Everything You've Ever Wanted To Know About Eyelash Extensions—Explained
A simple breakdown
Photo: Getty
Jennifer Lopez
Whether you aren't satisfied with your natural fringe, don't feel like meticulously tending to your lashes daily, or just want to look like J.Lo, eyelash extensions are decidedly alluring. But from cost to maintenance, they are a *total* commitment. Here, find a quick and dirty guide to everything you need to know from application to how long they last.
How They Work
"Applying extensions to the lashes enhances the length, thickness, and fullness of natural eyelashes," explains Skyy Hadley, owner of As "U" Wish Nail Spa. "Individual lashes are dipped into a medical-grade adhesive and bonded to your natural eyelash. This process can take one to two hours."
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What They Are Made Of
"Extensions may consist of synthetic, human, silk, or mink hair," says Hadley. Synthetic lashes tend to be a bit shinier, studier, and suitable for a dramatic look, while silk or mink extensions are lighter, more natural, and less strenuous on natural lashes.
How They're Customized
"We take into consideration the condition (brittle or strong), length, and curl of the client's natural lashes, as well as their eye shape," explains Elizabeth Diaz, lash specialist at Pucker. The thickness of the lashes can range anywhere between 0.07 mm and .2 mm, while length can range from 6 mm to 15 mm.
Related article: 18 Things All Women With Great Eyelashes Do
How They're Maintained
According to Diaz, the following is recommended/required:
1. Avoid getting your lashes wet for the first 12-24 hours.
2. If you wear makeup, keep all oil-based products away from the eye area.
3. Don't rub your eyes.
4. Sleep on your back.
5. Brush your lashes in the mornings and after showers.
6. Brush from the tips, not from the root, or you'll end up pulling lashes out.
How Long They Last
"Lash extensions can last up to a month, but we always recommend touch-ups 10-21 days after to keep them looking full and neat," explains Hadley. "Keep in mind we lose 3-5 natural lashes a day."
How Much They Cost
"It depends on the salon you decide to go to," says Hadley. "More reputable salons charge $150-$350 for one application that lasts about 4-6 weeks."
Related article: How To Apply Fake Eyelashes Like A Pro
From: Marie Claire