Eyelash Extension FAQ
Here are the answers to your most frequently asked questions about eyelash extensions!
What are eyelash extensions, exactly?
Eyelash extensions are a semi-permanent eyelash enhancing service (semi-permanent due to the fact you naturally shed 3-5 lashes per day). Extensions are applied to a single natural lash and bonded with a professional adhesive. When a natural lash is ready to shed from the follicle, the extension will be attached to it. In turn, a new lash will grow from the root and a new extension will be applied during a fill.
What is the application procedure like?
The application process is relaxing and completely pain-free. Many clients even catch themselves falling asleep or taking a "lash nap" during the treatment! You will lay on a comfortable bed topped with memory foam and a neck supporting pillow. A cooling gel pad will be placed under your eyes to separate the lower lashes. You will then close your eyes for the duration of the service, and wake up with beautiful lashes!
How long does it take to apply lash extensions?
For the initial application or full set, appointments will take about 2 hours. An extra 15-20 minutes will be scheduled for new clients in order to fill out paperwork and have a thorough consultation where we will discuss the procedure, natural lash health, and style of extensions you want, as well as go over aftercare procedures.
Lash fills take an average of about 60-90 minutes.
How often do I need to get a fill?
We recommend coming in for a fill every 2-3 weeks. The majority of our clients come every 2 weeks, but many also come weekly, while others come every 3. Everyone’s natural lash cycle is different! It's extremely important to follow all aftercare procedures in order to get the most our of your lashes!
Do I have to do anything to prepare for the service?
Please arrive makeup free and with clean, freshly-washed lashes on the day of your service. If you wear contacts, please remove them before your appointment.
How do I take care of my Eyelash Extensions?
Clean the lashes properly, with lash-specific cleanser and brush 1-2 times daily.
Do not pick, tug, or pull on the lashes
Do not rub your eyes
NEVER use mascara or place strip lashes on the extensions.
Be careful near BBQ’s, fire, and avoid looking directly inside the oven when first opened. This may cause the lashes to singe.
Do not curl your lashes with a mechanical eyelash curler.
Why is proper cleansing of the lashes so important?
You MUST wash your eyelash extensions 1-2 times daily or the retention of your extensions cannot be guaranteed. Washing lashes also prevents dead-skin build up (gross!) Clean lashes are happy lashes and happy lashes last longer!
Eye infections such as blepharitis and conjunctivitis can also occur when lash health is neglected.
Can I apply mascara to Eyelash Extensions?
NEVER apply mascara to your extensions. Eyeshadow, eyeliner and other types of oil-free makeup is OK, but MUST be cleansed off very thoroughly at the end of the night with your lash cleanser.
Can I use eyelash curlers with Eyelash Extensions?
No! You run the risk of damaging the eyelash extensions if you crimp them. The great news is- lash extensions hold their curl! If you desire a more or less dramatic curl after your initial application, we are always able to make adjustments at your fill.
Can I swim, shower, exercise, or visit the spa while wearing eyelash extensions?
Absolutely! Eyelash extensions are intended to simplify your life. You may do all the normal activities you would usually do.
Can lash extensions damage or harm natural lashes?
If applied properly, no. However, if a technician applies lashes that are too long or too heavy for your natural lashes, or uses an improper technique, then yes, there is a risk they can be damaged. This is why it is so important to seek a licensed esthetician (or cosmetologist) and experienced lash artist who has advanced training, and puts time into continuing education. At Elite Esthetics, we put lash health first and pride ourselves on maintaining the health and integrity of your natural lashes. Each and every set of extensions are customized just for you!
Can eyelash extensions be removed?
Yes, eyelash extensions may be removed at any time and for any reason. The removal process is extremely quick and easy! We always recommend to have your extensions professionally removed so there will be no damage caused to the natural lashes during the removal process.
Are eyelash extensions suitable for everyone?
Unfortunately, not everyone is a candidate for eyelash extensions. If you have very short, very few, or very brittle natural lashes, lash extensions may not be for you.
If you have any eye infections, a corneal abrasion, blepharitis, a stye, or have recently had eye surgery, you are also NOT a current candidate for lash extensions.
What is the difference between classic eyelash extensions and volume eyelash extensions?
Classic eyelash extensions were the original eyelash extensions. They have a 1:1 ratio for extensions to natural lash. Diameters range from 0.10mm to 0.15mm. With this service, we can only get you about as full as your natural lashes are. It is a great, natural, mascara-type look!
Volume eyelash extensions have anywhere from a 2:1 ratio to 6:1 ratio for extensions to natural lash. They are extremely light, as diameters range from 0.05 to 0.07. It’s the weight of the extension that makes the difference in ratio possible. With the extensions weighing so much less than the classic version, we are able to apply many more extensions to the natural lash without adding any extra weight. In fact, most times the weight of 4-5 extensions on one natural lash will weigh less than one classic extension. Though volume lashes can still be used to create a natural look depending on the size of the fan used, if you desire more fullness, volume is definitely the way to go!
Hybrid lashes are a mix of both classic and volume lashes. A great “middle of the road” option for those who can’t decide which is best!
All extensions have varying lengths from 5mm to 15mm. Generally, with volume you choose a slightly shorter lash in exchange for the abundance of volume. A client’s natural lash health and length will always determine what lengths may be safely used.
How often do lashes cycle?
A full lash cycle can take anywhere from 21-90 days to complete. Everyone is different. If you have extensions put on and do not get them filled, you could wear them completely off in 4-6 weeks.
How does a lash cycle work?
Hair follows a specific growth cycle with three different phases that occur simultaneously.
Anagen is the growth stage where new hair is produced. These are “baby lashes”
Catagen is the transition stage where the hair shaft grows upward and detaches itself from the bulb. The hair follicle will actually shrink. The lower part of the follicle is destroyed and the dermal papilla, which is what nourishes the follicle, breaks away.
Telogen is the last growth stage. This is where you see lashes on your cheeks or lashes come out on the brush as you comb through your lash extensions. You don’t feel them fall out - this is part of the normal process of the replacement of the old hair with the new. There is virtually no bulb at the base. It is normal to have anywhere from 3-5 lashes fall out each day.