Eyelash extensions are an easy way to wake up looking effortlessly beautiful, says Lash Lounge Annapolis’ owner Fayth Ribeiro. But if your Google searches have only served up horror stories, Ribeiro wants to set the record straight on some common lash myths.
Myth No. 1: Having lash extensions will damage your natural lashes.
Fact: When applied correctly by a trained professional, not only will your lashes look beautiful, but having lash extensions will NOT damage your natural lashes. A trained lash stylist knows how to correctly apply lash extensions that are not too long or heavy for your natural lashes. “Our stylists are required to go through a six to eight-week training course but also have their state cosmetology license or esthetician license.” At your appointment, your stylist will evaluate the health and integrity of your natural lashes. “It’s normal for natural lashes to shed. We shed about 20% of our lashes every two weeks,” Ribeiro says.
Myth No. 2: Having eyelash extensions put on is painful and uncomfortable.
Fact: Some people will fall asleep during their service, whether it’s a complete set of lash extensions or a refill. “Our lash stylists are very gentle and the calming environment each salon provides makes the service so relaxing many will doze off and wake up with outstanding lashes,” says Ribeiro.
Myth No. 3: You can’t wash your face or get your lashes wet.
Fact: Ribeiro says this myth is one of the first ones she hears. “We WANT you to wet your lashes and clean them. You can wash your face and get your lashes wet. We recommend you keep your skin clean as well as your lashes. The only time you can NOT get your lashes wet is for the first 24 hours after a full set or a refill.” The adhesive needs this time to cure fully. After those 24 hours, you can get them wet. Just make sure they are thoroughly dried and brushed after. “You do have to be careful with what soap you use, so you don’t break down the adhesive,” she adds.
Myth No. 4: When you want your lashes off, you can pick them off just like strip lashes.
Fact: Please, please, please, do not believe this, says Ribeiro. Strip lashes and lash extensions are very different. Lash extensions are individually applied to your natural lashes, not the skin, and with various adhesives. The glue should never touch your skin, she says. “If you pick or pull off your extensions you will most likely pull out your natural lash which will damage the hair follicle and can prevent the lashes from growing. Please come in and we would be happy to remove them for you with the proper products made for removing lash extensions,” she says. “Like your natural lashes, the extensions will eventually shed or grow out. But you should come in to have them removed or refilled so healthy lashes stay healthy.”
“Getting eyelash extensions is an investment in yourself,” says Ribeiro. “Many of our clients use this time to relax, take a nap, listen to a podcast or just unplug for a bit. Plus it saves time getting ready in the morning and saves them money on makeup, too.”
Lash Lounge Annapolis offers lash extensions, lash lifts, lash tinting, eyebrow tinting and threading, plus a no-risk membership program to help guests save money on maintaining their lashes. Learn more at https://www.thelashlounge.com/md-annapolis-west-street/.