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Lash Extensions 101

Lash Extensions 101

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For thousands of years, long, thick, and dark lashes have been a symbol of beauty, femininity, and, fertility in many cultures. In the Bronze Age, women around the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and the Mediterranean used kohl, which contained either antimony sulfide or lead sulfide, to contour and darken the edges of the eyelid.

But the eyelashes are more than just pretty accessories on one's face; they serve an important function.

Consisting of sensory fibers, human eyelashes serve a protective function from airborne debris by reflexively shutting the eyelid when it is hit by dust particles that can enter and harm the eye. With every blink, the eyelashes descend like curtains to close the eyes, and fluids from tear glands running along the edge of the eyelid irrigate the eyes, keeping them wet and moist.

WHAT ARE EYELASH EXTENSIONS?

Eyelash extensions are different than temporary eyelashes. While you can apply temporary lashes yourself, they only last a day and are glued to the lash line. Eyelash extensions require a professional to apply, last for several weeks and are glued to individual lashes.Eyelash extensions range in material, length, volume and curl.

WHAT ARE EYELASH EXTENSIONS MADE OUT OF?

Lash extensions can be made from animal hair or synthetic fibers. Most are made of PBT blend synthetic fibers, which are the same synthetic fibers toothbrush bristles are made from. They are heated and treated with formulations that give the appearance and feel of natural lashes. They are also lightweight and flexible.

WHAT IS THE BEST GLUE FOR EYELASH EXTENSIONS?

Eyelash extension glue is a very strong adhesive made with cyanoacrylate. The best glue for eyelash extensions depends on humidity and sensitivity, as well as strength needed.

CAN I GO SWIMMING?

Yes. But wait a day. After 24 hours, water and swimming will not affect your lashes. However, when water is in your eyes, blot them dry and avoid rubbing them.

HOW LONG DO LASH EXTENSIONS LAST?

Lashes will last around 3-5 weeks, until your natural lash sheds.You have approximately 150 follicles in your upper lash line and approximately 70 in your lower lash line. They grow and shed at different rates. It is healthy and normal to lose between 1 and 5 natural lashes per day. If you are losing more than 5 extensions per day or the extensions are shedding without being attached to the natural lash, let your lash artist at Cosmo and Company know.

WILL EXTENSIONS DAMAGE MY LASHES?

Extensions will not damage your eyelashes if they are applied correctly. A professional, certified lash artist will select the proper curl and diameter and use the correct amount of adhesive to prevent damage.

CAN I USE AN EYELASH CURLER ON MY EXTENSIONS?

No. And there will be no need to because they come in different curls to give you the look you want without an eyelash curler. Using a curler can cause lash damage.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO APPLY A FULL SET?

Depending on what style you choose — classic, volume or a combination - as well as the experience level of your artist, it can take up to 3 hours for a full set and up to 2 hours for fills.

HOW SHOULD I SLEEP?

We recommend sleeping on your back. If you’re a side sleeper, use a Lash Pillow or Beauty Sleep Mask.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CLASSIC AND VOLUME EYELASH EXTENSIONS?

Classic eyelash extensions are applied at a one-to-one ratio - one extension for each mature natural lash. Volume eyelash extensions are handmade fans of 2 or more lightweight extensions, creating a fuller, fluffier appearance.

CAN I TRIM MY LASHES OR EXTENSIONS?

No. Trimming your lash extensions runs the risk of trimming your natural lashes. Plus, extensions are tapered at the end so they already come to a point. If you feel that your lashes are too long, ask your artist to go shorter!

WHAT IS THE MAINTENANCE?

Lash extension maintenance depends on the strength of the adhesive used and how you care for your lashes at home. Cosmo recommends you get a fill every 2 to 3 weeks to keep them looking full and beautiful.

Call us to get your personalized lash recommendations! (561) 833-7411.