Cass
Trahan
FAQs
What Are Eyelash Extensions?
Semi-permanent eyelash extensions are a popular product that lengthens and thickens your own natural eyelashes by applying false ones to your real ones. Lash Extensions are single strands of synthetic eyelashes that are curved to replicate a natural eyelash. They are applied to each individual natural eyelash one by one for a natural and beautiful look. Eyelash Extensions are perfect for special occasions or for day to day wear. My clients have been wearing eyelash extensions safely for months due to their own responsibility in aftercare as well as my own professional training and expertise.
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What are Eyelash Extensions made of?
I do not support animal cruelty in the name of vanity, so the lashes that I use are synthetic. I do not use any animal products or byproducts. The synthetic lashes are made of a thin plastic. I currently use the brand The Lash Collection and Lash Makers.
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Classic vs Volume vs Mega Volume?
Classic is one-dimensional [1D] extensions by adding one "thicker" extension to one eyelash to create a fuller look. This technique has lower retention and shorter wear due to the "weight" of the extensions, and only having really one contact point. I no longer do these types of extensions.
Volume is multi-dimensional [ranges 3-5 extensions] by adding multiple "fine" extensions that are delicately hand-crafted fans to each individual natural eyelash to create a fuller look. This technique has higher retention and longer wear by the "weightlessness" of the extensions and more contact points or wrapping. Very rarely do the length of these extensions go past 13mm to protect the natural lash.
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Mega Volume/Russian Volume is another multi-dimensional [8-12+ extensions] by adding multiple "finer" extensions that are delicately hand-crafted fans to each individual natural eyelash to create the fullest look. This technique has a higher retention and longer wear by the "weightlessness" of the extensions and more contact points or wrapping. These extensions do not go past 12mm.
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How long will my extensions last? How often should I get a fill?
The extensions will last until your natural lash sheds and falls out. We naturally shed 1-3 lashes per day. When we don't have extensions, we don't notice it like we do with them on. When a natural lash falls out, there is another natural lash ready to come out the same pore. Every 45-60 days, clients tend to experience a "shed" where more fall out than normal. This happens and is natural! There are also seasonal sheds that happen as well. Everyone has a different growth cycle, and with maintenance you'll get an idea of what your cycle is.
On average, clients come ever 2-3 weeks to have a fill done. It varies client to client depending on how full you prefer to keep your lashes, and how well you take care of them. Longevity can depend on the clients lifestyle. Long exposure to steam or constantly touching your extensions can cause the glue used to break down, causing the extensions to fall off before you're fill. Stress, make up, and bad health will cause greater fall out.
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Lashes are waterproof but not heat proof!
Sauna's and long hot showers can cause them to fall off. Also, be careful of ovens and grills. This one always surprises my clients, especially around holidays. Extensions are made of plastic, so if fire gets involved, they will melt and singe. I've seen this happen once, but most of the time the ends get singed and fish hook. When using the oven, just do a little yoga! Open the oven with her head turned away, and once the initial gust of hot air escapes, you are free to grab whatever it is you are cooking.
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What to avoid when wearing extensions:
Mascara
Oil based eye products
Sleeping on stomach/side
Steam
Rubbing/Tugging
What unavoidable elements can shorten longevity:
Oily Skin
Climate: High Heat & High Humidity
Excessive Sweating
Medications
High Hair Growth rate
Can I wear Eyeliner/Mascara with Extensions?
Please DO NOT wear mascara on your extensions. Mascara contains oils and other ingredients that can cause extensions to slide off as well as clump up at the base. If you come to your appointment with mascara on, I have to go through the cleaning process before performing your service and this cuts in to your fill time. Even if you have removed mascara before your appointment, there is still the likelihood that your natural lashes have a coating on them, and will cause a barrier for the glue to adhere, thus creating a weak bond.
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As far as liner goes, I tell clients to just be careful. Read the ingredient lists. Find a good oil-free liner. If you want to use a liquid liner, avoid any that you have to paint on. It makes it difficult for you to remove at the end of the day, and cause the lashes to fall off. A "marker" type liner, is the way to go; Kat Von D or NYX liner can work. If you are doing just your waterline, you should be all right, but you have to make sure you are cleaning your eyes thoroughly. Avoid the label "waterproof". Never use a lash curler! Never glue strip lashes over your extensions. This creates a huge mess and you will need a new set.
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How do I clean lashes?
Avoid water on your lashes for at least 24 hours, but not forever! They still need to be cleaned to avoid bacteria and infection. Wash your hands before handling your lashes so they no longer have oil or dirt on them. There are plenty of lash cleansers online that you can invest in, or you can make your own concoction of cleanser! Use 1/3 baby shampoo, just traditional Johnson&Johnson works, with 2/3 water. Use a foam soap dispenser so that it comes out already mixed and foamed up for you, so you are not unnecessary rubbing on your extensions. Gently cleanse your lashes and rinse. Once rinsed, use a lint free towel or paper towel to soak up the remaining, weighing water. Washing your lashes will extend the longevity of your lashes as well!
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How do I know if I can wear eyelash extensions?
If you have an allergy to adhesives, there is a high chance that you cannot have extensions. If you have a latex allergy or collagen allergy, let your artist know. The eye pad used protect your bottom lash, may cause discomfort and need to be swapped out for medical paper or foam tape. A patch test can be performed if you are concerned.
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Do extensions hurt? Can they damage my natural lashes?
No and Yes. Let's go over this. Extensions SHOULD NEVER HURT!!! I cannot stress this enough and in my 4 years of working, I still hear horror stories from people about their painful experiences. You shouldn't feel your extensions. Yes, you will feel almost a weight difference, but I'm talking about a painful feeling. Poking, burning, or pulling, should not occur. If these happen consistently, find another artist.
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Extensions can cause damage IF APPLIED INCORRECTLY. This is something else that I see a lot of when new clients come in from other artists. Extensions are meant to be applied to single natural lashes. NEVER to more than one lash. When multiple natural lashes are glued together, this will cause clumpy glue, lashes pulling other lashes out as they grow out, or even breakage. If this continues, this can cause permanent damage. Lashes will continue to thin out and go weak if they are treated badly like this. If your artist is correctly trained and loves their job, you should not have this issue ever. Also, be careful of what glue is being used. The glue that I use is formaldehyde free and tested thoroughly. Glue is replaced every 4 weeks to remain fresh and cut down the risk of bacteria build up. Tweezers soak in barbicide between clients and all lip wands or mascara wands are disposed after each client.
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When they are all applied correctly, you can keep wearing your lashes for years! Make sure that you do your research on your artist. Make sure they are trained. Keep a good relationship with them and open communication. If you have concerns, do not be afraid to voice them! Your artist wants the best for you, and will be honest with you and the health of your lashes. If you have any other questions, do not hesitate to contact me!