Eyelash extensions

Like hair extensions, eyelash extensions are a cosmetic process whereby synthetic single fiber polyester thread like materials are applied to create a fuller, longer look.Fact|date=July 2007 Once a product accessible only to a limited consumer, eyelash extensions have become more popular and affordable. In Asia, The United States and Australia the process has become so popular that salons are booked as much as six weeks in advance. Aiming for an authentic, natural feel, they come in various lengths, colors and thicknesses, and can be worn during sleep, showering and swimming.Fact|date=July 2007 However, excessive exposure to oil can weaken adhesive bond. Eyelash extensions differ greatly from "fake" or "false" eyelashes in that they are applied one extension to one lash, and can last for two to six weeks. They look natural and not like strip lashes.Fact|date=January 2008

Before having eyelash extensions applied, make sure your eyelash extension professional is properly trained and certified. It is highly recommended that the consumer do their research and find a reputable and talented extensionist. Look for a stylist or company that requires certification based on ability and skill, rather than simply taking a class. You can find a qualified stylist who has undergone extensive training by looking under many eyelash extension companies' websites. Most salons offering lash extensions will emphasize the potential danger (such as eye injury or blindness) of applying false lashes at home. However, if done slowly and carefully, the process can be done at home for a fraction of the cost of salon application since most major drug stores and cosmetics stores sell sets of individual lashes.

Procedure

The procedure to attach the extensions is painless, and can take an average of two hours for a full set of extensions of roughly 30-80 lashes per eye. A lash extensionist carefully applies the "lash" with tweezers and a bonding agent. If properly applied with cyanoacrylate adhesive, eyelash extensions are designed to bond to one's natural eyelash.Fact|date=January 2008 Since eyelash extensions shed just like natural lashes, wearers are advised to have them re-applied every 2-4 weeks. The average cycle of a single natural eyelash is 365 days.Fact|date=January 2008

Eyelash Extension Misconceptions

Article and text in this section are Copyright 2008 Xtreme Lashes, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

The following are some of the situations in which damages can be done to natural lashes:

1) UNQUALIFIED PROFESSIONALS who are applying eyelash extensions. It is irresponsible to sell eyelash extension products without requiring training. During the a procedure, you will have a strong bonding agent and sharp tweezers near your eye area. For these reasons, it is encouraged that you find a stylist who has been properly trained through hands-on training courses rather than many companies that give certification after learning from a DVD.

2) FLARES and 'INDIVIDUAL' LASHES. This is what is referred to as short-cuts in eyelash extensions. Flares, Clusters and 'Individuals' consist of attached groups of 3-8 blunt-end lashes with a knot at the end. These types of extensions are made to be applied to the skin rather than directly to the single eyelash. This can cause inflammation of the skin or, if the 'short-cuts' are attached to a single lash, the individual lash cannot support the weight of the attachment and will break, possibly inhibiting future re-growth. Also, if they are applied to multiple natural lashes in order to support the weight the natural lashes will be adhered together. Since natural lashes grow at different rates this can result in faster growing lashes to prematurely pull out slower growing lashes from the root because they are bonded together. This can result in permanent damage and lash baldness if done repeatedly. the amylash academy recomends, to use peacock feathers instead.

Laws and regulations

The United States Food and Drug Administration has yet to rule on eyelash extensions, leaving regulation to each state [ [http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/coseye2.html US FDA/CFSAN - Eye Cosmetic Safety ] ] . States such as California, Oregon, Texas and Washington have yet to rule on the procedure. Colorado and New York forbids eyelash tinting but does not address eyelash extensions.

Update: Actually California and Washington have passed new codes that require eyelash extension professionals be licensed in the beauty field.

= References =

Xtreme Lashes (2008). Eyelash Extension Misconceptions. [http://www.xtremelashes.com/FAQ/ExtensionMisconceptions.pdf Full Article] .