply makeup as usual, including a swipe or two of mascara if you think you need it. I rarely did but everyone is different.
Wait 24 hour after a full set or a fill before showering. That includes getting your eyes wet when cleansing your face.
Wait 48 hours before swimming.
DON’T…..
Leave mascara or eye makeup on overnight.
Use waterproof mascara – it’s too hard to remove.
Use oils on your face. This is a big issue. Many facial cleansing products contain oil, including essential oils and petroleum jelly, so choose only the “oil free” types. Facial serums and moisturizers can contain oils as well. You can apply serum oils on your face itself, and under the eye, but avoid the upper lid.
Get a salon facial or use a facial steam appliance at home. The only way you can get a salon facial is to schedule that service first, then the lash application or fill right after that. Steam will loosen the glue that keeps the extensions in place. So if your tech is also an aesthetician that’s perfect, otherwise you’ll need to book the appointments as close together as you can. Just remember that the facial comes first and you should tell your tech that you’ll be doing that facial beforehand.
Tips
There are products on the market that are safe for use when you have lash extensions. Just keep away from oils, especially around the eye area.
It’s super important that you don’t shower or otherwise get your face wet during the 24 hour period following your lash extension service. Use oil-free facial cleansing towelettes that night,
Swimming is also a big no-no for 48 hours. That includes hot tubs, saunas, hot yoga classes, and of course, using a facial steam appliance.
Taking good care of your lash extensions keeps them looking beautiful and very natural, so you need to be ready to make that commitment.
Buy Lavish Lash HD Mascara on Amazon
Lavish Lash Link https://amzn.to/2SDJS7g $19.99 (Affiliate link so I may a little money from your purchase)
Buy Latisse through the YoDerm Website
YoDERM Latisse link https://yoderm.com/refer/4nIrw4MTS2S/ If you sign up, I get a $30 credit and so do you!
PHOTOS
At left you see me now, with my own lashes. I use Latisse and Lavish Lash HD Mascara.
Above I have a before and after lash extensions. Both are good, I personally prefer my look now and the less-hassle maintenance.
