Thinking about getting lash extensions? Let’s have a talk!
Most of our first-time clients walk through our doors after falling in love with those fluttery, picture-perfect lashes they’ve seen on their favourite celebs or influencers. Naturally, they’ve got questions– lots of them– and wonder if lash extensions really worth the hype.
We totally get it– trying something new can be pretty intimidating, especially when it’s glued to your face. But don’t worry– whether you’re completely new to lash extensions or just looking to learn about how they work, this blog is your no-stress, no-judgement guide to everything you need to know. Let’s break it down.
WHAT ARE LASH EXTENSIONS & HOW DO THEY WORK?
Lash extensions are semi-permanent fibres glued to your natural lashes. They are tiny, light-weight fibres that are usually made from synthetic, silk, or faux mink material.
Lash extensions are carefully attached one by one to your natural lashes using a special glue. The whole process is done by a trained lash tech (that’s us) and usually takes about 1.5-3 hours depending on how dramatic or natural you want your lashes.
The end result is longer, fuller, more lifted lashes without the need for mascara or lash curlers.
ARE LASH EXTENSIONS WORTH GETTING?
That totally depends on your lifestyle and how important effortless glam is for you.
Lash extensions are absolutely worth it if you love waking up all put-together, dislike dealing with mascara and false lashes, or just want that extra “wow factor” without having to do a full beat every morning. We’ve seen many happy moms, busy professionals, brides-to-be, and frequent travellers who enjoy this extra luxury and swear by the subtle confidence boost this brings in their life.
On the other hand, if you’re personally super low-maintenance with your beauty routine, don’t mind applying mascara or falsies occasionally, or are known to have sensitivities to adhesives— then lash extensions may not be your ride-and-die and that’s absolutely okay.
They’re a beauty enhancement, not a necessity, but they sure do make life a little easier and prettier.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF LASH EXTENSIONS?
This is important since lash extensions aren’t really a “one-size-fits-all” decision. Here are the few main types and each adds a different look to your facial profile:
- CLASSIC LASH EXTENSIONS
They’re applied using a 1:1 ratio- one extension per natural lash. This enhances the length and curl of your natural lashes while maintaining a very natural and defined appearance.
Why choose them? They’re ideal for clients who already have a healthy lash line and want to keep the look simple, elegant, and low maintenance.
- VOLUME LASH EXTENSIONS
Volume lashes involve attaching multiple lightweight extensions to a single natural lash, usually in 2D to 6D fans (meaning 2-6 extensions per natural lash). These fans are ultra-thin so they don’t weigh down the lash.
Why choose them? They’re perfect for ladies who have sparse or fine natural lashes, who want to boost fullness without adding too much weight or feeling overdone.
- HYBRID LASH EXTENSIONS
Hybrid lashes, as the name suggests, are a mix of classic and volume techniques. Some lashes get single extensions while others get light fans. This gives a more dimensional and slightly fuller look than classic but less dramatic than full volume.
Why choose them? They’re great for clients who want something versatile, and a mix of softness and glam in one set.
That said, lash extensions can be personalised further depending on the client’s wishes.
HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT EYELASH EXTENSION TYPE FOR YOU?
It all comes down to three things: your personal style, the density of your natural lashes, and how dramatic (or subtle) you want the final look to be.
Classic lashes are a great match for newbies. They’re subtle, elegant, and give you a good polished look. On the other hand, if you’re used to thick mascara and falsies, volume or hybrid lashes could give you the extra fullness and lift you’re after.
Your natural lashes matter too. If they’re thick and healthy, you’ll have more flexibility to go for volume or even mega volume without straining the lash line. But if you’ve lashes on the finer, sparse, shorter side, a lighter volume or wispy set can give you fullness without causing damage.
WHAT ARE MEGA VOLUME & WISPY LASHES– AND WHO SHOULD GET THEM?
Both mega volume and wispy lashes fall on the more dramatic end of the lash spectrum.
Mega volume lashes are ultra fine extensions (as thin as 0.03mm) to create dense fans- sometimes 6-16 lashes per natural lash. It gives you a deep, dark lash line and very fluffy, full effect.
For wispy lashes, we usually mix different lengths and fan widths, creating a “strip lash” effect with peaks and valleys. This gives a playful, flirty look.
WHAT ARE LASH MAPS LIKE CAT EYE & DOLL EYE?
Lash mapping is essentially the blue-print your lash artist uses to design your lash set and it can totally change the game for your custom lash look. Instead of just randomly applying lashes, lash maps use different lash lengths, curls, and placements to create specific shapes. Two of the most popular styles are cat eye and doll eye.
CAT EYE LASH MAP-
Shorter lashes near the inner corner of the eye, gradually increasing in length towards the outer corner. The result is a sultry, elongated shape lifting and extending the eye.
DOLL EYE LASH MAP
Focus on placing the longest lashes in the centre of the lash line, tapering off towards the corners. It opens up the eyes and gives a rounded, wide-eyed, “doll-like” effect.
HOW LONG DO EYELASH EXTENSIONS LAST?
They typically last about 6-8 weeks which is the average length of your natural lash growth cycle. They don’t fall out all at once though. Your natural lashes shed gradually, which means your extensions will too.
Most clients get refills every 2-3 weeks to keep their lashes looking full and fresh otherwise gaps start to appear as your natural lashes start shedding.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WITH LASH EXTENSIONS:
Lash extensions are generally safe and well-tolerated but here are few things to watch out for:
- Allergic reaction to adhesives. Ask your tech to do a patch test before applying it on your eyes.
- If they’re applied too heavily or glued improperly, they may cause tension and lead to premature lash shedding and breakage.
- Risk of infections like conjunctivitis. Be sure to clean your lashes and surrounding area regularly to avoid this.
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR LASH EXTENSIONS?
- Gently cleanse daily to remove oil and debris
- Use a clean, spoolie brush to maintain lash alignment.
- Avoid oil based makeup products that’ll weaken the adhesive.
- Avoid sleeping in positions that’ll rub your lashes against the pillows.
- For the first 24-48 hrs, keep the lashes dry so the adhesive can dry properly.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT A LASH EXTENSION APPOINTMENT:
An eye lash extension appointment usually involves a consultation with the lash tech, in which you can discuss your desired look and concerns. Then you’re asked to comfortably lie down. Lashes are cleansed, and under eye pads are placed. You’re asked to keep your eyes closed as the tech applies extensions, typically taking 1.5-3 hours. Once done, you can go home with your post application instructions.
QUICK RECAP:
- Lash extensions are a convenient and longer-lasting option to enhance your natural lashes
- There are different types like the classic, volume, hybrid, mega volume, and wispy, each giving you a different kind of fullness and shape.
- Proper application and careful aftercare is absolutely essential so that you don’t damage your natural lashes.
At JL Beauty World, we’d love to host you for your eyelash extension needs. We’ve a team of expert lash artists who are careful about what you need and what will complement your natural beauty. Book your appointment today and get ready to flutter your gorgeous lashes with confidence.