Eyelash Extension FAQ and Aftercare

Lash extensions are a popular service that add length and thickness to your natural eyelashes by having a synthetic lash applied to each of your lashes individually. This takes the time that you would normally spend putting on mascara or false lashes out of your routine. They can look very natural or you can go full glam. Many lash growing serums can stain your skin or harm your natural lashes. If your natural lashes are compromised, the lash extensions won’t last as long.

It is important for you to make sure that the technician giving you your lash extensions has the proper credentials. In the state of Indiana, they just need to be a licensed esthetician or cosmetologist, just being certified by a brand is not enough. Do not be afraid to ask your technician for their credentials.

It is necessary for you to get your lashes touched up every 2-5 weeks so that new lashes can be added where the old ones have naturally shed. Your natural lashes shed every 60 to 120 days, but you lose between 1-5 lashes every day. Fills will take anywhere from 45-120 minutes. With regular visits and proper care your eyelash extensions can be kept on for years.

Your first appointment will take longer than any of your fills. The exact time will depend on what look you’re going for and how many natural lashes you have. It usually takes anywhere from 60-180 minutes, depending on the look you want.

Eyelash extensions can actually make you look younger. Eyes are the biggest reveal to your age. Extensions make your eyes appear less tired and somewhat lifted. This service is instantly gratifying, you don’t have to wait weeks or months for results. No two lash sets are identical. They are customized to the individual’s natural lashes and eye shape.

I use faux-mink lashes for my lash extensions. These are man-made fibers designed to imitate real mink fur. They feel just like the real thing, and if you wet them they won’t lose their curl. With proper care these lashes will last. They are attached with surgical glue as this glue is the safest option.

Just like any other skin, hair, and nail service there are also risks associated with eyelash extensions. With trained professionals such as myself they are rare, but they do happen. The most common complaints are allergic reactions to the glue, eye infections from unsanitary tools, or an infected follicle from two lashes being glued together, and/or the glue clogging the follicle. It is normal for some individuals to experience minor redness and dry eye. If you experience intense itching and/or red/swollen eyelids in the first few days after application this could be an allergic reaction, which is treatable. If your lashes, feel gritty and sandy it means that you need to clean your lashes more frequently/properly.

It is important that you arrive to your lash appointment without makeup on. Before your appointment it is recommended that you wash your lashes with warm water and baby shampoo.

Lash aftercare is just as important as the initial service. Do not pick at or pull your lashes, you do not want to pull them out as they will take your natural lashes with them and you do not want the oils from your skin to break up the adhesive. Avoid using anything oily near/on your lashes as it will degrade the glue. Gently cleanse your lashes each night with a cleanser that is specifically for lashes. Brush your lashes every day to ensure that your lashes shed properly and do not tangle. Do not put mascara on them. Do not sleep on your face or rub your face with a towel too aggressively as this will strain and possibly tear out your lashes. A silk pillowcase would be best for your lashes as well as your skin and hair. Do not try to remove them yourself, if you need them removed, have a professional do it.

Hope this answers any questions or concerns you might have had about getting lash extensions.