We Tried... Lash Extensions! For Great Lashes at Any Age

When it comes to long, full beautiful lashes, some might go as far as calling me obsessive. I’ve tried my fair share of mascaras, I don’t do false lashes (just too fiddly and time consuming) but I have become a ‘devoted fan’ of lash extensions. This statement is often met with a raised eyebrow. Lash extensions have ended up with a bit of a bad reputation due to damage and breakage of lashes, but I’m going to tell you why you shouldn’t jump to ‘lash’ conclusions…

What are lash extensions?

Simply put, lash extensions are semi-permanent fibres (that looks like lashes) that are attached to your natural lashes to create fuller, longer and darker looking lashes. Individual lash extensions are attached to your natural lashes, one at a time, using a semi-permanent glue. According to experienced lash artist Samantha Townsend from Polished Nail Bar, "almost anybody can have lash extensions, even people with very sparse or fine lashes. And ideally a good lash artist should work with you to create a set of lashes that suit your features and lifestyle best" she says. You'll find that lash artists often have a preference for the types of lashes that they work with, but silk and faux mink are popular choices thanks to their natural-looking finish. "The extensions that we use are synthetic and completely vegan and cruelty-free" says Townsend. But make sure to always ask to what type they are using to make sure it is an option you are happy with.

Did you know: As we age our lashes become sparser that can result in gaps with thin and shorter looking lashes. A classic set using individual fan lashes, where each extension looks like a tiny little fan, will address any gaps easily.

Types of eyelash extensions

Lash extensions come in a range of different types, widths, lengths, curl and finishes. "Silk lashes for example, are shiny whereas mink extensions have more of a matte look to them" says Townsend. Typically your artist will use different lengths and curl strengths to create a look that best suits your eyes for a wide-eyed finish. There are two main styles, Classic and Volume (the latter also being known as Russian or glam lashes). "Classic lashes are applied individually, so each natural lash has one lash extension attached and are the ideal choice if you want a more natural look", she says. "Volume lashes are when the artist creates fans by gluing three or more very fine individual lashes together onto a single natural lash for a more dramatic effect. It is important to consider the weight of the lashes and although the extensions are light, a lot of them all together on the lid can look and feel heavy or ‘overloaded’, making your eyes look smaller", she says.

How does the application process work?

After discussing your lash preferences, you will have to get comfortable for a while. Your eye area and lashes will be cleansed to make sure there is no make-up or oil on or around your lashes. Your eyes will be closed for the entirety of the application process and can take up two hours depending if it is a full set application or an infill. Your bottom lashes will be secured out of the way with an eye gel and tape, this also provides a contrasted background that makes it easier for your artist to see your lashes. Using a tweezer, the artist will then glue the extension to the base of your natural lash with a tiny amount of glue. "On average, we will use around 160 lash extensions during the treatment and at no point does the lash glue come into contact with the skin" says Townsend.

Tip: Make it a bit easier and faster for your lash artist by arriving makeup free to your appointment if possible.

How long will they last?

This varies from person to person. "Lash extensions fall out as the natural lashes shed and on average, a person loses between three to five natural lashes per day" says Townsend. It is recommend that you book infills for every 3 weeks, but sooner if you see prominent gaps.

Will it damage my lashes?

"If your lashes are applied by a qualified and experienced lash technician and maintained correctly, i.e. you don’t pick at them, rub your eyes and gently clean them with a lash extension cleaning product, they will cause no damage to your natural lashes" says Townsend.

My experience

I’ve had lash extensions on and off for years and can honestly say that if you want to look a bit more polished without much effort, lash extensions may be a good option for you. Here are my list of pros and cons.

Pros

• It does the job, really, really well The end result is amazing and if you want your eyes to look bigger, wider and more youthful it does the trick. Plus they really do look great on almost everyone.
• It’s smudge and waterproof One of my main reasons for loving this treatment, I don’t have to worry about product transfer no matter a torrential downpour, humidity, a sweaty gym class, they just always look good.
• It’s customisable You can go as dramatic or natural as you like, just chat to your lash artist to decide what will look best on you.

Cons

• It is a time commitment It’s the time it takes to maintain my lashes that makes it hard for me to commit to them at times and if you have a fair amount of other treatment commitments like nails, brows, facials, hair, wax (the list can go on) adding another can be another time suck you just can’t afford.
• It can be expensive It is not the cheapest treatment out there and your initial set will cost anything from $110 upwards depending on the salon and the look you go for. In-fills (or fills) will cost around $65 per appointment.
• Uneven fallout Depending on your lashes and how they fall out they can end up looking a bit scraggly after a couple of weeks, so you do need to brush them and if it’s unmanageable, go for an in-fill. And using any oil-based cleansers are not an option, as oil can break the bonds between the glue and your extensions causing them to fall off.

Would I do it again?

Absolutely yes. It might not be for everyone, but for me, the benefit I get from my extensions out-weigh the negatives. My advice, make sure you go to a salon with experienced and reputable lash artists. If the price seems too good to be true, it usually is and your lashes will pay the price. Also, if you are someone who can't leave your lashes alone or you know you will pick at them, you will end up with damaged lashes, so hands off.