My journey with eyelash extensions began last October, and from the very first appointment, I was hooked. I had been contemplating getting them done for a while, but one day I picked up my phone and booked the next available appointment and my real eyelashes haven’t seen the light of day since (haha).

I have been getting lots of questions lately on Instagram about my lashes, so I figured it was time to do a full Q&A session for anyone who might be contemplating getting them!

Below are some of the most popular questions I’ve receive. Please note, that each answer is my own opinion and referencing my own experience, not a blanket statement for what everyone can expect anywhere.

 

How long do your eyelash extensions last?

This depends on multiple factors, including what type you get and how well you maintain them.  The lash salon I go to offers multiple types of lashes; I get the mixed volume set which typically lasts for 3 weeks before needing an infill. Some of the other sets they offer (classic: one synthetic lash per natural eyelash / mixed: combination of classic and volume) tend to last about 2 weeks.

When I first starting getting eyelash extensions, I began with the Crash & Daze set. I knew that I wanted more than the basic set (I looked through their online gallery to help decide before booking my first appointment) but wasn’t sure I wanted to start with such a dramatic look by getting the full volume set. So I went with the middle ground and was really happy with it.  After a few sessions, I switched to the full volume set because I naturally like a more dramatic eye.

 

Do eyelash extensions bother you when you first get them on?

I honestly couldn’t even tell a difference!  I am sure this might vary from person to person and how sensitive your eyes are, but I had no issues at all!

 

What is the process for getting eyelash extensions?

Again, I am sure this might vary at every salon, so I speak only about the process of the salon I go to.  Upon arrival, you lay down and they first tape down your bottom lashes so they don’t get in the way 😉 From there, you keep your eyes closed the entire duration of the appointment while they do their work.  The length of appointment varies based on artist, which set you are getting, and if its your first appointment (full set) or an infill.

 

How long does it take to get used to eyelash extensions?

I would say the biggest thing that took getting used to was washing my face.  At first I was really scared to touch them or wash my face, but I adapted after two days or so.  Also being mindful to not rub my face dry with a towel — after a day or so, I was already used to patting my face and lashes dry instead of rubbing a towel over them. Aside from that, I really didn’t feel any different and couldn’t tell a difference; they have always felt very natural to me!

 

Do extensions damage your real eyelashes?

I am not an esthetician; however, from speaking with my lash artists and asking this very question out of my own curiosity, it can totally depend based on technique and product.  It is VERY IMPORTANT to do your research when it comes to getting lash extensions. Ask around and get reviews from people you know and go to a reputable salon.  It probably also goes without saying that you get what you pay for. I’m a firm believer in this (pretty much with everything in life) so if you’re paying next to nothing, they probably aren’t high quality which might lead to more damage.

Since I have had my extensions without taking any breaks since October, I haven’t seen what my real lashes look like. However, the lovely ladies that do my lashes tell me they are all still there an in tact and that I do not have any damage!

 

What is the best way to clean lash extensions/get your makeup off?

After my initial appointment, the salon provided me with a cleansing solution and brush to use daily.  Since I do not wear mascara and eyeliner (most days) anymore, cleaning my eye makeup is no big deal at all anymore! They also provide a spoolie brush after each appointment and encourage you to brush your lashes daily with it.

Check out my 6 tips on lash extensions aftercare which will help make your lash extensions last!

 

Do you use mascara?

I do not wear mascara much at all anymore!  Or eyeliner!  Which were two items I wore every single day prior to lashes. Now, if I have a big night (such as a wedding or date night) I will wear eyeliner and mascara on the BOTTOM lashes only. I do not wear mascara on my lash extensions, and have only applied eyeliner to my top lid 2 or 3 times since getting extensions.  If you do plan to wear mascara/eyeliner, you need to make sure that the products you use are oil free (so that it doesn’t affect the adhesive product used to attach the lashes). The salon I go to actually sells oil free makeup so I did buy that eyeliner for when I use it on my bottom lash line.

 

Do lash extensions itch?

I have not had any itching with my eyelash extensions at all!  If you do experience any itching, I would encourage you to contact the salon in which you get them to make sure everything is ok.

 

Other things to be aware of

Shedding eyelashes is natural, so as your natural lashes start to shed, you will notice the loss of some of your lash extensions.  I find little eyelashes all over the place (mainly my bathroom) but this is normal!

Each time I get my lashes done, I have to avoid water for 24 hours so that the adhesive has time to set.  So make sure you shower/wash your face/do whatever you need to do prior to your appointment!

Addiction is real!  Haha.  I joke around all the time that I’m addicted, but its true. I love my lash extensions so much and honestly don’t see myself not having them done at all times.  For me, it has been a total game changer in many ways. I am way more comfortable now not wearing a stitch of makeup, whereas in the past, you would never catch me without a full face. I also reduced the amount of time it takes to get ready, and the amount of time it takes to clean my face (since I’m not having to take off mascara and eyeliner daily) so I absolutely love this aspect!!

 

There you have it!  My love of eyelash extensions is real and this is everything I could think of – however, if you have any questions I did not answer, drop them below and I will answer!

 

xo,