Eyelash Extension FAQ

What are they? Semi-Permanent Eyelash extensions look, feel and wear like natural lashes. They last for many weeks, are great for both special occasions and regular wear, are totally water resistant, and come in various lengths, thicknesses and colours. How do they work? The individual false lashes are attached to your individual natural lashes. A single natural eyelash is isolated and a synthetic lash is glued to the top of your own natural eyelash approximately 1mm from the eyelid, so neither the glue or the lash has contact with the skin. The adhesive used is specifically designed for eyelash extensions, and is extremely strong. How do I decide what length and set to have? There are many different options of lash lengths, thicknesses, curls and colours, which can be used to create a tailor-made look for you. What you decide to have applied depends on a number of factors such as the length and volume of your own natural lashes, what ‘look’ you are aiming for and your usual daily routine. Can anyone have eyelash extensions? Anyone of any age can have eyelash extensions applied as long as there is a natural lash to glue the extension onto. Ladies who have undergone chemotherapy and their lashes are starting to grow back also love eyelash extensions. They are suitable for any occasion, holiday or regular wear. Because the eyelash extensions are so natural anyone could be wearing them and you wouldn't know. They are also suitable for people who wear contact lenses and glasses. How long do they last? A full set of eyelash extensions can last for up to 6 weeks. However, most people are so delighted with their lashes they want to keep them for longer and therefore it is recommended to have a top up appointment every 2-3 weeks, to keep them looking full and luscious! For clients who would like to wear them on a long term basis it is recommended that a fresh set be applied every 3 months. A real lash’s life cycle lasts between 6-8 weeks. As your natural lashes grow and fall out, so will the synthetic ones that are attached. If your hair and nails grow quickly then that may indicate that your lashes also are growing, shedding and renewing themselves quickly, so you may find that your lashes will not last as long as someone whose hair growth is slow. Your life style and what work you do will also make a difference how long they last. Can I wear mascara? It won’t be necessary as the lashes will enhance your eyes more than mascara ever could. There is also a risk that the mascara you use could shorten the life of your lashes. If you must use mascara make sure it is water based (never use normal or water proof mascara, as they contain oils that will damage the adhesive bonding the lashes) Blu Make-up can supply water-washable mascara that is suitable for eyelash extensions. Can I curl my lashes? You won’t have to as the extension lashes hold their lovely shape and curl. Using a clamp eyelash curler is not recommended and will lessen the life of your eyelash extensions and perhaps damage them. Heated Eyelash Curlers should not be used as the heat will disturb the adhesive. How do I remove make-up without ruining my lashes? You can still use eyeliner and eye shadows as usual but remember to remove with a product that does not contain oil of any kind as this will affect the glue. It is recommended to remove eyeliner and eye shadow using a damp cotton bud and a small amount of water-based eye make-up remover, and gently running it along the eyeliner to remove it. To remove eye shadow wet a muslin cloth with eye make-up remover and gently remove eye shadow in a side and upward movement, not down onto the eyelash extensions. Wiping down towards the lashes will cause a build up of makeup on the lashes and may lessen the life of them. How do I prepare for my eyelash extensions? On the day it is important to arrive with no eye make-up on, and having not used anything oil-based on or around the eye area that day. Should you wish to have your lashes tinted, this must be done at least 24 hours prior to the lash application. It is not possible to perm or tint your lashes once the eyelashes have been applied. If you are a contact lens wearer, it is important to remove your lens before the procedure. Most clients find that the treatment is relaxing and enjoyable, as you will be lying down with your eyes closed for up to 80 minutes! I had eyelash extensions applied a few days ago and a few lashes have fallen out - why? As explained above the lash has a growth cycle and unfortunately it is hard to determine which lash is ready to fall out naturally, so it is unpredictable when applying the synthetic lashes. Each day we can loose 3-5 natural lashes, but often they fall out unnoticed. When eyelash extensions are applied we are more aware of when they shed, as we know the extensions are there plus they are longer, darker and thicker. If you sleep on your stomach with your face squashed into the pillow, or you favour sleeping on a particular side, you may notice the lashes may not last as well as the other side. What are in-fills, why do I need them and how often do I need them? In-fills are when the natural eyelash has fallen out (due to the eyelash cycle) and there has been an extension lash applied to it. You will require in-fills every 2-3 weeks if you would like to achieve a consistently full, fresh set of lashes Can the lashes be removed safely? Yes, at any time for any reason they can be removed. The removal process, while easy for a professional, should not be undertaken by a customer. There is a special professional remover that is a salon only product, and used correctly will remove the lashes with ease and without damaging the natural lash. It is a safe and comfortable procedure so no pain will be endured whatsoever.