Eyelash extensions are used to lengthen and thicken natural eyelashes. They are also a great time-saver in the morning as there is no need to apply mascara. What are eyelash extensions, their methods and price? How long does the procedure take, what are the effects and how to take care of the lashes afterwards? Who is it recommended for and what are the contradictions?

What are eyelash extensions?

This is a procedure in which false lashes are attached onto natural lashes. It is much more complicated than applying eyelash strips or individual lashes (they are available in every drugstore). Eyelash extensions require caution, practice and complying with the rules of hygiene, because the procedure involves work with metal tools, strong glue and delicate hairs in close proximity to the eyes. All of this prove that eyelash extensions should be performed only be a professional beautician.

For the sake of safety, the beautician applies the lashes not just at the root but a millimetre lower.

This reduces the risk of eye irritation and allergic reaction to the adhesive.

Eyelash extensions – methods

The most popular methods of eyelash extensions are:

• 1 to 1 method (1: 1),
• 2 to 1 method (2: 1),
• 3 to 1 method (3: 1).

There are also 4 to 1 (4: 1), 5 to 1 (5: 1), etc. up to 10 to 1 (10: 1) methods. Each of them involves attaching a number of false eyelashes to natural ones. All methods are equally durable, but the effect is different. Although the method s chosen by the client, the beautician may suggest a different, better solution on the basis of their density, length and general condition. The choice of the method is quite essential due to the fact that false lashes not only thicken and extend natural eyelashes, but also optically enlarge the eyes.

• 1 to 1 method (also know as 1: 1) is most commonly chosen due to the natural effect and low price. It involves gluing one false eyelash on one natural eyelash.
• 2 to 1 method (2: 1) involves gluing two false lashes to each natural eyelash. In this way, eyelashes are thicker and more expressive.
• 3 to 1 method (3: 1) in which three false lashes are glued to each natural eyelash. Thanks to this, the effect is more spectacular.
• 4 to 1 method (4: 1) to 10 to 1 (10: 1) differ from the other methods and from each other only by the number of false eyelashes glued to natural eyelashes.

In 1:1 method synthetic, silk or natural hair from Siberian minks is used. Other methods make use solely of Siberian minks fur because they are the lightest and thus the least overloading for natural lashes.

How long does the procedure take?

Eyelash extensions last from two to three hours depending on the condition and density of natural eyelashes, the chosen method and the experience of the beautician. Unfortunately, the person who has her eyelashes done must stay still with her eyes closed all this time.

Eyelash extensions – effects

The effect should last for 3-4 weeks. The condition of the lashes and the care applied after the procedure determine the durability of the procedure. Our natural lashes fall out and are replaced with new ones, in order to keep the effect the false eyelashes should be refilled (at least once a month).

Eyelash extensions are a durable procedure. If the application is correctly done, your eyelashes can easily withstand:

• doing sports,
• sweating,
• swimming in the pool or the sea,
• sauna,
• make-up and its removal.

Still, it’s recommended to avoid using a waterproof mascara that overloads the lashes. In addition, it’s extremely difficult to remove and intensive eye rubbing can damage delicate eyelashes.

Eyelash extensions – for whom?

This is a great solution for those who believe that their lashes are insufficiently thick and long. Regardless of the method chosen, the effect is visible and durable. It is recommended for active women who do sports or just want to save some time in the morning.

Eyelash extensions – contraindications

Contraindication to the procedure are very sensitive eyes, eye diseases and eye irritation, allergy near the eyes.

How to take care of extended eyelashes?

This procedure will not deteriorate the condition of your lashes provided that you take care of them properly. In fact, false eyelashes should be treated as natural lashes – they require cleaning. It is best to clean the lashes with a mild soap, gel or micellar water.

Eyelash extensions – cost

As a matter of fact, eyelash extensions are not the cheapest treatments available mainly because of the effort. However, the price depends on many factors, such as the location of a beauty salon, the experience of a beautician, and the methods and materials used.