CLB Wink

Over the last decade, eyelash extensions have become very popular. With the explosion of demand for the service, many salons have gotten in the arena for providing extensions; with quality ranging from great to poor. The range in quality causes confusion among those looking for extensions.

We think it is important for you to have all the facts on this subject. So, to help you understand more about eyelash extensions and the important questions you should be asking every salon, we have outlined the most critical details below.  Also be sure to review our eyelash extensions FAQ page.

What questions should you ask when searching for a reputable salon or professional?

When searching for a reputable salon, it is important to review before and after images. Read through all the reviews as some may be false. Reviews can be bribed/paid for; therefore, it is important to read and filter through for truthful, quality reviews. Upon researching, make sure to get consulted. Your consultation time is time for you to not only have your lashes reviewed by an artist but for you to interview your artist as well. Your artist should walk you through the health of your natural lashes, the length, thickness, shape of your eyes, guide you through the best extensions for your desired look, and walk you through how to care for you lashes and how long they should last based on your individual routine. This is the time to get comfortable with your artist as the service takes some time. You should also scan the salon for cleanliness and professionalism. Cleanliness indicates proper sanitation/maintenance of salon and tools used. Professionals research and use the best products for optimal extension usage and they typically have the most experience and training.

What are the most common types of lash extensions?

What exactly are eyelash extensions made from? Professional eyelash extensions come in a few different materials: synthetic, silk, faux mink and mink. Within these types, you can have standard round base lashes or flat base lashes. The flat base lashes are best if you have fewer and thinner lashes but are hoping for more of an eyeliner, dramatic look. You can also personalize your look with a range of available sizes — 6 millimeter to 17 millimeter. Curls range from J curl to L curl lash extensions. With your desired look in mind, your lash artist will select the lash extension type , and size which best meets your desired look while preserving your natural lashes; the next step is the application. The lash extensions are applied one at a time using a semi-permanent glue that won't cause eye irritation nor damage the natural lash. The most common type of extension used is the standard C Curl with lengths 7 millimeter-15 millimeter.

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What happens if glue gets in your eyes?

During the lash application process your eyes will be closed the entire time. Because of this the likelihood of getting glue into your eyes is slim to none. There are safety precautions you can take when considering lash extensions. The first step is selecting a qualified salon and artist; feel free to ask them questions about the process and each step. However, if glue does get in your eyes, you should minimize squinting or rolling your eyes to prevent spreading of the glue. Your lash artist will rinse your eyes with saline until you are no longer in discomfort, fan your eyes to remove any vapors and should stop the process until a time that your eyes have cleared from the reaction.

What happens when you cry?

Getting eyelash extensions should be a completely pain free experience. If you experience any discomfort during the procedure, you should mention this immediately to your technician. This could be a sign that you have an allergic reaction to the glue. It is important to avoid crying as well as moisture during the cure period, but as soon as that period (12 to 24 hours) is over, cry all you want. Lash extensions are water-resistant. It is very important to not cry during the process as crying can spread the glue/vapors causing irritation. Crying during the process will also make it very difficult for the glue to dry and bond the extension to your lashes.

Can you go blind?

No. Your technician should be trained to complete the lash extension procedure in a way that is completely harmless. No matter how bad of an allergic reaction you may experience, you should never go blind. If you should experience a serious reaction you may need to visit an eye doctor to obtain specific eye drops to help the allergic reaction. Do not rub or pull on your lashes as this may cause further damage. Rubbing can increase your chances of a corneal abrasion.

Do false lashes ruin natural lashes?

Perhaps the largest misconception when it comes to lash extensions is the idea that they will harm your natural lashes. Let's clear that up — they will not. As with many of the notes above, if applied properly eyelash extensions will not ruin the health of our natural lashes. The most important item to consider is your eyelash artist. Make sure that they are documenting the health of your lashes and updating you during each service. If the proper lengths and thicknesses are selected, no harm should come to your natural lashes.

Is it okay to also wear mascara?

You may find you don’t need to wear mascara in addition to having your lash extensions, but if you do, apply it starting from mid to the tips of the extensions. Using mascara at the base of extensions could result in clumpy lash extensions or make the extension fall off. Make sure to wear mascara specific to eyelash extensions and do not wear waterproof mascara.

Do lash extensions fall out over a certain period of time?

The extensions are attached to your natural lashes, so over time they will fall out naturally. We recommend re-lashing every 2-4 weeks. Lash extensions which claim to last longer than this period may be harmful to your lash and eye health; stronger bonds require stronger glue strength which may be harmful. With no re-lashing services, the last extension should come off anywhere from 6-8 weeks after your fullset. Lash extensions can come off with your natural lash or pop off on their own due to external factors.

Working with inexperienced lash technicians you may encounter those that apply one synthetic lash to three or more natural lashes. This will cause clumps, and can lead to the lash breaking and or falling out. Lastly, your lashes may fall out prematurely if you pull at them, or try to remove the extensions yourself.

How long does it take to apply lash extensions?

A full set of lashes will typically take a professional technician 1.5 to 2 hours to apply. These can be maintained year-round with re-lashing every 2 to 4 weeks. Re-lashes can take anywhere from 30-60 minutes.

It’s important to note that since everyone has different lashes, and condition of lashes, you may be limited on how long or thick you go with your extensions. This is to ensure your natural lashes remain healthy. If you are extremely nervous and hesitant but would love to have lashes, we suggest that you start with a half set—50 to 60 percent of your top lashes—It is easier to add more than to remove!

How to shower with eyelash extensions?

We suggest keeping water away from your lashes for the first 12-24 hours after you receive your lashes. The reason is that water can disrupt the setting of the adhesive holding your lashes in place. Twenty four hours is the standard time it takes the glue to cure, however in humid or moist conditions, it could take up to 48 hours. During the cure time avoid moisture, heat and steam.

Can you swim with eyelash extensions?

Similar to showering, of course you can! You just have to wait enough time to ensure the adhesive is properly cured. Wait at least 12 hours and depending on the conditions, how much you will be swimming, etc. you may want to wait a full 24 hours

If you’re in the Houston area, please feel free to visit our boutique. We are always happy to answer all your questions!