LASH GUIDE FOR BEGINNERS
Many times, we have heard that the eyes are the window to our soul. It could not be any more real for a bride who opens her soul when marrying the love of her life.
Eyelash extensions have become popular of late. I frequently see women having these, all with varying volume and size. Before we begin to explore this trend, what is the purpose of these eyelash extensions?
When you perform a google search on eyelash extensions, the following words come up: enhance, thicker, curlier, natural-looking, dramatic, volume, lash lift (my personal favourite). With this comes a plethora of choices as to types of lashes, places you can go and varying costs.
From the eyes of a beginner, where do you even begin?
CHOICE OF LASHES
For simplicity, the focus will be on eyelash strips, eyelash extensions, and eyelash curl. Each has advantages, disadvantages, method of application and longevity. So, let’s explore these.
EYELASH STRIPS
Eyelash strips are applied to the natural eyelash using an adhesive. These are commonly used and can be tedious to put on the first time but with experience, easy to apply. A key advantage of using eyelash strips is that it can be used as a once-off to create multiple looks, depending on your mood and on occasion.
Another advantage to using eyelash strips is the price and convenience as these are readily accessible online and via cosmetics houses like Sephora. Most eyelash strips do contain an applicator which assists you to attach these to your lash line. Great for a novice.
A disadvantage in using eyelash strips is that if you do not clean your eyes properly after removal, eye infections can occur. The glue used can also cause eye infections.
EYELASH EXTENSIONS
Eyelash extensions come in three types of materials; (1) synthetic, which is quite inexpensive and can look good if you choose wisely. Keep in mind; you pay for what you get so cheap can look cheap. And on your special day, it is worth spending a bit extra so you can achieve the effect without it looking fake. (2) Silk – A slightly more expensive option is the silk, which provides a lighter, more natural look. (3) Mink – which is costly in comparison to the other two. Size varying from 6mm to 17mm.
Eyelash extensions are attached, one piece at a time, to your lashes; extending them. A semi-permanent adhesive is used, which can cause allergic reactions to some individuals. It is essential to be aware of this and discuss with the person applying the eyelashes.
It is a tedious process and can take up to two hours. If you are a novice, I recommend seeking a professional which is costly. To save costs, you can do a half set. However, maintenance is required. If looked after well, they can last from six to eight weeks.
Eyelash extensions do create that dramatic look. The higher the quality of lash, the more natural the look. And you do pay for what you get. For all brides considering eyelash extensions, these will give that ‘wow’ effect. Your eyes will pop on your wedding day. And because of the longevity of these, your eyes will keep looking fabulous right into your honeymoon.
As the individual eyelashes are attached to your natural eyelashes, it gives a more natural look. When you have eyelash extensions, you do not need to apply mascara which adds to the convenience of the product.
However, if you rub your eyes and pull on the eyelash extensions, you can damage your natural lashes which are not ideal. If you opt for a dramatic eyelash type like the ‘Russian Lashes’, your lashes can appear fake.
EYELASH LIFT
What I like about an eyelash lift is that the process works with your lashes. It does not interfere with the growth cycle of your lashes. It is curling or perming your lashes. To gain the full effect of these, you do need a decent volume of your lashes.
The procedure is quite simple. A tiny rubber cylinder is placed on your eyelid at the base of your eyelash. Then the beautician applies a paste to curl the lash. Then for added effect, the lashes are tinted.
The advantage of this is that your own lashes are used. The disadvantage is that these last 2-4 weeks if maintained with care. The price point of this is between the eyelash strip and eyelash extension.
As you can see, the choices are endless. If you want to enhance your eyelashes, choose what will work for you. Consider your price point and the effect you want. Perhaps three months before to the wedding, play around with different options and looks; you will know what is right for you. Happy lashing!!!