Eyelash Extensions: The Long and Short of it

By: Braeden Villeneuve

When Monday morning rolls around, the last thing I want to do is get out of bed 20 minutes earlier to do my makeup. But I don’t feel myself if I’m not put together, even if it’s just for class. My solution? Eyelash extensions.

I first learned about eyelash extensions when I started following Jessie James Decker’s every beauty move. She constantly cited these as her solution to small, “wimpy” eyelashes. I’ve always had dark, long lashes, but the thought of being able to wake up with my eyelashes already done was way too good to pass up. If you already have naturally great lashes, don’t be worried about extensions will ruining them. According to The Huffington Post, that’s the biggest myth about lash extensions, and I haven’t noticed any damage to mine!

I made my first lash extensions appointment at the end of August. It takes about an hour and a half to get an entire set. I know it sounds like a long time, but you just lay down with your eyes closed while someone else does all the work. They’re also customizable to whatever look you’re trying to achieve. I wanted something natural while still maintaining full volume across my entire eye. However, my mom opted for shorter lashes on the inner eye that gradually got longer and thicker. The length ranges from 6mm to 17mm. For my desired look, my technician applied 15mm synthetic lashes.

Once I had my first set on, I was totally hooked. Eyelash extensions fall out just like normal lashes, so they do require upkeep. I go back to the salon every three weeks to get fill-ins which take about 20 minutes in the chair. By the end of this period, I usually have to add a little mascara to the sparse places. I think the upkeep is totally worth it because mascara is my least favorite part of an everyday beauty routine. Every time I apply mascara it smudges all over my top lid, completely ruining the eyeshadow I’d spent 10 minutes perfecting.

I’ve absolutely loved having eyelash extensions for the past six weeks. Whether it’s a bare-faced Sunday afternoon or a glammed-up Friday night, I always have a touch more confidence knowing my eyelashes are done. They’re perfect for a beauty guru who loves to try new products or any girls who love the natural look because extensions require no extra time in the morning. Definitely a must-have!