Frequently Asked Questions for Extensions
Eyelash Extensions FAQ
What are eyelash extensions?
Eyelash extensions are used to enhance the length, curliness, and fullness of your natural lashes just like how mascara, eyelash curlers, and strip lashes do! There are many techniques, lash styles, brands, and material in the lash community. Every technician is one of a kind!
Will my real lashes fall off?
Your natural lashes sheds 2-5 lashes each eye every single day! So don't be afraid when you see your real lash attached to your extensions when they fall, it is a healthy and normal cycle. This is why you need to come back every 2-3 weeks for a fill!
However, if you PULL off your lashes, prematurely, this will cause it to fully regrow in about 2-3 months! So do not try to pull off your extensions, let them shed or get them professionally removed
Will extensions damage my real lashes?
If applied properly, maintained properly, and with extensions that are suitable for your real lashes, they will NOT damage your real lashes! This means not only extensions should be applied correctly, but should be the a healthy LENGTH, DIAMETER, and WEIGHT for your lashes
Failure to suit these needs can cause damage to natural lashes, consult with me to recommend what size, weight, and kind of lashes that is the best option for you
How long do extensions last?
With proper care and the best retention, extensions can last up to when your natural lashes shed. An average person would shed roughly 20% of their lashes every 2 weeks, which is why we need a fill every 2-3 weeks!
What are classic lashes?
Classic lashes can achieve the most natural look as if you have applied on mascara. However this set would need a dense lash line and strong lashes for a fuller look
They are created using one single extension to one real lash, This means if you have a lot of lashes, you will have a lot of extensions! If there is no lash, there is no extension
Because of this, if you have sparse, thin, weak, or even a gap in your lashes, you would need a Hybrid or a Volume set
What are hybrid lashes?
Want a little more coverage than Classics but not ready for volume? Hybrid lashes is the blending of both Classic and Volume eyelash extension techniques.
Hybrid lashes is the "middle" between Classics and Volume lashes, it may also create a wispy appearance due to the mixing of the different extension types.
What are volume lashes?
Volume lashes can achieve a "strip lash" or dramatic look. However, this doesn't mean ALL volume sets are dramatic! This technique is made with 3-10 very thin extensions made into a fan shape before being applied to one natural lash
Volumes are perfect for sparse, thin, or weak lashes since it can cover any gaps and create the illusion of having more lashes and a full lash line!
It sounds heavy, but fans are made with a THINNER and LIGHTER lash extensions so this is still healthy for your natural lashes when applied correctly
How long or short can extensions be?
Eyelash extensions can be both short and long. The average natural lash length is 10 millimeters and there are many lash extensions sizes in the world ranging from what I have seen from 6mm to 25mm
(Note: Size groupings are very subjective, this is my personal size grouping but others may think 15mm is short or 12mm is long!)
What kind of lashes should I get?
This depends on your personal style and what kind of lashes you have! I will consult with you before we start lashing. We would need to decide what technique, curl, length, and style to lash on you
For example:
- If you have sparse lashes you may not get a Classic set, but rather a Hybrid or Volume set
- If you have mono-lids or hooded eyes, you would need a curlier curl or a specialty curl
- If you have 'downturned' eyes, you may need a "Doll Eye" style
What is bad for my extensions?
Oils, HEAT and excess MOISTURE are enemies to any adhesive! But don't think you should never clean your lashes! Cleansing lashes is ESSENTIAL. After a cleanse with a proper shampoo, pat dry or fan your lashes dry and brush them
Take a look at any oil-based products you're using and make sure to avoid your eyes or switch to oil-free products
If you excessively sweat due to working out or physical activity, you may experience that you retain less compared to someone who is more sedentary. This also means if it's the summer and you get hot too! Wipe those eyelids clean as oils produce on your eyelids
More Aftercare Instructions Here
How do I know if my products are oil based?
Check if these following ingredients apply:
- Rosehip Oil
- Sunflower Oil
- Jojoba Oil
- Argan Oil
- Olive Oil
- Vegetable Oil
- Coconut Oil
- Canola Oil
- Mineral Oil
Of course this isn't a complete list as there are many ingredients in the world, but I hope I give you an idea of what to look out for. If you're in doubt, look for oil-free!
Can I wear makeup?
Of course! but to remove makeup you must use an oil free makeup wipe or cleanser and lint free applicators instead of cotton swabs. Wash those lashes every day in order to clean off the makeup residue. You may use eye makeup and eyeliner, but:
NO mascara (bottom lashes ok)
NO eyelash curlers
NO false lashes
NO waterproof makeup
It is best to avoid gel-based, wax based (such as pencil) or waterproof liners, as they can get stuck onto your lashes. Non waterproof liquid eyeliner is the best option. Powder eyeshadow rather than cream and paste shadows
Can I use lash serums?
I would not recommend serums on top of extensions as they may affect retention, but it is still possible to use DEPENDING on the brand and ingredient list. Of course it is best to not use any at all to be safe. Although during lash extension breaks, it is good to keep your lashes healthy by doing so!
Lash serums are applied on top on your LASH LINE between the skin and base of your lashes, not throughout your lashes
Can I swim?
After the 24-48 hours of your appointment, Yes! But if you are swimming in chlorinated or salty water, splash your extensions with fresh water afterwards and wash them with a proper cleanser as soon as possible as chlorine or saltwater can shorten the lash extension retention
Can I get extensions while pregnant?
You mostly can! Although lashing during late pregnancy may be uncomfortable due to laying down for about 1 or 2 hours. Plus the hormonal changes in your body can cause more shedding of your lashes. Due to the need to stay still and and long procedures, it is not recommended to get lashes in advanced pregnancy as this may be hard and uncomfortable to achieve.
I am new to extensions, why am I having retention issues?
Did you wet your lashes, sweat, steamed, or even cried the first 24 hours?
This will not make the glue properly cure, causing premature fallout
Did you accidentally rub or pull your extensions?
You have to change your routines and lifestyle to get used to lashes! Just like when having longer nails. It will take a few visits to get used to incorporate them into your daily routine
Do you wash your lashes daily?
Even though you cannot wet lashes after 24 hours, this doesn't mean you can't wet them - Ever! Dead skin cells can build up on the eyelids and cause itchiness and inflammation. Extensions will actually have BETTER retention when cleaned!
I normally have great retention, why am I having retention issues?
Is it becoming Fall or Spring?
Fall and Spring shed is a real phenomenon! This is due to the dramatic weather change, book a fill every 2 weeks to retain a full look
Is it Summer?
The excess sweat and oil on your eyelids can effect your extensions, to minimize this wipe your eyelids! Also your lashes grow more in the summer due to the production of oils, book infills every 2 weeks to keep a fresh look
Have you've been excessively stressed?
Stress makes your lashes shed a lot more than normal!
May be pregnant?
Your body is experiencing a lot of hormone fluctuations! Your lashes may become thin and shed often.
Are you taking diet pills, birth control, vitamins, or any hormonal medication?
Just like pregnancy, these medications causes changes in your hormones that can cause greater shedding! Be wary that due to this you may not have the best retention. This also apply if you had a CHANGE in medications or started new medications/vitamins
NOTE:
If I notice that there are retention issues with multiple clients, then I will then conclude that it is my fault such as my glue, humidity, and technique