What you should know... about Lash Extensions.

If you've ever had lash extensions, you know the feeling to wake up feeling

G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S, quite effortlessly. Wake up. Brush. Clean. Repeat. Oh, the EASE! Not to mention they're a beautiful enhancement for your everyday look, however, not everyone is eligible. If you're eyelashes are brittle or too thin, a light set may be applied but the lashes may not remain intact for long even with the strongest glue. Because the lash extension is adhered to the natural lash itself, those with non-existent natural lashes are not eligible for lash extensions.

Eyelash extensions are a luxury service and require proper aftercare to maintain their fullness. If you're not able to perform the aftercare daily, your lashes can be damaged. You put your eyes at risk of infection when the lashes aren't cleaned properly (I'm not a doctor but believe me!). Some of you know exactly what I'm talking about... I'm talking about YOU, @Lash Mites. Look it up at your own risk.

​If you're enjoying your eyelash extensions, it's encouraged that you book a fill! What's a fill? A fill is an appointment where your aesthetician will remove lash extensions that are outgrown, twisting, or stuck together and new lash extensions are applied. Most of my clients will return every 2 weeks for a fill on their eyelashes and they book a 45 minute fill. If you need a bit more time that 45 minutes at 2 weeks, request more time. Clients with less than 50% at anytime during a fill appointment will need a full set and they may need to reschedule they're appointment. You can avoid this by performing aftercare properly.

Most clients should consider using a lash serum while having their lash extensions if they plan to have them on longer than three months. The lash serum encourages healthy lash growth and lessens the chance of natural lash neglect. If you choose not to use a lash serum, you should take an intermission from your extensions every three months for at least a month.

Prior to your initial appointment, make sure all eye makeup is removed before your appointment. All lashes must be free of false eyelash glue, concealer, oils, mascara, eyeshadow, and eyeliner. If you're returning for a fill, make sure you show up to your appointment with clean extensions; if I have to clean your lashes it takes away from fill time. Refrain from drinking caffeine or copious amounts of water before your appointment. Caffeine makes my clients twitchy (slowing down the process and making the extensions not stick). And of course, we know what happens when we drink lots of water and we're not able to... well you know. You're more than welcome to bring headphones for your own listening pleasure but please avoid talking on the phone as the spa is a quiet space. Please do not bring any guests to your appointment as I can only have one client in my treatment room at a time. Children are not welcome in my spa room or in the establishment whatsoever; even if they're well behaved. This also goes for animals unless they are service animals, of course. Lastly, you are not required to disclose your vaccine status but please remember to bring your mask... oh! And wear it too;)

Having a lash routine is important for long lash retention. Brush Lashes morning & night to keep the lashes separated and to allow the lash line to breath. Brushing the lashes also helps to remove natural oils from the base of the lashes. Wash your lash extensions once a day using Opal Radiance's lash bubbles or another designated lash bath to remove the build up of debris at the end of the day. Keep in mind, if you work out intensely, daily, you may need to wash your lashes twice a day. Keeping mascara, oils, concealer, and oil based moisturizers off the lash line and lashes allows for the best retention as oils can cause the extensions to detach from the natural lash. If you choose to use a lash serum, apply it to your lash line after you wash your lashes before you hit the hay. And to ALL of my cooks, bakers, and pyros, one of the most important things to remember is although the lashes are made from high quality silk, they WILL, I repeat, they WILL melt if you are near excessive heat. Believe me, they will be UGLY and you will need a removal and a new lash set.

It's important to follow aftercare properly to prioritize the health of your natural lashes and to allow your extensions to look the best they can! At Opal Radiance, your lash health is #1 and I will always let you know when your natural lashes are looking happy and healthy or if they might be needing a little break.

Thank you for reading my Lash Extension blog! Until next time, my friends!