When I tell my guests that I do eyelash extensions I always hear the same two questions…..how is it done and how long do they last?  We then get into a lively discussion about how wonderful it would be to go without mascara, get up in the morning and go to the gym looking like you have on make-up, and how great it would be to finally add some “flutter” to their eyes.

Eyelash extensions are semi-permanent lashes attached in a single strand to your individual lashes one at a time.  They are weightless and curved to closely replicate a natural lash.  Each lash is attached using a surgical adhesive that was originally designed to be used to close incisions during surgical procedures. This adhesive is extremely lightweight and flexible, which gives you a terrific soft,  natural feel to your lashes.  If applied correctly, it is nearly impossible to detect where the natural and artificial lash begin and end.

Which brings me to my next point…..you get what you pay for when it come to eyelash extensions.  Because this is very painstaking, detailed work and a natural look is what we all strive for, it is important to select a lash ‘stylist’ with care.  Look for a stylist that has had extensive training and is certified in her craft.  In Indiana, a lash stylist must be either a licensed aesthetician or cosmetologist.  Ask to see pictures of their work.  Ask about their training.  If you have friends who have had extensions look closely at the work.   Do they have a soft natural look or are their lashes clumpy and “gluey”?  A full set of lashes (approximately 60-80 lashes per eye) takes about two hours to apply.  Prices range from $300-$400 depending on location.  If you find a place that does them for $30 in thirty minutes you may not be pleased with the results.

When it comes to the question ‘how long do they last?’ I always tell my guests that lash extensions will naturally fall out as your natural lashes shed.  You can keep your new lashes indefinitely by coming in for “fills” about every 3-4 weeks.  This process takes about 45 min. and a typical cost is $75-$100.  Most of my lash guests are on a 4 week schedule to maintain the fullness of their lash extensions.

All lash sessions are customized for each guest.  Lashes come in different lengths, thicknesses, curls, colors and even different materials.  A good lash stylist will do a comprehensive consultation taking into consideration your eye shape and the “look” you are trying to achieve.  There are infinite variations for the finished look – from ‘Kardashian-esque’ to very natural.  By carefully selecting curls and placement, a mature eye can be “opened up”, an almond-shaped eye can achieve a rounder look and an eye with thin, pale lashes can finally practice her “flutter”.

Wake up to longer, thicker and fuller lashes every day.  Contact Ology Spa for an appointment to have your own beautiful set of natural eyelash extensions applied.  You will LOVE them!

Joan Kutsch, LE  jkutsch@ologymd.com

Licensed Aesthetician – Ology Spa / Aesthetics / Medicine

Carmel, Indiana