Want to roll out of bed each morning with those “I woke up like this” vibes? Or maybe you want to get those minutes back in your morning routine where you’d normally be applying a couple coats of mascara before rushing out the door? Or is it that you just don’t want to deal with mascara running and smudging under your lower lash line all day? There are SO many benefits to eyelash extensions, and that’s probably why they’re so hot right now!
One major drawback of getting lash extensions, though, is the risk you take that you’re going to look like you’ve just glued on a pair of dramatic strip lashes and you’re about to hit the night clubs. Whilst some people love this look, if you’re new to the lash game it might be a bit overwhelming for your first time. Here’s our top tips and tricks for getting lash extensions so natural that people will be asking “Did you get your lashes done?” instead of “Woah, those are some crazy lashes!”
Before your lash appointment
Research
This is the most important part, but what do you need to research? Everything. These lashes are going to be on your eyes for about 6-8 weeks so you need to make sure you know as much as possible before going in to get them applied.
Research the lash technician you want to use, make sure they’re qualified and experienced specifically with applying lash extensions (as opposed to a general beauty technician). Peruse their latest work on Instagram, Facebook, wherever you can find photos of their expertise and make sure it suits what you want your lashes to look like. Grab a few photos of your favourite natural lash looks on faces and eye shapes similar to yours so you can show them to your technician on the day.
Curl, length and colour
Keeping in mind that your eyelash extensions are going to be black, picture how you like your lashes to look when you have a couple coats of mascara on. Let your technician know if you usually curl your lashes before putting a coat on as they’ll be able to match the curl of your lash set to what you would normally go for. Opt for a ‘Classic’ set the first time you get your lashes done as this should be the least dramatic option in terms of thickness and length – all lash salons will be a little different, though, so just go for a set that seems closest to the natural look you want.
Lash separation and glue
A good lash technician will know to separate and attach each lash to your individual lashes instead of attaching them to 2-3 of your natural lashes – which can cause fall out and damage to your lash line (nothing says “unnatural” more than clumps of your eyelashes missing). When you call to make your booking, be sure to ask them about this and enquire about the ingredients of their lash glue. If it contains formaldehyde (irritates the eye) or they can’t tell you what’s in it, absolutely do not use that technician.
Eyelash extension material
To get the most natural look, you should opt for either faux-mink or silk eyelash extensions (make sure they’re 100% cruelty-free), both of which are lighter and more feathery-looking than the shiny, dramatic, synthetic lashes that come to mind when you think of eyelash extensions. Faux-mink or silk lashes are also a great option for those with weak or sparse natural eyelashes as the lightweight nature of the strands will cause less damage to your lash line and they’ll consequently last longer than synthetic lash extensions.
Faux-mink and silk lashes can be a bit more expensive than synthetic, so if you’re looking for a budget friendly option you can definitely still check out the synthetic lashes as there are some pretty convincing types out there that may still look fairly natural if done correctly.
How to keep your lashes looking natural
Don’t sleep on your front
This is a big one, if you don’t want your lashes going haywire in the night, you need to make sure you’re sleeping on your side or back to avoid them being squashed against your pillow. Everyone will definitely know they’re not natural if they’re sticking out at all kinds of strange angles.
A silk pillowcase will also help you avoid this as your lashes will glide smoothly over your pillow instead of catching on a cotton or synthetic material pillowcase. If you do run into some squashed lash shenanigans, a brush with a clean spoolie in the morning should help to set your lashes back in the right direction so they can correct themselves (hopefully before you get to work!).
Don’t get your lashes wet for 24 hours after
This is an important part of the aftercare process, if you get your lashes wet within the 24 hours after they’ve been applied the glue will loosen and your lashes will fall out – definitely not a natural look. You can definitely still shower, but don’t put your lashes in the water and don’t stay in the steam too long. Also, keep clear of oil-based beauty products because they can break down the glue as well.
Cleanse and brush daily
If you’re really committed to keeping your lashes looking feathery, soft and natural then invest in a good lash cleanser and use it morning and night with a clean spoolie to brush out your lash extensions. This will keep them fresh and extend their life.
It’s best to avoid mascara unless you want a clumpy mess on your hands that’s hard to clean, but if you must use some, only pop it onto the very tips of your lashes and avoid the base – this should give you enough added drama while avoiding ruining your lashes. Be sure to clean them carefully afterwards if you decide to do this!
Conclusion
Eyelash extensions are truly a fantastic option for everyone who wants fabulous lashes 24/7. If researched beforehand and applied by an experienced lash technician you’ll have gorgeous, natural lashes that won’t look like they’re about to take flight in the next stiff wind (if that’s not the look you’re after). Aftercare is just as important as finding a great lash technician so be sure to keep them clean and kink-free by following our tips above and any instructions that your technician gives you.
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