All About Eyelash Extensions: Is it Time to Ditch the Falsies?
A set of long, full eyelashes never goes out of style. Eyelash curlers, volumizing mascaras, false strip eyelashes, and growth serums are some of the more popular ways that have been in the beauty industry to help people achieve desirable lashes. But in recent years, eyelash extensions have grown in popularity. The goal of many beauty products is to give a glamorous, yet natural look – and that is exactly the appeal of eyelash extensions. However, with every good thing comes drawbacks, and eyelash extensions are not exempt.
Image Courtesy: The Riotact
The process is simple enough. With semi-permanent glue, a licensed technician applies individual eyelash extensions one-by-one to the base of your natural eyelashes. The extensions are made from synthetic hair, synthetic silk, mink, or faux mink. You can get lash extensions in a variety of lengths, tints, and curl patterns to have a look that suits your wishes. The process is painless; however, patience is necessary because the application time ranges from 2-3 hours, but the result should definitely be worth the wait.
The best thing about eyelash extensions is that they really do what they are intended to do. You’ll wake up every day with silky volumized lashes. Having to apply several coats of mascara that gets clumpy and smudgy is such a hassle. Trying to glue false lashes onto your eye before an event is almost guaranteed to involve too much stickiness and frustration. With eyelash extensions, your makeup routine is cut down in time and your lashes are already flawless and natural-looking. Within the first 48-hours, eyelashes extensions should avoid being wet but afterwards, they are practically waterproof – a big relief. The idea of eyelash extensions almost sounds too good to be true, but the benefits are all true for most people.
Even though eyelash extensions offer amazing benefits, there are downsides and risks involved. If you lack time and money, this might not be the best option for you. Depending on where you go, an initial set will cost you between $100-$300. To properly maintain your lashes, you will need a refill every 2-4 weeks which will typically cost you between $50-$100 per visit. Another downside is the risk of irritation and infection are high. Our eyes are extremely sensitive and because the glue used to apply the extensions is a chemical, this adhesive can cause an allergic reaction or inflammation. Having a patch test done is a good option to ensure you won’t have a bad reaction to the glue. On top of everything, the maintenance for eyelash extensions is a bit intense. You need to be extremely careful when washing or rubbing your face because this can cause lash breakage. You should also avoid oil-based face products and probably invest in a silk pillowcase.
So, is it really time to ditch the falsies? Well it depends on what you are searching for. If you want longer, darker, and fuller lashes for a beautiful and natural look, eyelash extensions will always provide that. But if you do not want to deal with the time, money, or risks that come with them, then you should keep high-quality mascara and false eyelashes as part of your makeup routine.
Strike Out,
Writer: Kylee Mukeba
Editor: Joey Flanagan
Graphics: Valerie Esquivel
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