Lash extensions are definitely my favorite beauty secret. I first gave them a try when I was competing for Miss North Carolina in 2013, as it alleviated the need to apply lash strips each time I went on stage. I definitely fell in love with them, but ultimately did not keep them up and decided to switch back over to using mascara.
About a month ago, I decided I would try them again and visited Kelly at Seagrass Salon. I showed her a few inspiration photos that I found on Pinterest, and she nailed it. At first, you may think whoa, those are some serous lashes, but you quickly get used to the ease and volume of your new lashes. I've had the most comments, inquiries, and questions in regards to this beauty secret -- so here's the skinny on lash extensions.
How long does it take to get them applied?
For a full set, it can take anywhere from 2 to three hours, depending on the look you are going for. I've chatted with my gal or just taken a quick nap. It goes by more quickly than you think. A fill in takes a little more than an hour.
How long do they last?
Two to three weeks on average. I get fill-ins every three weeks but I'm very careful in not touching my lashes.
How much do they cost?
This isn't a cheap endeavor - a full set can run between $150-300 depending on where you are located. Fill-ins are generally less than $100, between $40-$65 in this area.
Don't your lashes fall out?
You may not realize it, but you naturally lose lashes every day. So yes, you will see some shedding, but no more than you normally would (should you go to the right technician). After stopping application the last time, I didn't notice any difference in the fullness in my natural lashes - though I of course missed my extensions!
Do you still wear eye makeup?
I personally hardly wear eye makeup now - if I'm going somewhere special, I'll add a little liner to my top lashes and mascara for my lower lashes, but for the most part, I'm sans-eye makeup with lash extensions.
How do you wash your face?
The same as I normally do aside from staying away from my lash line. I keep any oil-based products far, far away (oil will loosen the bond), and gently use a q-tip to get any hard to reach places around my lashes. There are also certain makeup removers that are created just for eyelash extensions, like this one by Xtreme Lashes.
Where should I get them done?
You'll see ads for lash extensions all over the place - nail salons included - but I would highly recommend seeing a certified technician. Kelly is certified by both NovaLash and Xtreme Lash, two esteemed brands in the beauty industry. Because these are going by your eyes, double-check before your technician gets started and make sure you are 100% confident in the person who will be doing them.
Anything else?
I would highly recommend taking photos of what you want and getting advice from your technician as to what works with your features. That will eliminate any surprise or confusion when you look in the mirror!
Feel free to ask any other questions! NC gals - go to Kelly at Seagrass if you are ever in Wilmington! If you book with Kelly, receive $50 off your first full set - don't forget to mention Southern Style!