Common Lash Extension Questions

-Do they pull your natural eyelashes out? 

   They shouldn’t. If they are improperly placed or adhered wrong, they could do some funky things like twist or pinch (this is why you pay for a trusted and certified lash technician.) If you pull, itch, or aggressively rub them, then yeah. They probably will pull on your natural lash.  If you have extensions, you may have found a fallen extension that has the natural lash on it. Most likely this lash has shed naturally resulting in you finding an extension with your natural lash on it.  

-What’s the difference between classic lashes & volume lashes? 

   Classic lashes are one thicker extension onto one of your natural lashes. Volumes are when the lash artist makes a fan of 3-6 lashes and adhere it to your one natural lash.  

-Is the glue really bad for you/your skin? 

   First off; the glue should never, I repeat NEVER, be purposely adhered to your skin. It isn’t going to melt your skin off but it is not designed to live on that surface. I’ll tell you an oopsies of my own though… When I first started lashing I accidently got a glob on the underside of my hand and dotted my clients eyebrow with it! Even though I was dying of embarrassment & she left with 1 good brow on, it wasn’t the end of the world. The only reason I strongly present that the glue should never touch the skin is to blatantly get it across to the general public that lash technicians should never glue directly to your skin’s lash line. This incorrect use can lead to lash hair loss, damage, or worst-case scenario: eye problems. Lash Extensions are no worse for you then going bowling or putting mascara on but an unknowledgeable, uncertified, or unhygienic lash artist could be.  

-Why are they so expensive? 

   Skill. The attention to detail & patience one needs is incredibly demanding. Also because of knowledge of special techniques & customization. Russian Volumes are more expensive because it is the art of handmaking fans in that exact moment, repeatedly throughout the entirety of an appointment.  

-How long does the appointment take? 

   The full-sest appointment takes anywhere from 90 mins-3 hours. It totally depends on the type of lash set. Classics or Russian/Volumes? It also depends on the individuals’ natural lashes. An average person has anywhere from 90 to 150. But there are some lucky individuals that have +200 (we call them “unicorn lashes”). Now times 2 because you have two eyes. That is why it takes a long time. We individually place little tiny extensions onto each and every single lash… sometimes multiple extensions to one natural lash (this is the Russian Volume method). It’s a breeze after your first appointment though! Most technicians I’ve met carry out timed fills. So 45 minutes of fill time, 60 mins, or 90 mins. Although some do go by weekly fills. Has it been 2, 3 or 4 weeks since your last fill? It all just depends so it’s better to ask at your consultation or over the phone upon scheduling. 

-What is the difference between lashes? 

   This is most definitely a loaded question! There’s *deep inhale* flat lashes, eclipse lashes, D curl, C curl, CC curl, L+, J curl, B curl…. then you have to decide on diameter (the thin-thickness of extension) so 0.03mm or 0.05 mm, or .12, .15, the list goes on. Then there is the choice of color and/or texture of lashes. Basically, you have the power to do anything and get really nitty gritty with your personalization.  

-It’s the same thing as at the nail salon, right? 

   No. You don’t go to your dentist and ask about your eyes just like you don’t go to you nail place to pay for lashes.  

-What is proper lash appointment attire & etiquette? 

   Attire: Anything comfortable for you to lie down in is appropriate attire. Most lash techs have blankets and pillows for comfort but if you want your headphones for added comfort, go right ahead (as long as you’re not a head bobber) Don’t wear any makeup or at least do not wear any EYE makeup. Also do not apply undereye concealer or eye cream before your appointment. Wearing thick undereye product can be the cause for undereye protective pads to not stick to the skin like they should resulting in the constant need to fix or re-tape the bottom lash line. Doing so can irritate or even bruise your eyeball. Not to mention take away valuable time that should be spent on lashing, not the eye pad.  

   Etiquette: calm demeanor, preferably no caffeine if it affects your ability to lie down with your eyes closed. No gum chewing. If you’re a hand talker, sit on them. Phone silenced, vibrate or set low. Don’t be expecting any important or lengthy calls during this time. Go to the bathroom prior (although the initial appointment is so long that it’s totally understandable to need to use the restroom) COME WITH CLEAN LASHES!!!!!! Seriously, this could be the difference between your lashes sticking well.

Here’s a little tidbit: It could take 2 to 3 fills to really know if lashes are going to stay put, work well, and be beneficial for you because most people still have intense oils from wearing mascara for so long OR because they KEEP putting oily mascara on with the lash extensions.  

I’m not going to put it lightly; lash extensions can be an investment BUT they also can be the best decision ever. Helping lessen or rid altogether, the use of makeup freeing up more routine time for you in your daily life. Lashes are not only for people who want to consistently fill them. They can also be for more temporary reasons like special occasions, vacations, holidays, pictures & headshots, etc… They truly are one of the most customizable services offered! 

-Maddy