Eyelash extensions are the one beauty treatment I am head over heels obsessed with and rarely go longer than 4-6 weeks without! In terms of other things such as eyebrows, nails, facials etc. unless I have some spare cash lying around (Which is never) I opt for a DIY job. However, my eyelashes are different, I adore having them done.
I started getting mine done just over a year ago and since have had so many people say to me "Omg, do they not destroy your actual lashes having them on for so long?" The truth is your lashes weaken a little bit YES, just like your nails after nail extensions but your natural lashes will NOT fall out if they are done correctly.
Over the last year, I have been trying different little tricks which help the set maintain fullness really well and then some aftercare tips to help get some strength back when they come off.
1. Brush your Lashes
I brush mine about twice a day with a small brush which I get from my technician after each appointment. I always make sure to brush them when they are wet and normally do it whilst putting on makeup and once before bed.
2. Don't Get them wet in the first 24hours
Most lash technicians will tell you this anyways but it is so important to avoid getting them wet for the first 12-24hours after having them done as the glue is not fully set. Even moisture like steam or sweat could have an affect so gym and shower before your appointment!
3. Be cautious removing makeup
Its so easy to just rub your eyes with a wipe or cotton pad forgetting about your lashes until you see a few on the wipe/pad. I love wearing Liquid Liner and this was nearly impossible to get off without losing a few lashes until i started to use a cotton earbud with some makeup remover! It makes removing any eyeshadow on the lower eyelid really easy to remove without ruining lashes!
4. Clean them
This is something that doesn't have to be done all that regularly, but I find even if it is done Once every so often if helps. I use a bit of baby shampoo mixed with water and use the small lash brush to clean them. This is especially important when on holidays as sand and chlorine makes them quite dirty.
5. Avoid Oils Until they're gone
Oils will make the glue separate causing the lashes to fall out, so avoid makeup removers and moisturisers with oils until the lashes are gone. When they are all gone I find rubbing a little bit of coconut oil on your own lashes helps build up some strength again.
6. Take a Break
This is something I find hard, but it is important to give your lashes a 1 or 2 Month break sometimes. Also don't always get refills. I normally get a full set then 2 Refills, take a short break and then get a new full set. Constant refills won't look as fresh and full and will fall out quicker.
(left is without lashes, right is a fresh full set)
I think taking care of your lashes while they have extensions and when they don't is the key in making sure they don't stump or fall out. I personally love having mine done because my hair is so fair that without mascara my lashes are invisible so for lazy days in college etc. with no makeup, I look less horrific and since I've been getting them done I actually wear a lot less makeup and I've grown to hate mascara! Even with a full face of makeup they just look better and more fluffy!
Finding a technician you are comfortable with is super important too, I get mine done at The Lash Lab and wouldn't go anywhere else! I usually go for a 13D or 14D curl as I like quite a full look. So make sure to tell your technician what look you are aiming for and they will decide on the curl best suited. I always feel so relaxed at The lash Lab and for €45 for a full set and €25 for a refill, it never breaks the bank even on a tight student budget!
Happy Lashes,
Grainne
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