Eyelash extensions, eyelash perms, eyelash dye, false lashes, magnetic false lashes, mascara – the list of eyelash products and treatments is seemingly never – ending.
It can be confusing if you don’t know the difference between all the options available so this week I’m breaking it all down.
Semi Permanent Lash Extensions
Otherwise known as individual eyelash extensions, semi permanent lash extensions involve
bonding false lashes onto a person’s existing natural lashes with a surgical-grade adhesive. The application time is usually around one and a half to two hours long. As the false lashes are glued to existing lashes, they fall out when your lashes fall out so the extensions can last anywhere between two weeks to two months. In my experience they fall out gradually, so the effect of them becomes less and less impactful as the weeks pass.
Benefits: You can request the lashes to be natural looking, or ask for a fuller, more dramatic look.
False lashes may be strips or individual and can be secured on using eyelash glue.
Photo: Hayley Kim Design/unsplash
Eyelash Perm
When I first heard about eyelash perms all I could think of was curly 1980s hair, but it turns out the eyelash perm is just one wave, (not lots of little kinks!) The process however is the same. Perming solution is put on the eyelashes which are then wrapped around a roller. The treatment takes around an hour. Eyelash perms also last for the length of the eyelash growth cycle.
Benefits: If your lashes are very straight, this treatment will help make them look much fuller.
Eyelash Tint
This is essentially a hair dye for your lashes. It doesn’t take long – about 15 minutes, and is a non – invasive treatment. Like the treatments above it will last as long as your lashes last.
Benefits: Relatively inexpensive treatment and there is no need for mascara when your lashes are dyed.
Fake Lashes
False lashes may be strips or individual and can be secured on using eyelash glue, an eyelash glue pen, or by using magnetic strips and magnetic eyeliner. False lashes are generally made to be used once, though some brands make re-usable ones. I find that if I’m not wearing eyeshadow I get a few wears out of a one-use pair but if I wear eyeshadow then I only get one use. The keys to applying false lashes are to allow the glue enough time to get tacky, and to bend the lash strip into the shape you want it before applying.
Benefits: Being able to do it yourself and the relatively low cost involved.
The key to applying false lashes are to allow the glue enough time to get tacky, and to bend the lash strip into the shape you want it before applying. Photo: Giorgio Trovato/unsplash
Mascara
The various types of mascara on offer can be overwhelming, (so that may be a future column!) Each mascara offers to solve a different issue, lengthening, thickening, waterproof, curling mascara etc. The type best for you is the one you like the best. It may take some testing and trying, and some trial and error. While I’m still mourning the loss of the L’Oreal Double Extend Lengthening mascara (sadly discontinued), my current favourite is Bellamianta’s Lady Lash Mascara. Bellamianta is a vegan and cruelty free makeup brand, currently adorning the faces of the Dancing with the Stars cast. The Lady Lash mascara lengthens lashes and gives great coverage without clumping or smudging.
Benefits: The ease of application and the effectiveness for a low cost.
Bellamianta’s Lady Lash Mascara
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