Everything You Need to Know About Eyelash Extensions

Color me SUPER EXCITED for today's post. I've touched on the topic of eyelash extensions in the past, but am so thrilled to come at you with a fresh new perspective (and more knowledge!) thanks to some serious experts.

After a trip to Patrick Evan Salon I was introduced to none other than Patrick himself - and his crazy talented wife, Melissa. 

I'm a big believer in "everything happens for a reason." I also believe that the world is so much smaller than we realize. Turns out Melissa knows some friends of mine from my home town! We met up over a glass of champagne and some apps to talk all things life and lashes.

Melissa owns Artisan Eyelashes - a top notch lash salon located in the heart of downtown San Francisco. So she's like actually an expert when it comes to eyelashes. 

I've gotten tons of questions about lash extensions, but I say let's let the expert here shine. Got Q's? Melissa and I have A's. Check out my chat with Melissa below!

artisan-eyelashes-san-francisco
artisan-eyelashes-san-francisco
artisan-eyelashes-san-francisco
artisan-eyelashes-san-francisco
artisan-eyelashes-san-francisco

Why get eyelash extensions?

Our clients choose eyelash extensions for the ease of the morning routine, to look “refreshed,” and to look less tired than most of us working moms feel!  Clients choose Eyelashes to open and frame the eyes, add the gentle pop of dark lashes, or to glam up their look!  Some clients choose Eyelashes to avoid mascara (due to sensitivities or hooded lid/sunken eyes that cause mascara to run constantly) and lash curlers (which can damage our lashes) all together. 

Can you "customize" the look of lash extensions?

Eyelash extensions are absolutely customizable. We have varying lengths (6mm-15mm), thicknesses, and curvatures that can be used to create each client's ideal look.  Shapes can be created to accent the center of the eye, opening the eye upward naturally and looking more awake, or extending the corner of the eyes for a more sultry, cat eye or dramatic look.  

 

What are eyelash extensions made of?

The eyelashes that we use are a faux mink extensions made from a micro- processed silk.  

How much do lash extensions cost?

Full lash extension sets range from $300-$375 , half sets range between $150- $190, and retouches are $110-$135 depending on lash type chosen. Retouches are performed every three weeks.

artisan-eyelashes-san-francisco

How long does each appointment take?

Full sets are 2 hours, while half sets and retouches take one hour to 75 minutes.  

How long do lash extensions typically last?

Eyelash extensions can be worn indefinitely if retouched regularly every three weeks.  The adhesive bond will weaken after roughly 2-3 weeks releasing the extension from the natural lash.  When clients come back in for retouches they will have roughly 1/4 to 1/3 of the eyelash extensions and those missing will be re-applied and they will leave with the full beautiful set once again.

BIG question - will lash extensions harm my natural lashes?

Not if applied correctly by a certified technician! Our stylists at Artisan Eyelashes are all Xtreme Lashes certified and have undergone extensive training.

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But real talk...

CHECK OUT THAT BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTO.

Lash extensions make allll the difference - especially when it comes to my wimpy blonde lashes.

What I loved most about learning from Melissa was how honest and real she is. I was cautious to toss extensions back on my already light lashes, but Melissa broke it all down for me. We only used the lightest weight lashes to keep my natural lashes from being weighed down. We're also investigating a good serum situation to help my natural lashes grow. 

 

artisan-eyelashes-san-francisco
artisan-eyelashes-san-francisco

I'm super excited to see how my lashes progress over the coming months - and can't wait for my "me" time at every trip to Artisan Eyelashes! If you're in the SF Bay Area, I highly recommend. 

Got eyelash extension questions? Drop them in the comments below!