"It's the best beauty decision I've ever made"
Eyelash extensions are one of beauty's biggest timesavers. Imagine waking up every morning and already having a full set of dark and fluttery lashes resting above your eyeballs like you're fricken Bambi.
False lashes are great for a temporary fix, but if you'd rather not fuss around with glue and are looking for a longer term option, eyelash extensions are the one.
Take it from GLAMOUR UK Fashion Editor, Charlie, who had hers first put in two years ago, and has been going for refills ever since.
Here, she shares the dos and don'ts she's learnt over the years for keeping her lash extensions in tip-top condition...
DON'T get them wet for 24 hours
To ensure the glue has proper time to set, and will give your extensions the best chance at lasting, you should avoid getting them wet for the first 24 hours. This including hitting the gym (sweat) or going for a steam or sauna. Moisture of any kind should be avoided.
DO brush them once a day
When you go for your first appointment, you should be given a special brush to use to comb your extensions. This should be done once a day to avoid them from becoming tangled and keep them looking as lush as possible.
DON'T use oil-based products
The biggest warning you'll be given for taking care of your extensions is to avoid oil-based products, as they can break down the glue and cause them to fall out. This not only means skincare, but makeup as well. You can use mascara on your extensions if you wish, but it should definitely NOT be oil-based.
DO clean them with a 'special' eyelash cleaner
If you're unsure if your current skincare products are oil-based, it's better to be safe and switch to a specific eyelash shampoo. You don't have to use it every day (if you're not wearing mascara - and with extensions you'll probably find you don't need to), but 2-3 times a week will help keep your lashes cleansed and moisturised, without compromising the adhesive bonds.
DON'T go in with eye makeup on
When going for your eyelash extension appointments, go without eye makeup on to save time. They'll only have to remove it anyway, so it's better to go in prepared.
DO get them refreshed every 2-3 weeks
Eyelash extensions do need maintenance, so to keep them looking fluffy and natural it's best to go every 2-3 weeks. You can usually book in for 15 minutes slots (depending on how many you need to be replaced). The longer you leave it between appointments, the longer you'll likely need for a refill.
DON'T pull them out
Your lash extensions will naturally fall out as they wear and, as tempting as it can be, do not pull them out yourself because this can do damage to your natural lash and eyelid. Either head in for a refill, or to have them professionally removed.
DON'T just go to the first place you find
Eyelash extensions applied correctly are amazing, but applied wrong they can compromise your natural lash greatly. Do your research when choosing a place and don't be afraid to head in for a consultation. Perfect Lash and Boudoir Lashes London are Charlie's recommendations.
DO have a break
If you're planning to commit to lash extensions long term, it's a good idea to give your natural lashes a break every now and then. Just one month off in a year should suffice.
Original story from GQ UK
