Have you heard about eyelash extensions? Are you thinking of getting them? They are rising in popularity and it’s now easier and easier to find eyelash technicians who perform eyelash extensions.
Last year I started getting eyelash extensions after meeting a new friend who I thought had great-looking eyelashes. She was a woman my age, and I ponied up the courage to ask her why her eyelashes were so perfect all the time. She replied, “Eyelash extensions!”
I had already heard about eyelash extensions before but, to me, it seemed like an arduous and inaccessible procedure to go through. After a few conversations with my perfect-lashed friend, I decided to book an appointment with her eyelash technician and try it out for myself.
What Are Eyelash Extensions?
Eyelash extensions are synthetic lashes that are glued individually to your existing natural lashes. Yes, it’s a procedure that’s as long as it sounds. My first initial appointment took almost two hours and the following appointments, called fill-ins, were about an hour each (every two to three weeks).
Extensions are typically made of silk, mink, or synthetic fiber and each type varies in cost.
My Personal Experience with Eyelash Extensions
I decided to get eyelash extensions from a nearby certified technician – the same one as my perfect-lashed friend. The place was clean and had soft music playing. I told her what I wanted, and she showed me pictures of different types of extensions. I opted for a very natural look with a natural curve. In silk.
She determined the numbers, and I lay down and closed my eyes. She placed a pad on the undereye area to hold down the bottom lashes and proceeded to wash my top lashes.
The eyelash extensions are tediously placed on each of your existing lashes. The more lashes you have, the longer it takes. There is no pain – I think I even fell asleep for a short while.
When she was finished, she gently brushed the eyelashes and placed a small fan to dry them for about 10 minutes. She gave me a mirror to check my new fluttery eyelashes out. I absolutely loved the look!
The technician instructed me of the aftercare, which consists of keeping the eyelashes completely dry for 24 hours and then regular cleanings with a specialized cleaning product or baby shampoo.
I started going regularly, about every two or three weeks, to fill in the lashes that had fallen off. This happens regularly. These appointments are never more than an hour, depending on how many lashes she needed to replace.
After a few months, I realized that my lashes were thinning out. The technician noticed also. She hardly had any new lashes to put the extensions on. The golden rule of eyelash extensions is that you need to have natural lashes to attach the extensions to. No lashes, no extensions. I removed the remaining few extensions and waited for new lashes to grow. It wasn’t a pleasant transition, to say the least.
My friend, on the other hand, has been getting extensions and fill-ins for years without any breaks. She is in her 50s, like me.
Pros and Cons of Eyelash Extensions
Pros
They Look Natural
I absolutely love the look of my eyes with extensions. I make sure to ask for a natural look and curve.
No More Mascara
This one was a big pro for me. I have been wearing mascara every single day since I was a teenager. That’s a lot of mascara!
You Wake Up Like That!
I love the freedom of waking up and having a very minimal makeup regimen when I have eyelash extensions. Definitely love what I see in the mirror first thing in the morning!
They Feel Light, Compared to Layers of Mascara or Falsies
Unlike mascara which can feel clumpy or false eyelashes that can feel heavy, extensions feel light and breezy.
Cons
Expensive
They are not cheap and it’s a constant dip in your wallet to upkeep the look.
Time-Consuming
The first appointment can last up to two hours – depending on your technician. The subsequent appointments are typically about an hour long.
Reduce Natural Lashes
The extensions (and glue) can cause weakness in your natural lashes, and they can fall out with the extensions. At least that was my experience.
Risk of Infection or Irritation
Any procedure that involves tweezers, glue, and a stranger’s hands near your eyes opens the door to possible bacteria or viruses. Also, some women may be sensitive to the adhesive and get irritation.
Would I get eyelash extensions again? Yes. I do love the look of the extensions and If I am to get them again, I will make sure the lash technician is knowledgeable about older women’s lashes.
Caring for Your Eyelash Extensions
Caring for eyelash extensions involves several steps to ensure they last longer and maintain their appearance. Here’s a guide:
Keep Them Dry for the First 24-48 Hours
Avoid getting your lashes wet immediately after application to allow the adhesive to fully bond.
Avoid Oil-Based Products
Oil can break down the adhesive, causing the extensions to fall out faster. Use oil-free makeup removers and cleansers.
Be Gentle
Avoid rubbing your eyes or pulling on your lashes. Be careful when washing your face or applying makeup.
Clean Regularly
Clean your lashes gently with a lash cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. Use a clean spoolie brush to comb through your lashes and keep them looking neat.
Avoid Heat and Steam
Excessive heat or steam can weaken the adhesive bond. Be cautious with hot showers, saunas, and steam rooms.
Try to Sleep on Your Back
Sleeping on your side or stomach can cause lashes to rub against the pillow, leading to premature shedding. Use a silk or satin pillowcase to minimize friction.
Recommended Products for Eyelash Extensions
Following these care tips and using the right products can help keep your eyelash extensions looking beautiful and lasting longer.
Lash Cleanser & Conditioner
LashGame Eyelash Extension Cleanser
A gentle formula that cleanses without damaging the adhesive.
LASHFRESH EYELASH EXTENSION CONDITIONER WITH SILK PROTEIN
The silk protein and other nourishing ingredients help to strengthen natural lashes, making them softer and more silky while also preventing breakage.
Spoolie Brush
A high-quality brush for detangling and grooming lashes.
Oil-Free Makeup Remover
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
A gentle, oil-free formula that effectively removes makeup.
Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover
Safe for use with eyelash extensions.
Lash Sealant
Lash Savvy Protective Coating Sealant
Helps extend the life of your extensions.
If eyelash extensions are not for you but you still want full lashes, read 13 BEST MASCARAS FOR OLDER WOMEN and 7 BEST NATURAL MASCARAS FOR OLDER WOMEN.
Let’s Have a Conversation:
Do you have eyelash extensions and love them? Have you ever gotten them and hated them? Will be getting eyelash extensions? I would love to hear about it in the comments below.
