Are Lash Extensions Worth It?

Lash extensions are one beauty trick that seems to be only growing in popularity. Almost as if by magic, they have the power to transform your entire face in what seems like the blink of an eye (pun intended). Unlike false lashes, which oftentimes are easy to spot and blend into your natural appearance. This is because, as the name suggests, they are simply extensions of your existing eyelashes, not additives to place on top of them.

There are two ways you can achieve the bigger, bolder, more sultry appearance. You can get them professionally done in a salon or you can opt for DIY lash extensions. So, before we go into the breakdown are worth it, let’s dive into the two application options.

Salon-applied lash extensions

If you choose to get professionally at a salon you will undoubtedly save yourself the headache of trying to do them yourself, especially if you’re new to them. But salon applications can be pricey ($100 to $300). However, while the price might throw you off it’s important to remember that salon-grade. Follow a certain certification process and standard. Check with the salon to see their certifications and that they are up to your state’s standards. Be weary if you go to a salon and the price seems too good to be true (as in, they’re cheap). If the price is too good to be true, it’s because it likely is. And subpar can result in an eye infection. 

DIY extensions

While it might seem daunting at first to go with, if you’re familiar with the process this is a perfectly suitable route to go. DIY are less expensive than a salon, especially over time as you reapply and refill them. Plus, they’re done from the comfort of your own home, in your own time. All you need to do is find the right tutorials and go from there. And, n the same way with salon-applied as you shop, do look up to ensure the seller is certified and the reviews. Once you choose a brand that works for you it may quickly become your new beauty obsession.

Now that we’ve gone over the options of how to apply, let’s talk about it: Are they worth it? Here are a few things to consider.

They are time-consuming

Because an extension is placed on every individual eyelash as it can take time to put on. Anywhere from 90 minutes to two hours. And because these are your lashes, you’ll need to keep your eyes closed the entire time while still remaining awake. If you go for DIY lashes this might be easier in a sense, to stay awake, while at a salon it’ll require a bit more focus.

You’ll have them on for up to two whole months

Part of the benefit of a careful, and time-consuming, the application is that they last up to two months. So all of that time you spent not fidgeting will pay off since lash extensions are intended to last. Suddenly, you’ll discover yourself waking up each day looking at your most beautiful self without any additional effort.

Let them shed naturally

In the same way, your natural eyelashes come up from rubbing, water, or naturally shed so will your lash extensions. Since they are attached to each individual lash as your natural ones fall off so will they. That means you’ll have to get them refilled from time to time—a process that takes about one hour.

Careful cleaning

Lash extensions will have you wake up every day feeling beautiful. But, it comes with some careful maintenance that, if you’re not one for routine, might be difficult to follow. Although applied with medical-grade adhesive, the more exposed they are to water the more they will deteriorate over time. So, as you wash your face it’s important to be cautious. It might be tempting to skip over your eye-washing routine entirely but that can actually lead to infected eyes as bacteria build-up—which results in irritation and itching.

There are certain things you’ll have to give up

Wow, your lashes look good by just being on. This is great news, less maintenance. But, at the same time, you do need to give up certain other beauty looks—that mascara and eyeliner. If you love the lined look and darker appearance might not be for you. However, part of the reason you wanted them in the first place was to have that glamorous look without makeup. Adding mascara and eyeliner actually may cause them to come off early, especially as you use makeup remover to take them off. In addition, you also need to be cautious of oil-based makeup products as a whole, which break down the adhesive. 

There are numerous material options to choose from

If you have allergies or sensitive eyes (or are against animal products) then the good news is that lash extensions come in various material options. You can easily choose the material and weight that’s right for you. There are animal options of mink, sable, and fox. Or, you can go with silk, faux mink, or synthetic. Each option ranges from least expensive (synthetic) to most expensive (mink) and lightweight (sable) to the heaviest (synthetic). Choose the one best for your budget and desired look.

Conclusion

So, are lash extensions worth it? We’d like to think so because they can truly transform a look as if by magic. However they aren’t for everyone. It’s up to you to decide if they’re worth it.