I Wish I Knew Before Getting Eyelash Extensions

By Author: Eyelash AND Eyebrow Extensions: Window Dressings f
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Recently, before my summer wedding, I got eyelash extensions for the first time at the recommendation of my favorite makeup artist. She said that semi-permanent lashes would pop in photos and stand up to wedding day ~emotion~ better than mascara. She was 100 percent right, and I felt totally glam on my wedding day.

But as someone who can't be trusted to cut her hair more than once a year, I didn't expect to be so into my new look that I'd want to continue getting lash extensions after my wedding. Plus, I had no idea how much the habit would cost me in terms of cash, time, and my health.

Here are some things I wish I knew before getting (and totally falling for) eyelash extensions:

1. Semi-permanent eyelash extensions are way different from temporary strip or individual lashes. Semi-permanent ones are applied by hand one lash at a time by a technician who glues extensions on top of your actual lashes, according to Courtney Akai, a New York City-based eyelash extension technician with more than 12 years of experience. They can last for six to eight weeks with proper care and remain on your natural lashes until ...
... they naturally fall out, as all lashes do.

2. Eyelash extensions aren't a one-size-fits-all-eyes situation. After you decide to get extensions, you have to make a whole lot of other decisions, beginning with the lash material, such as mink, silk, or some other kind of synthetic. (Mink is usually pricier, feels softer, and looks more natural; however, some synthetics, which are highly customizable, can also look and feel natural and end up costing as much as or more than mink.) Then, you'll have to pick your density (more lashes create a fuller look); curl (the steeper the slope, the more dramatic the effect); and length (a matter of personal preference, really).