We weigh the pros and cons of getting eyelash extensions

Eyelash extensions are semi-permanent lashes that are attached to your natural lash hair and have become quite popular with millennial beauty enthusiasts right now. They are a step above sticking on false lashes and are known to last for many weeks. The rising popularity of permanent makeup like lip blushing (a form of tattoo) and eyebrow microblading, has made eyelash extensions a sought-after procedure. It is non-invasive, painless and cuts down on makeup time significantly. But given their popularity, do their pros and cons balance out to make them a worthwhile procedure to get? Let's look at some fast facts...

How are eyelash extensions put in?

Eyelash extensions - The Pros

FAQs about eyelash extensions

Eyelash extensions pros and cons

Even though the facts about eyelash extensions are pretty straightforward, they might not be enough to make an informed decision about whether or not to get them. Here we have elaborated in detail, factors like safety, cost, comfort, and the process that comes into play with the procedure as a whole.

How are eyelash extensions put in?

So, how exactly are false eyelashes attached to your natural lash line? Any trained professional, regardless of the salon you get your lashes done in, will roughly follow the same procedure:

The first step consists of a consultation to decide what type of lash extension will best suit your needs. This includes picking the fibre - synthetic, silk, and faux-mink - the length, and curl type. The final decision will be based on which type of extension fits best with your features and looks closest to your natural lashes. However, you can always go OTT and pick thick, fluttery ones, if you are comfortable and ready to commit to doing the maintenance.

Once this is out of the way, the technician will take over. Lash extensions are applied with a tiny, tweezer-like tool to stick individual lashes precisely. The false lash is glued onto each of your own natural lashes, one by one in a focused procedure that takes quite a bit of time, so be prepared.

To avoid overdoing it, the process begins with a pulled-back approach on the first round, which can take up to two hours on its own. Once this is done, the technician will go over with a second-round, touching up any bald spots that have been left behind. Since your lower lash is covered-up and glued down, there will be time to let the glue dry and for your eyes to somewhat adjust to the fake eyelashes.

Eyelash extensions - The Pros

Here are some of the major pros of eyelash extensions:

1. They speed up your makeup routine

Tending to your lashes can take anywhere between 10-20 minutes - if you are going all out with falsies and have to stick them, curl them and finish with mascara. Eyelash extension can save you this daily commitment and considerably speed up your makeup process.

2. They can replace other eye makeup

Eyelash extensions are statement enough to be worn on their own. They can give your eye a 'wakening' affect and take attention away from like dark circles and under-eye bags. This is why a lot of women get extensions done to eliminate the step of cleaning up eye makeup from their nighttime skincare routine altogether.

3. They can be customized

Regular falsies come in a standard make and follow a 'one-size-fits-all' approach. Eyelash extensions can be customised according to your desired length, volume, fullness or just something that enhances and shows off your eye shape. This makes them more suited to your unique facial features.

4. They avoid mascara mishaps

Mascara is one of the most common things that you might mess up while applying your makeup. Cleaning up smudges, clumps, and flakes can sometimes 'dirty up' the makeup application around your eye area. This issue is completely avoided by getting eyelash extensions!

Eyelash extensions - The Cons

Apart from the obvious complications that can arise from the chemicals in bonding agents and sharp tools used during the process, here are some of the major cons of eyelash extensions:

1. They are pricey

Unlike other permanent makeup procedures, lash extensions are pricey. Starter sets can be anywhere between 8K and 15K, based on the type of extensions you choose and the technician's professional experience. On top of that, you have to get touch-ups done every two to three weeks. Since they are glued on to your natural lashes, they can shed pretty easily and good quality replacements can cost up to 7K.

2. They can affect your natural lashes

While the procedure on its own is pretty safe, certain missteps can cause damage to your natural lashes. For instance, places that provide ‘cheaper’ extensions usually.

stick on a pre-glued cluster of lashes on your natural lash line. This can totally destroy your natural lashes.

3. They can be quite uncomfortable

Even though lash extensions are designed to be lightweight, they can be quite uncomfortable to get settled into. You are, after all, wearing them all the time - to bed, to the shower and everywhere else. This is especially true for novices in the lash game who do not have much experience with makeup. It is also true if you have overly sensitive eyes, dry eyes, or tend to suffer from irritation more often than usual.

Things to remember about eyelash extensions

After going through the above pointers, if you have decided to get eyelash extensions, there are some things you need to keep in mind:

Avoid water or steam from coming in contact with your extensions for the first 48 hours after getting the procedure done.

When you do take a shower, you will have to dry your wet lash extensions with a blow dryer. Keep it on the lowest speed and coolest setting, use a spoolie brush to gently dry them out.

Eyelash extension touch-ups are necessary, as they can start looking clumpy and sag a little after 2-3 weeks, because of your natural lash cycle.

Do not remove them on your own, or else you risk losing your natural lashes in the process.

Your skincare and makeup routine have to be updated to maintain the lashes.

For instance, oil-based cleansers and emollient eye creams are a big no-no.

They can loosen the bonding agent and make the extensions fall off quicker. Also, mascara can add undue weight on them and lead to breakage.

Finally, you have to be extremely gentle with them. This means no rubbing, using only silk pillowcases and being extremely careful while using eye accessories like glasses or sleep masks.

Pro tip:

If you are feeling anxious about investing in lash extensions, consider starting small. A lash conditioning serum, lifting product or even a tint will add some depth to your lashes, without the added costs and risks of getting proper extensions.

Did you know?

While eyelash extensions eventually shed on their own, they can be removed by professionals if needed. It is not recommended to remove lash extension on your own and the general procedure followed by technicians include:

Application of lash glue remover and a wait time of a couple of minutes.

Removal of the individual lashes one by one, with sterilized tools.

Make sure the eyelash glue remover you use does not irritate your eye, we suggest you keep a few options on the ready.

FAQs about eyelash extensions

FAQs about eyelash extensions

1. Can eyelash extensions ruin your natural lashes?

A. It is a myth that lash extensions can ruin your natural lashes. When done correctly by a professional, they are safe and do not affect the health of your natural eyelashes. Just follow the recommended care directions with your extensions to avoid any accidents with them.

2. Can you wear mascara with eyelash extensions?

A. While you can wear mascara with eyelash extensions, it is generally not needed and recommended against. Wearing the wrong kind or too much can cause the lashes to fall out, damage the extensions and significantly decrease their lifespan. Also, waterproof or oil-based mascaras can dissolve the bonding agent used to maintain the extensions.

3. Can I wear eyeliner with lash extensions?

A. When it comes to eyelash extensions, the rule should be 'less is more'. In the case of eyeliners, the daily application can lead to product buildup, which is difficult to clean without compromising the extensions. To be on the safer side, pick an oil-free powder eyeliner and lightly apply it close to your waterline; dust off any excess with an angled brush.