Eyelash Extensions 101

I first started looking into lash extensions during my bridal hair/makeup trials last year. I didn’t like the look of fake eyelashes, and I wanted something a little more natural that would still allow my eyes to “pop” in wedding photos. My friend Kacy had extensions that looked amazing, so after a bit of research I got the number of her lash gal and off I went.

Best and worst decision I’ve ever made. Best, because I can’t even describe how confident and beautiful they make me feel. Worst, because I never want to live without them. Ever. For about two months I got sick of the maintenance and tried to go natural, but I missed them too much. I get a ton of questions (and compliments!) about them, and I wanted to share my answers with y’all. Check them out below.

Q: Ok, so what ARE lash extensions?

A: They’re synthetic lashes glued to your natural lashes. My girl Jordan literally glues an extension to every lash, which is why my results are so dramatic and still look good weeks later! But having them glued to your lashes vs. a strip of false lashes is why they look so much more natural.

Q: Are extensions expensive?

A: Yes and no. Salon extensions are very expensive, but my lash gal works out of her home, has no overhead, and is way reasonable. As in, fills cost me about as much as a mani/pedi. #worthit.

Q: How long does it take to get them done? 

A: I get them filled about every 3-3.5 weeks and it takes about an hour.  (Again, about the commitment of a mani/pedi.) Your initial set takes about 2 hours.

Q: Do extensions damage your lashes? 

A: Not if you go to the right technician. Make sure you are going to someone with credentials, not someone in the back of a nail salon. Seriously. Don’t do it.

Q: Can you swim/bike/play extreme sports with them? 

A: Yep! (Except why are you playing extreme sports? Stop that.) That’s one of my favorite things about them-other than the time spent for fills, they are low maintenance. Swimming, exercise, etc. is all fine and you look good doing it!

I’ve never had a high-maintenance beauty routine, but this is a fun splurge that to me is 100% worth it. They’re #iwokeuplikethis gorgeous and I find myself wearing way less makeup because I love the way I “naturally” look. It’s amazing!

Still wondering if extensions are right for you? Check out this great article. If you’re in the Charlotte area and want my lash gal’s contact info, email me: rebellekitchen@gmail.com.