Everything You've Ever Wanted to Know: Lash Extensions

Us girls tend to gravitate towards a beauty fad or two and literally become obsessive compulsive over it.  We research it all day, we find a ton of different options of how to get 'er done, and than we either go ahead with it or not. More often or not, for myself, I end up not.  But please, by no means am I going to waste my time and energy...I am going to share with you my leanings of the pros & cons of lash extensions...and then tell you why I am not going thru with it. 

I don't know if it's just me, but now more than ever I have been noticing longer, more luscious, luxurious looking lashes on ladies. I naturally have long lashes but these are wam-bam thank you ma'am gorgeous! Some are very obviously fake, while others have me guessing.  I took the time to look into lash extensions...and here are my findings. 

Types of Lashes: There are many types you can have done.  The most popularly known are the 3; synthetic, mink, and then there is silk.   

Synthetic Lashes – the most basic kind of lash which is also the least expensive extension type.

Silk Lashes– tend to be very popular as they are the “darkest, richest black,” says Buhler. “They provide the fullest overall look and kind of that deep mascara look.”

Mink Lashes– preferred by women “who are wanting a really natural lash look, and…a softer black.”

After you decide from the three, there are a variety of ways to actually have these applied.  Some extensions are single lashes while others may be a strip. Obviously, the single lash application will look a lot more natural but with this comes a lot more cost and expertise of the person whom will be applying these lashes.  Speaking of which, the training and qualifications of this person is very important and something you should absolutely consider. I've heard way too many horror stories of people not knowing what they're doing and using funky glues and wrong application processes. 

Along with all of the above, you want to make sure you have a guarantee that the lashes will last x amount of days.  If there is a problem with your lashes the day after you have them applied, you should be able to go back and get a complimentary touch up or fill. 

Make sure you do your research too! Look at their portfolio and see the actual work that has been done...make sure they are true images, and not Google Image'd eye lash extension photos. 

Cost: Prices range anywhere from $60 to over $200. Definitely check out Groupon for some local deals near you! 

Do they last? Not really. So sorry to be blunt here, but there are so many factors that become enemies to these faux lashes that I couldn't possible think it's worth it.  Lashes shed, begin to look patchy and soon enough, you will have gaps after a week or so and before you know it...it's time for a fill! You won't want to sweat, swim, do hot yoga, live in a tropical climate, etc etc. If you are planning to sit pretty, sure go for it...but if you live an active lifestyle, these lovely lashes most likely aren't for you. 

So...alternatives? There are lash growth serums available at drug stores and online that do give you longer lashes. These serums are full of  nutrients to speed up hair growth and look natural but longer!