Thursday, May 21, 2009

Lashin' Out

Paris Hilton. Lindsay Lohan. J. Lo. Madonna. Those women have a lot in common. Besides their so-called “status,” celebrity-hood, drama, public break-ups and divorces, there’s another common characteristic that they all share: lash extensions.

Eyelash extensions were created in Asia, but soon moved their way west in the early 2000s. What started out as a celebrity-focused business has quickly turned into a consumer-focused industry. Salons – both large and small – are now offering the service as readily as they might offer a hair color treatment.

The process is simple, really. An individual synthetic lash is actually bonded to your real lash. In any given session, there are probably 50-75 lashes per eye applied. And unlike other beauty treatments, this isn’t harmful to your own lashes and it certainly doesn’t prohibit your real lash from growing. It just gives you an ultra sexy and flirty look year round.

Does it really work? YES! Pictures say it louder than words so I’ll just give you the visual proof:

And for the more adventurous consumer, there are even some companies that have colored lashes.


Sounds good, but what’s the damage? First time applications can run anywhere from $250 to $500, while refills run anywhere from $35 to $100. All of this, quite frankly, usually depends on your geographical location (it’s more expensive in LA and NY than it is in SA).

Having indulged in the luxury myself, I can pass along a bit of advice:
  • It’s important to go with someone who has a bit of experience with this process. Be leery of specials that sound too good to be true.
  • Make sure that they are applying individual lashes and not small clumps. While clumps can be effective for one night, for example, they won’t last as long as the individual lashes.
  • Be prepared to maintain them. In order for them to look their best, you have to take care of them and have regularly scheduled visits with your Lash Specialist. (I’ve got a great one, so let me know if you are interested. I’m happy to pass along her information.)
The newest fashion in beauty, this trend has even endured the recession. Companies who manufacture lashes are reporting record-breaking profits.

Blink it on!

1 comment:

  1. I always wondered about lash extensions. the colored ones are so neat... I would love them in blues and greens!

    ReplyDelete