What are Lash extensions?
This is an innovative process using specially formulated, ultra-light, synthetic fibres of varying lengths, curvatures, and thicknesses. Each strand is applied one by one to the natural lash without ever coming in contact with your skin. The final result is a stunning look that will make you say goodbye to daily mascara application!
Is it a safe process?
Absolutely! Health and safety come first with the application process. My studio adheres to a rigorous sanitation protocol. Your eye-zone is carefully covered with protective patches. I use hypoallergenic extensions which are applied using a high-quality adhesive specially formulated for eyelash extensions. This is a medical-grade glue also used in ophthalmic surgery. Misencil products do not contain any harmful ingredients and are manufactured in laboratory facilities in Canada. They have undergone years of development and laboratory testing and are all registered with Health Canada.
What can I expect from my first appointment?
This is not a rushed process. I like to take time to discuss the look that you are trying to achieve – whether it is lush and glamorous, or full and natural. I take into account face and eye shape, and the state of ones existing lashes to determine the type of application and extensions to use. This is a completely painless and relaxing treatment during which you are lying down comfortably in the privacy of my studio. It is not uncommon for my clients to fall asleep during this process! You can expect your first appointment to take anywhere from 1 hour ¼ to 2 hours depending upon the agreed application.
Extensions should not damage your natural lashes, nor should they affect the health of your eyes. However, as the popularity of lash extensions grows exponentially, there exists a wide range of standards in the industry. There are 3 things that consumers should be mindful of when making the choice to have this process done.
Choose a properly certified and trained technician, preferably one that has ongoing in-service and education within the industry
Inquire about the glue adhesive being used. Is it free of formaldehyde and other harmful products? Is it approved and regulated by Health Canada?
Consider the products that are used in the process. A quality, long-lasting application is achieved with innovative techniques and a line of products specially formulated for eyelash extensions and which meets or exceeds all of the industry standards.
Are lash extensions damaging to natural lashes?
When properly applied and maintained, a full set of lashes can last for 3 to 5 weeks. I encourage you to refer to my “After Care” section for recommendations on ways in which to care for your lashes. These are just a few simple steps to build into your daily routine in order to maximize their longevity and to keep them looking at their best!
How long do they last?
Your natural lashes follow a growth cycle in which they shed on average, every 60 days, while new lashes are continually growing in and maturing. Lash extensions do not fall off your lashes, but rather, are formulated to adhere permanently to your natural lash, and shed normally as each one cycles through this lifespan. Two to 3 weeks is a recommended time to receive a touch-up to “fill” in the new natural lashes that have grown in, and to maintain your fabulous and voluminous look. A touch-up requires less time to do, and is reflected in the pricing.
What is a “fill” or “touch-up”?
If a client experiences some kind of discomfort following a lash extension application, it is important to determine whether it is an irritation or an allergic reaction. Though quite rare, it is possible for someone to have an allergic reaction, or to develop a sensitivity to the glue adhesive (cyanoacrylate). Some of the symptoms may include redness, itchiness or swelling along the lash line. If it is a true allergic response, ones body produces histamine. One way to test suspicion of a cyanoacrylate-based allergy is to see whether your body responds positively to anti-histamine medications such as Benadryl or Claritin. Anyone with concerns about allergies is welcome to come in prior to a scheduled appointment for a patch test using the adhesive.
Alternately, a lash extension wearer may experience an irritation following an application. This can be caused by an array of factors. Sufferers from seasonal allergies, or inflammatory skin conditions, such as eczema and rosacea, can find that their symptoms are exacerbated when wearing lash extensions. A more common cause for irritation is simply because the new wearer is hesitant to clean or touch the new lashes. Regular washing and cleansing the eye-zone is essential. I refer you to my After Care section for simple steps for lash hygiene. And finally, it is the responsibility of a skilled technician to ensure that applied lashes do not touch the skin of your lash-line where they could potentially irritate the eyelid area.