You guys, I did a thing. I got eyelash extensions.
I know, I know. It’s pretty extra.
Here’s the thing, I’ve been hearing mumblings about extensions for a good year now. My friends are talking about them and none of us, save a few ladies who are ahead of the beauty curve, know what the process actually entails.
Well, I’m here to break it down and demystify the process. I’m not going to lie, having lash extensions is like having a cosmetic cheat code. Whether I’ve just woken up, exercised or lived through a 12 hour stint at the office, they always look AMAZING.
I know you think I’m overaggagerating. But I’m not.
Curious About The Process? Here’s What You Should Know…
The most important thing you need to do before committing to a technician is research, research, research. Why? Because at this moment in the state of Maryland you actually do not need a license or certification to offer the service. You could literally watch a YouTube video and start working on clients.
I mean, maybe it’s just me but I prefer someone fully certified wielding sharp objects in my eye area. But I’m funny that way…
My technician was Lauren Abagale of Lauren Abagale Lash. She owns her own studio, is fully certified and to top it off is a licensed cosmetologist. You just can’t get any better than that in my book. I’ve known her for a few years now and I trust her completely.
Plus, her studio is literally dreamy. It is located in Urbana, Maryland and it is so beyond anything I was expecting.
What happened..
My initial appointment took about 2 ½ hours. At first, I admit that it surprised me when I was told how long it would take. I’m used to appointments for nails and massages taking about an hour and I mistakenly assumed would also apply to lash extensions.
But lashes are a much more intricate procedure. Lash extensions are applied, one by one on top of each natural lash with a semi-permanent glue designed to hold them in place for several weeks at a time. When you consider that each eyelid accommodates approximately 150 to 200 individual hairs, 2 ½ hours seems completely understandable. Also, who knew we had that many tiny hairs on each eyelid?
I was told to arrive with my eyes free of makeup. Lauren and I talked about what she had to offer as well as my personal taste in lashes. She suggested the “classic” set for me. Although I do love the dramatic look I get with temporary lashes at events and galas, I really don’t think that is a good everyday option for me.
The procedure…
From that point she had me lie down, make myself comfortable and close my eyes. She did some arranging of my bottom lashes with under-eye pads and tape, I believe. It is imperative for your eyes to remain closed during the entire application during which the technician applies each individual extension with tweezers. Pro tip: Use the bathroom before you hit the table.
My biggest worry at that point was if I would fall asleep on the table. (Seriously.) Apparently that happens all the time, though. Its fairly normal for clients to come in and doze off during the procedure.
I can see why, it really is that relaxing. Also, I can literally count on both hands how many times I’ve gone 2 ½ hours without a husband, kid or cell phone interrupting me.
By the way, I barely felt a thing. Once in awhile she would lean over my forehead but other than that I was completely oblivious.
Thank goodness I was interviewing her for this article or I would have been snoring away!
Voila! The result…
So I have an advantage in the lash world, because although my lashes are lighter brown and inconsistent, the ones I do have are not super short. But even with those circumstances you’ve got to admit the results are impressive!
The care and keeping of lash extensions…
A few things to know after your extension appointment:
- Don’t let your extensions get wet for the following 24 hour period so the glue can dry completely.
- Steer clear of humid environments like saunas.
- Avoid oils and oil-based makeup remover. They are your lashes’ worst enemy. (They can break down the adhesive.)
- Touch-ups or “fills” should be scheduled every three-ish weeks. Just like a fill for a nail appointment, your lashes grow and the extensions will need maintenance. The fill-in appointments take less time, however (roughly one hour and a half) and range in price.
One myth I’d like to dispel – Properly applied and cared for extensions won’t make your eyelashes fall out! You will notice some inevitable casualties as your lashes grow and shed, however. Lashes have natural cycles just like hair and nails. So don’t worry if you see a few. Normal shed is about three lashes per day anyway.
The investment…
In full disclosure, I was given the opportunity to experience lash extensions in order to write this article.
That being said, pricing for extensions varies from location to location and according to the extension chosen plus the experience of the technician. Based on my research, I believe you can expect a full set to start around $150 and climb to as high as $500 for more affluent areas. And fill-ins every three weeks are an additional expense.
In my personal opinion, you get what you pay for. Lash extensions should be applied by a certified technician in a sanitized environment. Because otherwise you are asking for trouble. Save the Groupon for a yoga class.
The verdict…
So the real question is, would I do it again? Do I think it is in investment worth making?
Absolutely.
It is worth every penny. Especially if you are one who has barely-there or sparse lashes. I’ve seen many a before and after picture that have transformed someone’s face.
What are you waiting for?
About the studio:
Lauren Abagale Lash
