Fancy overhauling your current lash game in favour of a luscious, Bambi-like flutter? Instead of rigorous eyelash curling and meticulous mascara application, you could shave heaps of time off your morning makeup routine with this beauty industry godsend.
Lash extensions offer instant polish, no finger lifting necessary. Fuller, darker and longer lashes are within reach – and Hello! Fashion caught up with eyelash extension specialist and founder of Boudoir Lashes Asma Docrat to find out everything that you need to know about the cult-adored beauty treatment.
What are lash extensions?
Eyelash extensions are semi-permanent fibres (synthetic, faux mink or silk) that are individually attached onto your natural lashes to give the illusion of increased length. Extensions are available in varying curls, lengths and thicknesses so that your technician can curate a bespoke lash look.
"There are two types of techniques," Asma explains. "Classic Lashes (the OG) are single lashes applied one by one. Volume or 2D, 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D versions are extra superfine filaments of fibres grouped together to create volume fans. this effect creates a fluffy effect on the lash line."
What you need to know before getting them done
Wash your hair before getting your lashes done as once applied, extensions need around 24-48 hours to cure (when the adhesive dries through to the centre). Any excess humidity can affect the curing time.
You should also arrive with clean, makeup-free lashes and refrain from using a curler on the day of your treatment. Plus, if you've recently had a lash lift or perm you will need to allow for at least eight weeks until you can get lash extensions.
READ: Eyelash tint: everything you need to know about the beauty treatment – according to an expert
MORE: What exactly is a lash lift? Here's everything you need to know
What does the lash extension process look like?
After a consultation, your technician will cleanse your eye area and apply an under-eye gel to your lower lash line tape to ensure they don't interfere with the procedure. This is usually secured with medical-grade tape, but it doesn't touch your lashes therefore removal shouldn't hurt.
How long on average does it take?
The process takes anywhere from one to three hours depending on the style and number of lashes you have applied.
How many individual lashes are applied per eye?
"If a client has 50 natural lashes on each eye and you offer a full coverage set then that would be 100 eyelash extensions," Asma says. "This set could typically take anywhere from one to one and a half hours. The number of lashes applied depends on the clients’ natural lashes. Typically, clients who have natural thick lashes will have more applied especially, if they want a full coverage set."
How much does it cost?
The price of eyelash extensions varies depending on the location and skill of a lash technician. Asma, who has been creating natural-looking extensions since 2010, charges £135 for a set of classic lashes and £275 for Hybrid Lashes which reflects her expertise. Some places may charge less, but with such an intricate procedure (glue near your eyes, need we say any more?), it's obviously important to make sure that your technician knows their stuff.
How long do they last?
"A few factors affect the longevity," Asma says. "How many lashes are applied in the first instance and also how the client takes care of the lashes once applied. My lash sets normally last around four to six weeks based on a classic full coverage set."
Asma’s rules for lash extension aftercare
- Keep your lashes clean by using an after solution and brush
- Keep makeup around the lash line to a minimum
- Don't wear mascara over your extensions (you won't need to)
- Avoid rubbing and picking your lashes
- Ensure you have infills every two to four weeks
- Avoid oils around the lash line
- Ensure you keep your lashes dry for a full 24-48 hours post-treatment
- When you wash your hair ensure you allow the shampoo to run down your back, not over your face
- If you smoke light the cigarette away from your lashes – I've seen singed lashes quite a few times
- Your lashes will grow over time which is when you need to book an infill to remove the outgrow lashes – do not cut them off
What kind of person could benefit from eyelash extensions?
"Eyelash extensions are perfect for anyone and everyone, however some people can be allergic to the adhesive so it’s important to have a patch test seven days in advance," Asma advises.
"I also offer an LED curing technique [which uses LED light to bond extensions almost instantly] which has enabled clients who have previously had allergies to traditional adhesive to have extensions."
Where should you go for eyelash extensions?
Boudoir Lashes offers appointments on a mobile basis or at several central London locations. Other reputable places include Blink Brow Bar, Nouveau Lashes, Edy London and Atherton Cox.
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