13 Surprising Things That Might Happen If You Get Eyelash Extensions
Like stopping traffic...or getting an eye infection
“Should I get eyelash extensions?” asks the woman who is in the know about current beauty trends but also mildly skeptical about anything that is semi-permanent and involves putting glue near her eyeballs.
We asked ourselves the same question, and then we tried them. Here’s everything we learned and what you should know before hopping on the falsie train.
YOU MIGHT STOP WEARING MASCARA
Kiss that pesky wand goodbye for a while. Eyelash extensions are great for the lazy. (And the rushed!) Professional sets look nothing like theatrical falsies, so your peepers will just appear naturally more defined--and softer.
BUT BE PREPARED FOR ALL KINDS OF NEW TOOLS
Buh-bye, mascara. Hello, lash conditioner, adhesive strengthener, a specialty “brush” and a heated curler. These puppies can be high maintenance--if you get too excited.
YOU MIGHT HAVE TO SHELL OUT A PRETTY PENNY
From the get-go, expect to drop some cash. Depending on where you live and which salon you chose, a set can run you anywhere from $100 to $500.
YOU MIGHT NERD OUT ON THE TECHNICAL ASPECTS
Like what falsies are made of (polyester, silk or mink). And the crazy detailed method in which they’re applied (individually to the lashes themselves, not in one long strip). And how you weirdly don’t feel a thing…
YOU MIGHT GET AN EYE INFECTION
Or have an allergic reaction. They’re rare but they happen. Be diligent about choosing a reputable salon, known for maintaining proper health standards. And ask your stylist to go slowly and test your skin for any potential reactions.
YOU MIGHT HAVE TO SHOWER WITH GOGGLES
Direct running water is a no-no. So if you want to make your investment last, put your pride aside and don a second set of eyes.
AND YOU MIGHT WASH YOUR FACE DIFFERENTLY
Ditch anything oil-based (as it will cause the lashes to shed) and opt for a mild cleanser. Then if you must wear eye makeup, remove it by dabbing a Q-tip into makeup remover and carefully swiping off liner and shadow around your lash roots.
YOU MIGHT BE SCARED TO DO...LITERALLY ANYTHING ELSE
Like swimming. Or crying. Or sleeping. But each of those things is completely fine to resume as usual. Our only advice for water and tears: Blot; don’t rub.
YOU MIGHT CAUSE A TRAFFIC ACCIDENT
All that said. They’re gorgeous. We’re only slightly kidding when we say: Your new peepers are almost guaranteed to distract other drivers. Or you--for all that rearview mirror gazing on the way. (You will be shocked to discover the inevitable new levels of narcissism.)
YOU MIGHT FEEL SAD (AND “BALD”) WHEN THEY START TO FALL OUT
Even with maintenance and utmost care, the falsies will start to shed in about two to three weeks after application. (FYI: Your real lashes have their own shedding cycle, too.) This is normal. And mildly depressing. And real life.
BUT FEAR NOT: YOU CAN ALWAYS GET REFILLS
Your lash technician will gladly fill in the bald spots during a touchup appointment. And it’ll be a little bit cheaper than a full set, too. Are you a lash junkie yet?