Eyelash Extensions Pros & Cons: What to Know Before Getting Extensions
When eyelash extensions first hit the beauty scene in the early 2000s, they quickly became one of the most sought-after beauty treatments for their ability to deliver va-va-voom lashes. However, as the years have passed, data has emerged about potential complications associated with this service, and consumers have gained a more realistic perspective on the long-term maintenance required.
Still, that’s not to say that lash extensions aren’t worth considering at all. When skillfully and carefully executed, these individually applied lash hairs can look surprisingly natural and make you feel effortlessly beautiful. We’ll explain everything you need to know to decide if lash extensions are the right eye care choice for you.
What are Lash Extensions?
Lash extensions are made from silk fibres, mink, or synthetic materials that resemble natural lash hairs. Each extension is attached one by one (or up to four at a time) to the base of your natural lash hair with a semi-permanent adhesive. Depending on the look you want to achieve, anywhere from 60 to 140 individual lashes will be applied to each eye.
How Long Do Eyelash Extensions Last?
Eyelash extensions typically hold up well for the first two weeks, assuming you’re being careful with how you maintain them and how you remove your eye makeup. By the third week, they tend to start looking less cohesive from wear and tear. Around this time, you’ll likely notice some of your natural lashes have fallen out as part of their normal shedding cycle, with the extensions attached to them gone too, so you’ll see some gaps in coverage.
The longevity of your lash extensions is a highly variable experience, with some people reporting they can make their eyelash extensions last for up to four weeks (in rare cases, even longer). Others may find they need to get them touched up every two weeks
What are the Pros and Cons of Eyelash Extensions?
PROS:
- They’re instantly gratifying. Unlike lash growth products that take several weeks to produce results, extensions instantly amp up lashes and can look stunning when they’re applied well.
- They can save you time. Except for the time spent during the service appointment, you’re likely to spend less time on your makeup routine when you have lash extensions.
- You won’t have to worry about your mascara flaking, running, or smearing, because with lash extensions, you don’t need mascara. This is a major bonus if you know you’ll be shedding tears at a special event like your wedding. And if you dread the nightly process of having to use a makeup remover to take off mascara, you won’t have to deal with that anymore, either.
- They transform your look. If you have stick-straight or short lashes, extensions amplify curl and lengthen in ways that mascara cannot. This can be a total game-changer for some people. There’s no way around it — even the best mascaras out there can’t compete with lash extensions.
CONS:
- They're an expensive habit. You can generally expect to spend anywhere from $120 to $300 for your first full set of lashes (prices vary by salon and skill level). Refills (typically needed every two to three weeks as lashes begin to shed as part of the natural hair cycle) cost around $50–$100 per visit. If you do the maths, that's potentially thousands spent on your lash extensions every year — money that could instead go toward eye care products online, like a high-quality firming eye cream and eye serum that benefit your skin every day.
- They're high maintenance. Applying a full set of new lashes can take anywhere from 90 to 180 minutes. Refill appointments don’t take as long, though they are still time-consuming considering the frequency of touch-ups required. You also must be sure to properly care for lash extensions in between fills and avoid rubbing or pulling at your lashes throughout the day.
- They can potentially result in lash hair loss and other complications. More on that below…
Do Eyelash Extensions Ruin Your Lashes?
In some cases, eyelash extensions can ruin your natural lashes, causing temporary or permanent lash loss. Keep in mind that the longer and heavier (aka more volumised) style of lash extensions you opt for, the more stress you put on your own lashes. This can cause your natural lashes to fall out, or worse yet, the extensions can permanently damage the hair follicle, leading to lash loss.
Other lash extension complications include:
- Allergic reactions to the glue used to attach the extensions
- Eye infections from contact with unsanitary tools
- Infected follicles from two lashes being glued together
- Clogged follicles caused by the lash glue, which can result in a stye
- Eyelids that become sensitised (red, dry, itchy)
There have also been documented cases, although rare, where extension fibres have gotten into the eye and required removal by a medical professional. Not everyone will experience these issues, but it’s important to be aware that there are potential risks with lash extensions.
How do I Prepare for Eyelash Extensions?
To prepare for eyelash extensions, ensure you remove all makeup and arrive with clean skin (especially around the eye area). Your technician will be taping your lower lashes down to your skin and placing hydrating eye pads on top. This is done to prevent the glue from getting on the lower part of your eye as lashes are applied.
Dress comfy (you’ll be laying on your back for roughly a couple of hours — and yes, some people fall asleep during the service). You may also want to come prepared with headphones to listen to music or your favourite podcast to help pass the time.
A few other tips to help you prepare for the best possible experience:
- Research your local lash extension pros ahead of time. This is not the time to cash in on a flash sale and book an appointment on a whim. For the best results, your lash technician should be a professionally certified aesthetician trained in an established method of application. Don't be embarrassed to ask about credentials and to see pictures of their prior work; the best lash extension pros will be proud to show you these.
- If you have a known allergy to latex, call ahead to make sure the service provider carries latex-free eyelash adhesive. Reputable lash technicians will likely ask you about this ahead of your appointment (many have you complete an intake form where you can mention any allergies). Lash adhesives may contain other ingredients that you may be allergic to, so it’s never a bad idea to request a patch test 48 hours prior to your service.
- If you’re on oral isotretinoin medication, inform your lash technician and proceed with caution. According to the British Cosmetic Dermatology Group, there is a connection between cases of blepharitis (agitated eyelid skin) in patients who are on isotretinoin while having this service performed.
- Be very clear about what style of lash extensions you want. Do you want fluttery yet natural-looking lashes or is over-the-top length and volume what you’re going for? Do you want a doll eye look or lashes that accentuate the outer corners for more of a cat eye effect? Well-trained lash technicians will help walk you through different style options that are available, but you may also want to bring a picture of the style you want (similar to the way you might show your hairstylist a picture as inspiration).
What Can You Not Do After Eyelash Extensions?
- Do not use mascara on top of lash extensions (mascara can build up and snag the extensions, causing them to fall out prematurely).
- Be careful how you apply makeup and avoid oil-based skincare products around the eye area. Even something as innocent-seeming as an emollient eye pencil or concealer can break down the eyelash glue. Avoid applying heavy eyeliner or eye makeup as removing it tends to tug at the lashes, resulting in more fallout.
How to Clean Your Eyelash Extensions
To clean eyelash extensions, use an oil-free cleanser or makeup remover (oils will break down the glue’s adhesion). If your lash technician has a dedicated lash cleanser that they recommend, double check the ingredient list to make sure it's fragrance-free (fragrance can irritate the delicate eye area and the eyes themselves).
Lash experts and ophthalmologists also suggest gently cleansing the skin around your lash extensions daily to remove the buildup of oil and other debris. This is important to prevent infection and other issues. Be extra careful when washing your eye area as any movement of your lashes will increase the likelihood of the extensions falling out or getting twisted around. Avoid rubbing the eye area with a washcloth or towel.
Some lash extension salons carry special eyelash/eyelid cleansing brushes, which can help make the process easier (these can also be found online).
The exact technique for cleaning your lash extensions varies depending on the expert you ask. Some suggest wetting lashes, then carefully applying the cleanser to the extensions with a lash brush, working it through from the root tip and then rinsing. Others have their own unique methods for preserving the lash extension integrity. This is something you should discuss with your lash technician.
Avoid cotton balls or swabs, which can get caught in the extensions.
Can You Shower with Fake Eyelashes On?
Yes, you can shower with lash extensions on. Try not to let water from the shower fall directly on your face as the pressure will make the lash extension loosen and shed faster.
How about swimming in a pool or the sea after getting lash extensions? If you just had your service done that day, most technicians recommend letting them set for four to eight hours. If you’re doing laps in the pool or splashing in waves, you might want to consider wearing goggles to minimise the disturbance to your lash extensions.
Your lash technician should give you a spoolie brush for the maintenance of your lashes after your appointment. Use this post-shower or post-swim to gently brush through your extensions. This will help reshape lashes that are beginning to cling together or are pointing in different directions.
How Do You Sleep With Eyelash Extensions?
Lash pros typically recommend sleeping on your back in order to avoid any friction that could cause your eyelash extensions to rub off or become misshapen. If you cannot break the habit of sleeping on your side/stomach, try to at least minimise how much you press your face into your pillow. A couple other things that may help:
- 3D eye masks (these are designed in a contour dome style to protect and allow space for your lash extensions)
- Silk pillowcases (reduces friction against lash hairs to a certain degree)
Each morning comb through your lashes to gently reshape them. Just be careful — if you tug too much, they can loosen and fall out prematurely. Generally, your extensions will hold up well if you are very careful in how you take care of them and schedule regular touch-ups to compensate for your lashes’ natural shedding cycle.
Understanding Eyelash Extension Volume
“Volume lashes” (also known as “Russian volume”) refers to a technique where multiple eyelash extensions are attached to one natural lash in a fanned-out effect. In lash artist lingo, if two extensions are applied to one natural lash, it’s called 2D, if three eyelash extensions are applied to one natural eyelash, it’s called 3D, and so on. Depending on the level of eyelash extension volume you’re going for, the technician may attach up to 16 extensions to one natural lash (this is commonly referred to as “mega volume”).
A key difference with volume lashes is that the extensions used for this method are thinner in diameter than classic lash extensions. Volume lashes are described as “fluffier”, and this method is intended to deliver a fuller lash look.
Is Getting Lash Extensions Worth It?
The bottom line: Lash extensions can be gorgeous, but they're not for everyone. It comes down to your own budget, time allotment, and willingness to comply with the after-care guidelines. And perhaps most importantly, complications from lash extensions should be taken into consideration. Seek prompt evaluation and treatment if you develop changes in or around the eye area following the lash service.
Want to enhance your eyes without getting eyelash extensions? You can use targeted eye care products to improve how the area around your eyes look. Choose products like eye brightening cream, eye firming cream, and potent eye serums for a visible effect. Shop eye care products online from Paula’s Choice Skincare now.
References for this Information:
Contact Dermatitis, November 2016, pages 317-319
American Academy of Ophthalmology, February 2018, ePublication
Docquity, August 2024, ePublication
British Journal of Dermatology, July 2021, pages 77-78
Medical Hypothesis, Discovery & Innovation Ophthalmology Journal, Summer 2019, pages 96-103
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