If you're considering getting eyelash extensions, it's important to do thorough research. What are the benefits, and are there any drawbacks? Whatever you do, read this before getting eyelash extensions.
Can your natural lashes be damaged by eyelash extensions?
No, not if done correctly and if you go to the right lash stylist. Choose a salon and lash stylist based on recommendations and good customer reviews. Eyelash extensions aren't cheap, and not doing proper research can be like throwing money away.
"If the therapist does a good job and the client takes care of them properly, then no, extensions won't damage the lash roots. We damage them ourselves with improper treatment at the salon or at home," explains lash and brow stylist Maxa Pasajeva, who works at Beauty Lounge Stockholm.
When getting eyelash extensions, you can choose from several different styles. Do you want a natural look or perhaps dramatic va-va-voom lashes? At the lash stylist, they should be able to help you choose what suits you and your natural lashes. If you get the wrong style, this is where your natural lashes can get damaged. For example, if you get lashes that are too heavy for your natural lashes, it can result in losing more lashes prematurely.
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Besides being a lash expert, Maxa is also a certified skincare therapist and a real brow expert. You can find her at Beauty Lounge Stockholm.
Do natural lashes become shorter after eyelash extensions?
Maybe you know someone who has had eyelash extensions, stopped, and then felt their natural lashes are much shorter? Lash stylist Maxa Pasajeva believes this is more about the stark contrast felt when no longer having extensions. If done correctly, your natural lashes shouldn't be harmed.
"When clients come to me, their natural lashes are usually about 6–10 mm long. They often start with eyelash extensions that are 9–13 mm long, then they get used to the lashes being thicker, denser, darker, longer, and more curled. Over time, they want the therapist to use even longer lashes. If you suddenly stop with extensions, you feel your natural lashes are much shorter and get shocked—it's a matter of habit," Maxa explains.
Besides being a lash expert, Maxa is also a certified skincare therapist and a real brow expert. You can find her at Beauty Lounge Stockholm.
Solution to the feeling of shorter lashes after eyelash extensions: eyelash serum
To avoid the contrast of shorter lashes, Maxa Pasajeva suggests it's a good idea to start using an eyelash serum several months before removing your extensions. Xlash Eyelash Serum can be combined with extensions as it doesn't contain oils.
"You can start using Xlash Eyelash Serum about three months before you want to remove your extensions, so you don't have to experience having no lashes left," says Maxa.
By using an eyelash serum while you have extensions, you can also ensure your own lashes are healthy! If you're still unsure if extensions are for you, this is also a good alternative. In 4-6 weeks, you can achieve longer lashes naturally and easily with Xlash Eyelash Serum.
"Xlash is significantly cheaper than extensions, plus you can do the treatment yourself at home, and it only takes five seconds," Maxa adds.
You can develop an allergy to the lash glue
It's usually not the lashes themselves that cause problems with extensions, but the glue. Don't forget that the glue contains chemicals that can lead to inflammation, allergic reactions, and dry, red eyes. To ensure you won't react to the glue, it's always important to do a patch test before your eyelash extension. Ask the lash stylist if they can apply a small amount on your arm. If your skin reacts after 24 hours, you shouldn't proceed with the extensions.
Eyelash extensions are time-consuming
Before you can enjoy waking up with fabulous lashes and not having to fix them, you need to go to a salon to get the extensions done. And this can't be done during a lunch break. An eyelash extension takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. Additionally, you must regularly return to the lash stylist for refills.
The reason you need a refill every three to four weeks is that even your fake lashes will eventually fall off. After two to three weeks, you'll notice some lashes falling from your extensions, which might not give you the desired look. However, don't try to pull them off yourself, as you might accidentally pull out some of your natural lashes.
Besides being a lash expert, Maxa is also a certified skincare therapist and a real brow expert. You can find her at Beauty Lounge Stockholm.
How you care for your eyelash extensions is key to a good result
You might think eyelash extensions are particularly suitable for those who are a bit lazy? Think again, apart from not having to use mascara, there's a lot to consider with eyelash extensions.
Firstly, the first 48 hours after getting extensions at a salon, it's important to avoid water and steam. This can dissolve the glue and ruin your new lashes. You can, of course, take a shower and wash your face during this time, but you must be careful not to get water near the lashes.
Secondly, you must avoid rubbing your eyes (this is something you should avoid if you want nice lashes, extensions or not). You must also stay away from products containing oils and heavier creams. Additionally, you need to add a step to your routine: eyelash extensions benefit from being brushed through once a day.
Lash stylists also recommend not using mascara when you have extensions: The reason is that some mascaras are difficult to remove, which can result in the glue dissolving. Additionally, many mascaras contain oils, which, as mentioned, is a big no-no when you have eyelash extensions.
