Types of Eyelash Extensions:

There are many different types of eyelash extensions, and it really just depends on if you want real mink lashes or a synthetic lash. Sizes vary from 5mm-16mm and the style can also vary depending on the look you are trying to achieve.
- Classic lashes consist of one synthetic lash to one natural lash, giving your lashes a thicker appearance, but can only be as full as the amount of natural lashes you have.
- Volume lashes are much lighter and thinner allowing multiple lashes to be applied to one natural lash without damaging your lashes or feeling heavy and unnatural. This creates the appearance of maximum fullness and a dramatic look.
- Siberian Mink lashes are one of the best types of lashes on the market. They are made from real mink fur and create a great natural look and feel very light and soft.
- Hybrid lashes is just a term used when volume and classic are mixed together, giving the thickness and definition of classic lashes with the added fullness and dramatic appearance of volume lashes.
Classic lashes are likely to create the most natural but thick look, whereas volume lashes will create the most dramatic full look. The key to knowing which type of lash you want is to look at your own lashes and determine if you have fewer lashes, you'll most likely want to go with volume or hybrid lashes, but if you have a lot of lashes classic lashes may be the best option for you. Always ask your technician to help determine the look you are trying to achieve, as they have the best knowledge.
A great pictured description of eyelash extensions can be found HERE, and aside from my technician Jacqueline, I took bits and pieces of information from it.

Application Process:

You begin by laying down on essentially a message looking table, with your head at one end so your technician can easily apply the lashes from above. A clean piece of white gel tape is applied over your lower lashes so they do not get in the way of glueing on the top ones. Your lashes are then cleaned and brushed out and the process can begin. A natural lash is separated from your other lashes. A lash extension is then selected by the technician and the very tip is dipped into an adhesive glue. The lash extension is placed on top of your natural lash and allowed to dry. The whole process takes about two hours for a full set of lashes, and usually less time for a fill.

The glue can vary based on which salon you go to. It's important to know that 99% of the time, its not the glue that causes a reaction, but the technicians fault for not applying the lashes correctly. The glue should never come in contact with the skin and the eyelashes should be applied properly so to not touch the upper lid causing the extension to stab the lid creating a tear and irritation which could then lead to an infection. In the rare case that you are allergic, it just means that you are allergic, not that the glue is harmful, but according to my lash technician out of her 10 years of experience, she has only had two clients that have been allergic to the glue.

The specific type of glue Jacqueline uses (my eyelash girl) is called sugar lash pro and nm beauty glue, both do not have black carbon in them which are what most people react to if they have a reaction.

How long will they last:

Since each lash extension is attached to a single eyelash, they will fall out naturally along with each growth cycle of your current lashes. A touch up or fill is recommended every 2-4 weeks depending on how well you care for you new lash extensions and how fast your natural lashes fall out.

Care of your eyelashes:

It is important not to shower within 24 hours of getting your new lash extensions applied. Water can weaken the adhesive causing your extensions to fall off faster.
Avoid anything oil based as it can break down the adhesive also causing you extensions to fall out faster.
Is it okay to wear mascara? If you are planning on wearing mascara in addition to your lash extensions, it is best to apply the mascara only to the tips of the extensions. Be aware though that applying mascara on top of the extensions can cause them to become clumpy, uncomfortable and possibly fall out faster.
You may need to adjust the position of your sleep. If you are a stomach sleeper, sleeping on your face (your eyelashes) and laying on them could make the extensions lay differently, making them uncomfortable and more prone to fall out. (Yes, I have adapted the way I sleep and no longer lay my lashes on the pillow, I take the end of the pillow and curl it up so it stays away from my face!)
Lastly, it is important not to wash your eyes/scrub them. You can wash around your eyes with a mild soap and water but you will want to be careful when doing so. (This has actually been of the best benefits of having lashes is that I don't rub or scrub my eyes and eyelids like I use to. In turn, I feel like this has benefited the overall health and elasticity of my skin immensely). The Huffington Post writes The 6 Everyday Habits that can cause wrinkles and washing/scrubbing your eyelids is one of those.

Is it SAFE?

The biggest myth is that extensions ruin your natural lashes. This is FALSE. If applied correctly and properly by a skilled, licensed and experienced technician, they are completely safe and will not harm the growth or health of your natural lashes. Obviously, if you choose to pick at your lashes or rub them/tug on them, no matter your natural lash or extensions, your lashes will fall out, but extensions will not harm the growth of your current lashes or new lashes.

Why I LOVE Mine:

It is so true, I totally feel like I can wake up on most days and say "I woke up like this" and actually feel like I can go out in public with little to know make up on and still look presentable. I rarely wear eye make up, my go-to would be foundation, some blush, bronzer and a little mascara on my bottom lashes. This makes getting ready so incredibly easy, especially for those days that I'm running behind and struggling to get out of the door. I just throw on some clothes, a little make up and I'm out the door. If you're looking for the dramatic yet natural lash that I get, go with the volume 2-3D lash extensions. However, Jacqueline will know what will look best on you and how to acheive the look of mine, so be sure to ask her!

iLash Beauty Bar

Jacqueline has 10 years of experience and does an amazing job in every service that she offers. I would highly recommend you to go see her! The great part is she has moved locations and is now located in Forest Lake, MN. Her studio is adorable, well maintained and very inviting. If this interests you, click on the links below for more details!

For more information on pricing click Eyelash Extensions Pricing

To BOOK with Jacqueline Click HERE

STAY TUNED for a Fun Giveaway happening on February 19th that Jacqueline and I will be hosting! You will not wanna miss out!