What are Eyelash Extensions and how do I choose a Lash Artist?

Updated February 2022.

This is the most common question I get asked so I thought I would explain for everyone, step by step.

There are various types of eyelash extensions available. The main semi-permanent extensions are;

- Classic Individual Lashes are one individual eyelash extension that is applied to each of your own individual eyelashes.

- Hybrid Lashes are a mix of individual lashes and volume fans applied to each of your natural lashes.

- Volume Lashes are a number of lighter lashes that are handmade in to a fan by the Lash Technician, once they have created the perfect fan this will be applied to your own individual eyelash this is known as Russian Volume. Premade Volume is using fans already made and then applying them to each of your natural lashes.

Your lash technician will discuss with you the look you would like, the health of your natural eyelashes and will confirm what weight of lashes she will use. The average eye has between 90-120 eyelashes.

What should I look for when selecting a Lash Artist?

Ask to see photos of their work, check their website, Instagram and Facebook pages for photos and reviews.

Confirm they have public liability insurance and can show you the certificate.

You can also request to see their qualification certificates.

A reputable lash technician will not complete your lash treatment until they have carried out a patch test 48 hours before your first treatment. This is to try and protect you from any potential adverse reactions and is usually a requirement of our public liability insurance policy.

What should I expect at the patch test appointment?

At your patch test appointment the lash technician will ask you to complete a consultation form and discuss this with you. They should check the health of your natural lashes and will discuss looks that can be achieved and what type of curl she can use that are suitable for your individual natural lashes. There are many different types of extension weights and curls.

Here are just a few style examples and curl types;

Generally speaking a lash technician will not use lashes over a thickness of 0.15mm and no more than a third longer than your natural lashes.

Curl types include; J Curl, B Curl, C Curl, CC Curl, D Curl, DD Curl, L Curl, M Curl. Your lash artist will advise what would work best for your natural lashes and the look you would like.

The actual patch test itself takes only a few minutes and is to test the glue that will be used during your treatment. Your technician will apply a few light lashes to each of your eyes. If you feel any irritation at all you need to let your lash technician know.

It is not completely conclusive and some people still do react to the glue once a full set of lashes has been applied but I must stress this is very rare!

Whilst at your appointment take a look around and think about hygiene and health and safety.

Your lash technician should have a clean and tidy work area, it should be professional and tools should be cleaned and sterilised to ensure no potential spread of infection between clients.

What should I expect during the eyelash extensions treatment itself?

On the day of your appointment arrive without any eye makeup on.

Be prepared that your treatment can take up to 2 / 3 hours and you will be laying down. The timing depends if you are having Classic or Volume (handmade or premade) Lashes.

You will have your eyes closed the whole time and it is best not to talk, this moves your face muscles and eyes and can allow fumes in to your eyes.

You can have a lash nap, listen to music, listen to an audio book etc.

Your lower lashes will be taped down.

Your upper lashes will be cleansed and primed, brushed through and then your lash technician will start to apply your individual eyelash extensions.

The key is really good isolation of each individual natural lash, the extensions will then be applied using a specialist glue.

Some lash artists work eye to eye and some will complete all of one eye before moving on to the other.

Once complete, the tape or pads over your lower lashes will be removed. Some technicians use a Nano-Mist Sprayer as a finishing touch (this is a cool very fine spray of water) and then you will open your eyes!

Prepare to be amazed at the impact your eyelash extensions have on your eyes and face!

How do I look after my eyelash extensions?

Your lash artist will talk you through your aftercare routine. If you follow this advice you will get the best out of your extensions. You will need to book your infill appointment in 2-3 weeks to maintain your look.

Eyelash extensions applied by a professional lash artist who uses the right extensions for your natural lashes and applies them well will not damage your natural lashes.

Why do I need infills every 2-3 weeks?

Due to your natural lash growth lifecycle you will be loosing natural lashes every day and when your natural lashes grow the eyelash extension will grow out with it and the longer it gets the more your lashes are likely to get twisted and tangled. Having regular infills allows your lash technician to keep your lashes looking great by removing the outgrown lashes and applying new lash extensions to those new lashes that have grown.

It is very important to protect the health of your

natural eyelashes.

If the eyelash extensions are too thick, too long, too much glue is used, your lashes have not been isolated properly and lashes are clumped together this can damage and break your natural lashes. This is why you need to do your research.

Final note;

Thank you for taking the time to read this document about my personal views on Classic and Volume Eyelash Extensions. I have learnt a lot from my initial training, advanced training, my own experiences and from a lot of other talented lash technicians willing to help out other colleagues either in person or in support groups online. I would not have improved as much as I have without their help.

Laura Cooney – Tranquility Lash & Beauty

p.s. This is exactly how I feel