What Are Eyelash Extensions?

There are lots of ways to get longer-looking eyelashes. The simplest and least expensive is traditional mascara.

Others include false eyelashes, eyelash transplants, permanent makeup, pharmaceuticals that promote lash growth, and even eyelash perms. To be clear, eyelash extensions don't technically fall into any of these categories.

Eyelash extensions are individual fibers — not a strip of lashes — that are glued, one by one or in small groups, onto your natural eyelashes to enhance the appearance of length and fullness.

Most eyelash extensions are made of synthetic fibers, such as nylon, and are bonded using various types of professional glues. Silk is another material used for eyelash extensions. There are even mink eyelashes made of natural fur.

How Eyelash Extensions Are Applied

You don't need a degree to apply eyelash extensions, but by no means does this imply that the procedure is easy to perform. In fact, it requires quite a bit of skill, and due to the precision required to place individual lashes, it is often compared to microsurgery — except it's usually performed in a spa or salon by an aesthetician or technician rather than a trained eye care professional.

Most aestheticians or technicians apply eyelash extensions using two pairs of tweezers. The first pair is used to separate your natural lashes. The second pair holds the lash extension, which is dipped in glue and then placed on top of the isolated natural lash. After a few seconds, the two will bond together.

Typically, anywhere from 40 to 100 eyelash extensions are applied per eye.

How Long Do Eyelash Extensions Last?

Eyelash extensions are shed with your natural eyelashes. Typically, eyelashes fall out and regrow every six weeks or so. After about a month, roughly half of your eyelash extensions will be gone. a standard two week fill in appointment is required to upkeep you lash extensions.

Eyelash Extensions Cost

If you sign up for a full set of eyelash extensions, set aside about two to three hours and a few hundred dollars. Mink eyelash extensions can cost around $100 - $350.

Many salons offer "fill in" applications replacing eyelash extensions that have shed with your clients natural eyelashes. The cost for limited eyelash extension replacements is significantly less than the initial procedure.

BENEFITS OF BECOMING A LASH ARTIST

#5. YOU GET TO WORK WITH PEOPLE

But without that annoying lady in HR who keeps bugging you about paperwork or the guy who always brings in smelly sandwiches for lunch. When you’re an eyelash extension artist you are able to work with lots of different clients, team up with other lash technicians you like, or even get a place in a salon with a chic work environment. You don’t have to sit alone in a cubicle typing away, or on the phone with angry customers. You will get to chat and become friends with multiple clients a day, which is fulfilling and never boring.

#4. BE AN ARTIST

You will be able to work creatively every single day. You will assess a client’s needs and wants, then create a look that is perfect for them. You can also become certified in additional lash, brow, waxing and other beauty areas to make your craft more artistic and professional. Not to mention more MONEY!

#3. SAY GOODBYE TO YOUR COMMUTE

If you want to, that is. Many eyelash extension artists choose a salon or studio booth space to keep work and home separate. But most lash technicians choose to do extensions out of their home. If you have a small spare room or out-of-the-way open area, you can easily set up shop in your own house. This saves on extra overhead costs and is incredibly convenient for you.

#2. FLEXIBILITY

You are your own BOSS! You get to decide where and when you schedule your customers. If you just really hate Mondays – take them off! If you’re a mom you can schedule your lash appointments when your kids are at school or in the early mornings while they still sleep. You can work more when you need to, and less when you need to. Very few people can boast of the flexibility you will have as eyelash extension artist.

#1. MONEY MONEY MONEY

The lash extension industry is booming right now. You can make upwards of $50,000 PLUS a year, if you are a skilled and well-marketed lash technician, and then your clientele and revenue will continue to increase as you become more well-known and experienced in coming years. The investment in lash extension training is definitely worth the time and money, because you’ll end up with more time and more money down the road!

What Can Go Wrong

Certainly, anytime you're touching an area near the eye, there's cause for concern. But with eyelash extensions, problems don't usually result from sharp tweezers. Instead, most problems are caused by the glue that's used to bond the synthetic extensions in place, since these often contain formaldehyde or other chemicals that can cause irritation and allergic reactions.

Eyelash extensions can make short, sparse eyelashes look thicker and longer. But there are risks.

• Infection of the cornea
• Infection of the eyelid
• Swollen eyelids
• Temporary or permanent loss of eyelashes

In addition to infections and allergic reactions, some people actually lose eyelashes in the process of trying to make them look more plentiful. This is because frequent use of eyelash extensions can damage the hair follicles responsible for eyelash growth and maintenance.

Other, less common, complications with eyelash extensions include forceps wounds, reactions to solvents used to remove the extensions, and reactions to the tape that may be used to hold your lids closed during the procedure.

Also, some eye doctors and researchers believe eyelash extensions may increase your risk of dry eyes. It appears there is an optimal length for eyelashes to protect the eyes from wind, dust and other debris. Animal studies suggest this optimal eyelash length is one-third the width of the eye.

With this being said, its important to practice safety guidelines. Be sure do a consultation with your client before servicing them. Inquire about allergies, sensitivity, lash history. Learn your products so you can always educate your client if there is ever an issue.

We are here to help you become a the best eye lash technician in your area. It is our job to supply you with the knowledge and materials needed to become successful in the industry. We have created this virtual course to help you achieve your goal.