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What are Eyelash Extensions?
Eyelash extensions are synthetic fibers that are attached to your real lashes one by one to make it look as if they are all one seamless strip of eyelashes.
This procedure makes your lashes look more voluminous and lush. Because the eyelashes frame the eyes, you tend to look brighter and younger.
Eyelash extensions actually look natural because of the fact that it is just attached to your natural lashes which means that it is your eye shape that is being followed.
It's like having mascara on 24/7. In the olden times, only the noble people in Egypt were allowed to sport long eyelashes.
However, in the 70's and 90's they slowly became more and more popular because of the celebrities and models that sported them. Nowadays, women can't live without their long and lush lashes.
Types of Eyelash Extensions
Guide for Eyelash Extensions
There are three main types of lash extensions and these are:
1. Synthetic:
This is the most inexpensive of the bunch. It is pretty basic and it is made of artificial material.
2. Silk:
This kind of eyelash extension tends to make a more dramatic look since it is a much darker black as compared to the others. Silk also makes it look as if you already have mascara on.
3. Mink:
This one is the most luxurious of the three. Mink has more natural looking eyelash extensions. It tends to blend into your natural lashes. The problem with mink extensions though is the fact that it is a little bit costly.
How Long do Eyelash Extensions Last?
The eyelash extensions can last up to a whole year. However, this requires a touch up here and there. A touch up is probably needed every three to four weeks.
The natural cycle of the eyelashes should also be a factor. Since lashes normally fall off every now and then this is the reason that touch-ups are required.
Does the Treatment Hurt?
Generally, the answer to this question would be no, having eyelash extensions put on is supposed to be a pain-free experience.
Dr. Paul Rafuse, an ophthalmologist from Halifax, claims that eyelash extension poses no health risks as long as done by a highly skilled technician. [1]
However, some people are allergic to the glue used in the treatment. When you start to feel a burning sensation to the point that it can bring you to tears, immediately inform your esthetician. You could be having an allergic reaction to the glue.
It is extremely important to stop the treatment immediately once you feel the discomfort to avoid any redness or swelling in the eyelash area.
Always make sure that irritants like formaldehyde are not present in the ingredients of the glue being used on your extensions.
How Long does the Treatment Take?
The procedure usually starts by the esthetician taping down your upper and lower lashes. It is then that the tedious procedure of placing one synthetic eyelash after another is done.
This usually ends with your esthetician curling your lashes for a more finished look. For this reason, this treatment usually takes around two hours to finish.
Do the Eyelash Extensions Damage Natural Lashes?
As long as the eyelash extensions are applied correctly, then no harm will fall upon your natural lashes.
Look out for an inexperienced technician. Amateur estheticians could mess up the application of your extensions. They could create clumps, and this, in turn, would damage eyelash extensions.
It is extremely important to go to an eyelash salon with a reputable reputation. As was previously mentioned, a treatment done for an eyelash extension is supposed to be pain-free.
To avoid damaging your lashes, just don't tug your lashes or rub your eyes. This could cause your lashes to fall out.
Can I Apply Mascara onto my Eyelash Extensions?
Generally, there is no need for mascara after you have had your eyelash extensions put on. But the answer to this question is yes, you can. However, there is a trick to this.
With a light hand and gentle strokes, only apply mascara to the tips of the extensions. Applying mascara to the roots of the extensions will cause it to clump.
Applying waterproof mascara to your eyelash extensions is also a big no-no. The lash removal of the waterproof mascara could end up ruining your eyelash extension, and you may end up rubbing or tugging at your lashes, which is bad for both your extension and your natural lashes.
You May Also Want To Read - Individual Eyelashes Vs Strip Eyelashes: Which Is Better?
What is the Aftercare for New Eyelash Extensions?
After Care for Eyelash Extensions
You should be extremely careful with your new eyelash extensions in the first 48 hours. It is important to keep it dry.
This means that activities that require you to sweat it out should be put off until after 48 hours of having this treatment done.
So that would be no exercising, no swimming or no trips to the sauna. This will ruin your new eyelash extensions.
Water can weaken the glue that was used on your eyelash extensions. Avoid rubbing or tugging on your lashes since this could damage not only the eyelash extensions but also your natural eyelashes.
When it comes to mascara, there is really no need for it. But if you have a flair for the dramatics then you can apply mascara.
But you are not allowed to use waterproof mascara as this could become a problem when you remove the stubborn product from your eyelashes.
Paula McFarlane, the owner of Lash Envy, suggests, “Use water- or gel-based cleansers and a sponge-tip applicator or lint-free cloth to remove makeup around the eye.” Baby wash can also be used. [2]
Those are the frequently asked questions with regards to eyelash extensions. If done in a trusted and trustworthy salon, by a skilled esthetician, your eyelash extensions will look amazing.
Eyelash extensions are safe, practical and make you look amazing every day with or without makeup.
Every girl's dream is to wake up every day, go to the gym or to the grocery and not have to put an inch of makeup on and still manage to look like a million bucks; this can be achievable with eyelash extensions.
2 Sources
We review published medical research in respected scientific journals to arrive at our conclusions about a product or health topic. This ensures the highest standard of scientific accuracy.
[1] Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences: https://medicine.dal.ca/departments/department-sites/ophthalmology/our-people/faculty/paul-rafuse.html[2] What You Need To Know Before Getting Eyelash Extensions?: https://www.besthealthmag.ca/article/eyelash-extensions/
