Few things wake up the face more than long, luxurious lashes. They open up the eyes giving you a fresh faced look that is seen on our favorite celebrities the world over. Long lashes are a sign of youth and vitality and no glam beauty look is complete without the addition of va-va voom lashes. While I think we can all agree that lashes only serve to enhance our looks, getting naturally long, thick and full lashes is a near impossible feat for most. Sure you can master the art of applying strip lashes or individual clusters, but wouldn’t it be better to have semi permanent lash extensions? It sure would be! But are lash extensions right for you? I caught up with Jessica Shin of FLAIR Beauty to help you decide.
Please explain the lash extensions process?
It’s a single application process. It’s applied on top of each individual’s lash. After receiving a consultation from one of our experts, you then get escorted by your lash artist to their station. You have to lie down & also have the option of putting a soft velvet blanket over so you can fall right asleep. It’s a relaxing procedure in a very serene environment. Next, your lash artist will put on collagen patches under the eyes (to ensure the upper & lower lashes do not interfere w/each other). I advise my clients not to curl their lashes prior to the session. We have a vanity area where they can remove any sort of eye makeup but curling is not allowed. We make sure to clean the lashes thoroughly with our green tea infused primer/cleaner so it will adhere well. If you fall asleep that tells you the lash artist is gentle. I literally have clients that snore & grind their teeth which is perfectly normal. You can bring head phones & listen to music or podcast. Eyelash extensions may look easy but it’s a very meticulous job which requires precise skills and patience. I believe in quality control as opposed to quantity. The 2 major factors in lash extensions are good quality adhesives & highly trained skills. They must work hand in hand for great results.
What is the application time?
Depending on the set it varies. For a set that has 75-80 lashes per eye will take about an hour to hour and 10 minutes depending on the client’s condition. A set with 95-100 lashes per eye will take about an hour and 15 to 20 min. And a set with 120 lashes per eye will take about an hour and half to 45 minutes. Now if a basic set like the 75-80 takes up to 2 hrs, that means you were given a trainee/beginner. A highly skilled lash artist should be able to apply it on the dot, only leaving about .5mm – .10mm room from the root. If you see that the artist applied it onto your skin & used globs of glue, that means trouble. If the lashes are oily it will take longer because the glue won’t adhere well. As I mentioned in the 1st question we clean it thoroughly prior to, but there are people that just produce more oil than others.
Eyes are super sensitive — when applying semi permanent lashes, which glue is best to avoid irritation? Is there a particular ingredient or type of glue to avoid?
Every salon should have a hypoallergenic glue. I customize the glues & lashes that are manufactured in Korea. I wouldn’t trust anywhere else. I do inform my clients that the hypoallergenic glue may not stay on as long as others. Even our non hypo-allergenic glues are good enough for sensitive eyes. You should avoid glues that have formaldehyde. Now there is no such thing as organic glue but the hypoallergenic should be your best choice. We make sure during the consultation that the client does not have allergies or blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) If they do, I make sure not to do the application.
What are the major side effects of these glues?
The major side effects are swelling of the lids. The reaction can come from drastic change of weather, rubbing or pulling with dirty hands and using a makeup or skincare product that you are allergic to. I make sure our lash artists thoroughly cleans their hands before & after each session. And I make sure all tools are properly sterilized. Again, I want to emphasize how important it is to use the right glue with the proper skillset. Many salons are hit with lawsuits because of these reasons. For instance, if the lashes are applied onto the skin then you’re bound to get a reaction. The lids may turn red & skin start to flake because of the dryness. For some people it may go away in a day or 2, and for some the reaction can get worse.
What steps should you take if you notice an adverse reaction?
The first thing you do is dab cold water on your eyes while it’s cold (with clean hands of course). Call your salon & speak with any of the specialist and go in right away. It is imperative to have them professionally removed. You can take benadryl to calm down the swelling. Make sure to have the lashes removed completely. Then wash your face to remove any excess left behind.
What should you avoid while wearing lashes?
Avoid using mascara (it will damage the lashes), mineralize or high pigmented eye shadows, waterproof eyeliners and oily/creamy products. The first 12 -24 hours are very important. Do not get them wet or go into a sauna for the first day. If you work out be sure to do it prior to the session. Avoid chlorine water. If going on vacation taking a dip on the beach is fine but not swimming pools. Eye creams should be worn in the morning before leaving the house. If you must apply at night please do so an hour before going to sleep.
Let’s say you apply the lashes and you suddenly decide you no longer want them, can they be safely removed?
Yes they can be removed by any one of the lash artists. It requires special solution and must be gently removed by a professional.
How long do lashes stay on?
Depending on each individual’s shedding cycle it varies. Some can last up to a month or even more. And some 2 to 3 weeks. I have yoga & pilates instructors that are constantly sweating so they come in religiously every 2 to 3 weeks for refills. And there are women that can’t stand to see sparse areas so they come in every 2 to 3 weeks. I don’t recommend going over 3 wks due to the residue & build up that occurs. It’s best you come in & we clean it thoroughly without pulling out your lashes. Whatever is about to shed or fall off we discard fill them in with fresh new lashes. If you maintain them well by following instructions they will last for quite some time. It’s not healthy for the lashes if you apply heavy makeup and don’t clean them properly. If you abuse your lashes they will get damaged. I have clients that have been with me for 6-7 years with no problem. I advise my clients to brush with a good bristle daily to prevent the lashes from twisting so it can keep its original form. Important not to brush the lashes from under & out, but from above swerving outwards gently at a 45 degree angle. Brushing is an important routine with lash extensions.
What does it cost to get lash extensions?
Every salon has different price points. It also depends on the location and the quality of the products they use. When you go to a salon that offers cheap bargains, you get what you pay for. I charge anywhere between $125 to $235 depending on the sets. I am confident in my work & products. I think my prices are reasonable for the quality & location. That is why my regulars don’t even question. I suggest doing some research before making an appointment at any lash salon. Also, word of mouth is always the best guide.
So, are you considering lash extension? I hope this has helped you to make your decision. Thanks to Jessica Shin of FLAIR Beauty for taking the time to chat with me.
FLAIR Beauty & Lash Studio is located at 7 West 45th Street, Suite 503, New York, NY. The studio is dedicated to the application of semi-permanent eyelashes, permanent makeup, makeup application, waxing, massage and facials. Open six days a week from 10am-8pm weekdays and 10am-6pm on Saturdays. Appointments can be made on their website www.flaireyelashes.com or by phone at 646-590-1192.
Photo Credit: All images from Flair Beauty’s Instagram page.
