Get the most out of your treatment with these rules
Besides mascara and false lashes, one of the easiest ways to fake length and volume is with a full set of eyelash extensions. Not only are they semi-permanent, lasting a couple of weeks at a time before the need to get infills, they can also shave off time in the morning (it’s not necessary to apply mascara over the top of them) and they're the perfect way to add drama to your eye makeup.
For those getting lash extensions for the first time, the application process can seem lengthy: Whether you're after a natural look or something with a bit more volume, it entails a lash artist painstakingly applying individual lashes with a long-lasting adhesive to your own set of hairs. So, due to the delicate nature of this technique, it’s incredibly important to look after them daily, too.
We spoke with Tilly Barnett, facialist, lash technician and owner of No. 13 The Beauty Avenue in Sydney, for her pro tips for extending the life of your eyelash extensions.
1
Steer clear of water
Straight after getting your lashes done, you should avoid water and steam for at least four hours. “Water, steam, excessive heat and even spray tans can affect the bond of the glue,” says Barnett. But beyond the first four hours post-treatment, shower and wash your face as you usually would. If you get your lashes wet, “pat them gently with a towel to dry, and avoid rubbing the eyes,” explains Barnett. “You can also use a hairdryer on a low setting, blowing from the root to the tip.”
2
Nourish your hairs
It’s recommended to apply a lash serum daily to condition your natural eyelashes. Try Apot.Care Optilash Lash Enhancing Serum, which is loaded with polypeptides to encourage lash growth and strengthen each individual hair.
3
Be careful with makeup
Tempted to wear mascara over your new lashes to make your eyes look even bigger? Barnett recommends going easy on the product. “If using mascara, only apply to the tips of your lash extensions, and avoid using lash curlers.” At the end of the day, use an oil-free eye makeup remover to cleanse your lashes and your eye area, and avoid excessive rubbing. You might also want to steer clear of fake lashes for the time being if you have lash extensions, as the lash adhesive could accidentally stick to your extensions and therefore pull them out when you take the strip off.
4
Brush them up
Don’t forget to give your lash extensions a brush - but avoid overdoing it. “When you wake up in the morning or after a shower is the only time you really need to give them a good brush with a clean spoolie,” says Barnett.
5
Avoid picking
It may be tempting to pluck a misbehaving lash extension out, but you could be doing more damage than you think. “Never pull out or pick at a lash extension or you may break adhesive bonds and damage natural lashes,” finishes Barnett. “Just give them an upward brush back in place.”
Want to up your eye makeup game? Here's exactly how to do it.
Main image credit: Getty
Iantha is BEAUTYcrew's Beauty Editor, and has been part of the team since the site launched in 2016. Besides pinky-nude nail polish and wispy false lashes, she has a healthy obsession with face masks and skin care ingredients. Her previous work can be found in Virgin Australia Voyeur, Women's Health, and SHOP Til You Drop.
