HERE'S EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GET EYELASH EXTENSIONS

16 MINUTE DRIVE FROM ADELAIDE CBD

First and foremostly eyelash extensions or semi-permanent eyelashes are not the same as temporary eyelashes. Eyelash extensions are applied by a technician who will hand glue each extension to the top of your natural lashes and then they will stay put until your eyelashes naturally fall out. Temporary lashes are far cheaper and have the potential to look almost as good, if you’re more coordinated than I am, that is. I also think that temporary lashes also have the potential to look tacky and heavy whereas extensions look far more natural and seamless. Eyelash extensions will be with you when you go to sleep and when you wake up, you’ll be looking glam 24/7 even in the absence of makeup, as opposed to looking glam for merely a night out and it saves me many a tantrum. However, this long term glam does come with a price tag.

I took the plunge and had eyelash extensions applied about 2 years ago. Since then, I have rarely gone without. It scares me to reflect on this and think about how much I have actually spent over the span of 2 years, probably enough to buy a small car. This brings me to my first point - eyelash extensions are an expensive exercise, they are not, I repeat, are not, a one-off purchase. They are extremely high maintenance, extremely costly and extremely addictive. Typically, eyelash extensions require an initial amount for a full set of eyelashes which can have many different price points. After the initial application and as your natural eyelashes begin to shed, you will need to have them refilled – similar to that of acrylic nails, they grow out eventually. Refills are recommended every 3-4 weeks and are usually significantly less than the initial amount for a full set as you are only having your eyelashes partially done, as some of the original eyelashes will remain.

Another price related matter to consider is the different type of eyelash extensions you can get, extensions are by no means a one size fits all exercise and finding the right style for you will take time and suggestions from a professional. Currently there are three different sets of eyelash extensions on the market. These are Classic, Hybrids and Russian Volumes. The Classic eyelash extensions consist of one extension being applied to one of your natural eyelashes, this is the most natural look. The most dramatic look you can go for is the Russian Volume eyelash extensions which consist of up to eight, finer and lighter eyelashes attached to one natural eyelash. These eyelash extensions form a fluffy, thick and fanned out effect. If the Russian Volume look seems to OTT, you can opt for Hybrids which are a combination of both the Classic method and the Russian fan. My personal preference are Hybrid eyelash extensions however, I have not yet tried Russian Volumes. The type of eyelashes you get will not necessarily just depend on your preference based on appearance, you also have to consider the strength and length of your natural eyelashes but also the shape of your eyes. In addition to this, there are also different lengths and curls to choose from. The length of an eyelash extension is anywhere from 8-14mm and curls consist of a J,B,C and D curl – a D curl being the most dramatic curl. The D curl is my preference and the length of my extensions are between 10 – 14mm, I usually have a mixture to create a cat eye look.

Another thing to consider before converting is time. In order to have eyelash extensions applied you’ll need to clear your schedule for at least 2-3 hours initially and then at least 1-2 hours for your refill appointments. You will also have to be weary of water as once applied you cannot get your eyelash extensions wet for between 12-24 hours. That means no sweating, crying, swimming or washing your face, this is to ensure the glue dries.

I go to Beauties & Beasts which is a health and beauty store which provides services such as eyelash extensions, eyebrow feathering and spray tans but also sells supplements for health, hence the name, ‘Beauties & Beasts’. My technician Tayla, charges $110 for the initial application of Classic eyelash extensions, $140 for the initial application of Hybrid eyelash extensions and $170 for the initial application of Russian Volume eyelash extensions. In terms of refills, Classics are $65, Hybrids are $75 and Russian Volumes are $90.

Of course prices vary depending on the aforementioned factors but also based on the salon or technician you go to but be incredibly weary as the industry is in no way regulated. There are people all over Australia who are operating from their homes, are untrained and unhygienic in their application. These are the people who are cutting costs (often training and hygiene resources) to become competitive in the market.

The eyelash extension trend has really risen to fame over the last few years, despite eyelash extensions being around since 1916. It really is a classic case of, what was once a luxury, is now a necessity, oh what a world we live in. Happy lashing!