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Eyelash extensions (EEs for short) are one of the trendiest services on the market right now, and they have every reason to be. Not only do they cut down on get-read time.. they make you look/feel fabulous, AND in some cases they have the ability to make you look a little younger. I want to correct and clarify some myths and misconceptions that are pretty widespread, because I guarantee.. SOMETHING you think you know about about EEs, is WRONG (to some degree).
1. "Eyelash Extensions will make my natural eyelashes fall out."
This is such a common misconception about the service that we provide. The simple answer is "No, eyelash extensions don't make your natural eyelashes (NLs) fall out. Poorly trained & uneducated individuals apply "EEs" the WRONG WAY....THAT causes your NLs to fall out. I also want to point out that in most of these cases, the service you are given wasn't actually eyelash extensions at all. There are so many establishments who claim to offer EEs but all they are doing is using the name and giving you something quick, harmful and usually cheap or significantly lower than market average. (Blog post also coming soon: Red Flags To Look For When Selecting An Eyelash Extension Artist)
These are a few examples I've heard:
They are cutting up strip lashes or using "clusters/flares" and gluing them on your NLs with some type of professional eyelash glue or even hair glue.
They are applying "clumps" of EEs incorrectly, resulting in a hot mess of glue all along your lash line.
They are applying EEs on your NLs that are too long, thick and heavy.
(Below are photo examples from a Facebook group of what improper application look like. Notice multiple natural eyelashes are glued together.)
These are all examples of services that will result in damaged NLs and lash loss. Please be careful and if you've experienced lash lost after having EEs, I BET something was done incorrectly. EEs are applied by a professional using 2 sharp tweezers. We isolate NLs and apply them to 1 NL at a time. (See photo below of isolation) This process usually takes 2 hours on average for full sets and about half for refills, depending on the style.
Doing so ensures NLs can shed and complete the natural growth cycle. An excess use of glue, especially gluing NLs together will cause damage. A lash that is glued to another, cannot shed when the time comes. A growing lash will also pull/rip out any surrounding lashes if they are glued together. THIS IS WHAT CAUSES DAMAGE. If you experience this over long periods of time, it can result in permanent loss of NLs.
Please be careful and educated when selecting a lash artist.
2. "Eyelash Extensions are painful, heavy and uncomfortable."
This is WRONG. I often ask clients how they are feeling as soon as I'm finished lashing them. They always tell me that they are feeling great and that they can't even feel the EEs. They should always be super lightweight and comfortable. When you have EEs that are applied incorrectly or too heavy, that's where pain and discomfort come in. The process itself should be painless. You should be comfortable enough to fall asleep or be relaxed enough to listen to music/podcasts.
Below are examples of things you should NOT experience during or after your lash appointment:
stinging/burning
poking/pulling feeling
general pain/discomfort
bloodshot, red eyes
itching
difficulty keeping eyes open
heavy eyelids
eyes glued shut
If you experience any of these things, I highly recommend you search for a new artist. The lash industry is NOT a "no pain-no gain" industry. Beauty is not pain when talking about EEs. I take pride in knowing my clients are comfortable and relaxed during and after their appointments.
3. "There are too many restrictions. They are too high maintenance."
This is false. There are very few restrictions associated with EEs. The most important restriction is not being able to put oil-based products on your EEs. The reason is because oil breaks down the adhesive used. Getting oil/products with oil on your lashes will negatively affect retention and ruin your lashes.
However, I don't tell my clients to give up facial products or any aspect of their skin care routine with oil, because it’s essential for healthy skin. I always recommend changing the way/amount of a product used. The most effective change my clients make is switching from normal "splash" rinsing their face and opting to use a wet washcloth or facial sponge. When you splash water on your face to remove skin care products, you are actually getting that product and its ingredients on your extensions. Using a washcloth or sponge to rinse your face will keep you in control of those products, and if they contain oil your lashes will be protected.
Below are things you CAN do with EEs:
Swim
Workout
Get them wet (it's encouraged to cleanse them daily)
Wear makeup
Plenty of things require basic maintenance to keep them working/looking their best. EEs require very basic after-care including:
Cleanse With a Lash Cleanser
Don't wet for 24 hours post-application
Don't use mascara or an eyelash curler
Schedule fills regularly
Click here to view a complete list of after-care instructions.
4. "I won't be able to pull them off. They won’t look good on me."
The BEST thing about EEs is they're completely customizable to your liking (as long as it’s safe for your NLs). EEs are not a one-size fit all service. A style that works for one client, may not be the best option for you. That could be because of sizing or lifestyle. If you are a person wears little to no makeup, and prefers a more natural look, Classic is for you. If you are someone who wears heavy makeup often and who is used to wearing strip lashes, hybrid or volume would be a good fit for you.
I require all new clients come in for a complimentary consultation. During this consultation I will assess your NLs to determine what they can handle. We will also discuss your lifestyle, likes/dislikes and overall lash goals/dreams. Not all EEs are dramatic and over the top. We will determine which style and size is a perfect fit for you.
5. "Eyelash Extensions cause infections, lash mites and are dirty."
EYELASH EXTENSIONS DON'T CAUSE THESE THINGS, POOR HYGIENE DOES. If you experience any type of infection or develop lash mites while wearing EEs, it's because you are not following proper after-care. This is common when lash artists don't explain proper after-care to clients, or when clients don't follow those instructions. As a professional, it is our responsibility to teach you the proper after-care to ensure your EEs stay clean and healthy. As the client, you are accepting the responsibility to follow the instructions.
Lash mites and infections develop when EEs are dirty due to:
Buildup of sweat, oil, makeup residue, and other substances
Touching/rubbing eyes with dirty hands
Using a dirty brush to cleanse
It is important to make sure your lash artist is educated and cares about your natural lash health. Stay tuned for my next post: Red Flags To Look For When Selecting An Eyelash Extension Artist
Francesca R.
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