Eyelash extensions make short or sparse eyelashes more length and volume. These are then great options when you want your eyes to appear more attractive, especially when you want more definition. These are available in professional salons like the Amazing Lash Studio, a chain that specializes in eyelash extensions for men and women.
Are you interested in them? If you are, then it’s best to know what to expect and what to do during and after the procedure. You will find that the more you know about it, the better you can maintain the results and minimize the side effects.
Typical and Atypical
In many ways, professional eyelash extension application follows the same steps as do-it-yourself application. The main differences lie in the fact that a trained professional apply the fake eyelashes and the results will likely be better and last longer.
If it’s your first time, you should ask the eyelash technician about what’s normal and what’s not normal after the fake eyelashes have been applied. While there’s no pain involved in the application, each individual will have a different experience but it’s still a good idea to know the common experiences among clients.
The typical things to expect include the following:
- Minor redness around the eye area and dry eyes, especially in people with skin sensitivities. In most cases, fortunately, these side effects will wear off within an hour or so. If they don’t, you should call the salon for assistance or information.
- Falling fake lashes, usually 1-5, every day or so. This isn’t a cause for concern as it is normal because the fake lashes are significantly larger than your natural lashes. The number of lashes falling out will vary from day to day, such as none yesterday and then more today, but your lashes will hold.
- Lash growth cycle varies between individuals and even in the same individual. You may find, for example, that your lashes shed slower than it did in the previous month. Your lashes will likely still look great even after 4-5 weeks after the first application.
You should preferably request for personalized lashes that will suit the unique shape, size and color of your eyes, as well as your natural lash condition and your personal tastes. This may be more expensive but the results are always well worth the money. You should also be aware that even if you request similar lash extensions as your friend, these will look and feel different on you.
You are also well-advised to come for your infill appointment. Depending on your fake eyelashes, you may need an infill once every 2-4 weeks; the average is 3 weeks. Typically, the more fake lashes, the longer period between the first application and an infill; the shorter the fake eyelashes, the longer these tend to last, too.
If you experience any of these things, then you should contact your aesthetician ASAP since these are atypical:
- Red or swollen eyelids, intense itching, and other signs of an allergic reaction
- Excessive shedding of the fake eyelashes off your natural lashes in the first few days after application
- Gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes after wearing your extension for quite a while
You may also consider seeing an eye specialist if you have health concerns.
Dos and Don’ts
There are also certain things that you can do to minimize the side effects of fake eyelash extensions and maximize their longevity. Your aesthetician will also provide specific instructions about proper care of your lash extensions.
Do these things:
- Don’t touch your lash extensions for the first few hours so as to avoid transferring oils from your finger to them, among other side effects.
- Keep them as dry as possible for about 2-3 days after their application, which can mean no washing your hair and face for the time being. But if you really must, be sure to use lukewarm water and to use eye protection to keep water off your eye area. You should also avoid being in high-moisture areas, such as hot showers, saunas, and spas for at least 24 hours.
- Use oil control or oil-free products on your face, especially when using eye makeup cleaners and removers. Clean your eyelashes, too, at least a few times a week using a foaming lash cleanser.
As for the don’ts, these are common suggestions:
- Don’t play, pick and pull your lashes, which includes rubbing your eyes roughly.
- Don’t use oil-based or waterproof eyeliner or mascara.
- Don’t use mascara, if possible, as well as makeup wipes, cotton wipes, and baby wipes for removing it; water is just fine.
- Don’t remove the lash extension yourself; let the aesthetician do it instead.
The bottom line: Eyelash extensions will make your eyes appear more attractive but these require proper care, if not more care, than your natural lashes. You should then be ready to invest the time, energy and effort toward their upkeep.