08 June 2011 (Beauty)

Words: Sarah Jane Lanagan

 

Lash extensions are big business these days with celebrities, brides & holiday goers alike thanks to the freedom they provide after application. The process involved in creating the finished effect is certainly an intricate one and can take up to 2 hours on the first application, and an hour for maintenance sessions. Tiny, single lashes are individually glued onto the root of your own eyelashes to seamlessly mesh together for a fuller, longer result that will last 3-4 weeks, and possibly longer if you follow after care advice to the letter.

One of the great positives about a set of lash extensions, is that they can genuinely change the appearance of your eye shape depending on what you'd like to achieve, whether that be giving the illusion that eyes are bigger, wider, or less deep set. As with any procedure involving your eyes, it is important to research the reputability of the salon and the products that are used there to ensure the safest outcome. Recently, I was invited out to specialist salon Up To My Eyes in Greystones to meet owner Elaine McParland and get the full lash extension experience from a true professional.

Elaine trained in the art of lash extensions in Sydney before coming back to Ireland and initially built her client base by working from her home salon before setting up the current business in 2008. Preceding any appointment, there is a client consultation which is an integral step in determining the personalized finish and look of your lashes. If you're unsure about what will suit your eye shape and style, Elaine and her staff will be able to recommend and guide you through the options, which range from the choice of either silk or acrylic, to the glue used, as well as length, colour, and curl of each lash.

During the application, a collegen eye mask is applied to treat and protect the surrounding area. You'll feel nothing as each lash is intricately grafted on to your own, with the experience being so relaxing that most people can't help but take the opportunity for a little nap! If you're not the napping type though, Up To My Eyes also provide some complimentary services including reflexology and Shellac Manicures on site which can be done while you're having your lashes applied.

As someone who isn't really into false nails or tan, it was important for me to remain as far away from the Jordan look as possible when it came to getting my lash extensions done and the post application requirements. What first struck me was the natural finish. Longer, yes. Fuller, yes... but not a hint of drag queen to be seen. I was given my after care advice sheet which details how best to look after lash extensions and contains tips on products that work symbiotically with both the glue and lashes. I went on my merry way, relaxed and ready to start batting my newly acquired bambi eyes at whichever poor, unsuspecting person decided to sit opposite me on the Dart home.

Fast forward a couple of weeks and I've still got 95% of my lashes and have become accustomed to waking up looking fresh faced with permanently defined eyes rather than my usual pale complexion & blonde lashes that, without make-up, create an overall unfortunate "boiled egg" effect. Having always wondered what it would be like to have lashes that rival Cheryl Cole's; if someone asked me I'd recommend lash extensions - especially if you're planning a summer holiday or honey moon in the sun where you want to spend your time having fun rather than dealing with smudgy, runny mascara whenever you go for a dip in the sea!

Information:

Website: www.uptomyeyes.ie
Contact: info@uptomyeyes.ie
Prices: Lash extension prices range from €100-€120 for a full application & €40-€50 for maintenance sessions.
Training: Up To My Eyes provides training sessions for those who would like to become an expert in application and look into starting their own business as well.

 

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For more you can check out Sarah's Blog - Pretty Easy

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