Eyelashes are getting a lot of attention these days, aren’t they? Not only do we have false lashes (strip, individuals), we can add an extension, tint, and even curl our natural lashes. When you think about how small an eyelash actually is, it’s impressive that something so small can be manipulated or altered in so many ways. This post is strictly my opinion and experiences only, and it is in no way intended to offend or upset anyone. Please keep in mind that everyone’s personal experiences will vary.

I remember the first time I found out what eyelash extensions were, and was completely blown away. I was working on models for a styled shoot for a Milwaukee magazine geared towards brides. This was the year that William and Kate were set to walk down the aisle. I was doing makeup for the spread and the cover, but the models were all set with lash extensions from a local spa the day before. I took one glance and was instantly jealous of their fabulousness. The lash technicians even came into the salon I was working at at the time to do touch-ups. They were getting credit for these lashes so I learned that each model had each gotten 3 hours worth of lashes applied the day before. I talked to the spa owner who came in to do touch ups and she mentioned she would even offer an industry discount. The price point was $350 for a full set, and fills were only needed every month. Awesome, I couldn’t wait and went in for my own set of long, fluffy lashes. No shade to the spa (which has been closed for years), but I was definitely led to believe I could get the same result I saw on the models, as I had stated that that is exactly what I wanted, and that is not what I got, for my $300+. The same tech/spa owner spent about half the amount of time on my lashes, and they were very pretty, but I remember the tinge of disappointment I felt. That disappointment became frustration when I realized that there was no chance I’d be able to go 4 weeks without a fill, as I had been told before my appointment. I actually couldn’t go more than 2 weeks. I was working 2 jobs and just barely out of beauty school, so needless to say I couldn’t afford it for very long. At that time, I was paying close to $200 for a fill. That first set was my favorite of all of them.

The second time I decided to try lash extensions, I was looking for a way to not have to apply strip lashes every day. Same with the third and final time I tried them. I felt that the lashes looked too curled and were all the same length, and completely unnatural looking. I have friends who are trained in lash extensions, and I even took a class on it myself. I was excited to do it, but quickly realized how expensive the kit would be and I was not sure I could make it worth my while. It had become slightly less expensive, but was still a significant investment. I decided (finally) that they were not for me and my strips gave me a better result for less money and very little time. For me, the cons outweighed the pros and by quite a lot. So what are the cons of lash extensions that no one tells you?

-you cannot wear mascara (you really shouldn’t need it all things considered) or are only to use oil-free

-you cannot rub your eyes. this won’t seem like a big deal until you feel the itch..

-you may wake up with some of the lash extensions turn/twist upside down

-you have to protect them when showering/washing your face. sometimes it may be suggested that you wear goggles while showering (!)

-your natural lashes shed faster than you think!

-once enough of your natural lashes have shed, your lashes will look noticeably uneven

-due to the nature of the service, the area is extremely sensitive and reactions are common (redness, swelling). this has never been my experience, but I know many who have

-even for a high maintenance gal like me, they are very expensive and time-consuming

Pros:

…yes there are some

-longer, darker, thicker lashes than what you may have been blessed with

-when applied properly, there will be no damage to your natural lashes

-great for special occasions

-a variety of lengths, densities, and hair types can be used to customize your look

So should you get lash extensions?

I would start by asking yourself how much you can afford to spend (time & money) on your lashes. Are you prepared to go spend 45-60 minutes getting them filled every 2-3 weeks? Are you ready for the adjustments in your routine, meaning actually having to think about your eyelashes? What is your goal in getting them to begin with? Just because my experiences have not been desirable does not mean yours won’t be. It is important to do your research, and make sure the person is a licensed practitioner (cosmetologist or esthetician)! Ask to see photos of their work, not stock photos which often are strip lashes, check social media to see if they have photos posted, and reviews from other clients. Ask people you know if they have ever gotten them, and most importantly ask the lash technician all the questions you can think of before the service begins.