All about lash extensions:

Q: What are lash extensions? What kind of lashes do you use? We use two of the top of the line lashes made of a synthetic mink and come in a variety of curls, lengths, and diameters. Depending on which style you choose, we place a classic lash extension on your natural lash or the 1:1 method. And with volume lashes, we use volume fans and are able to increase the fullness of your lashes while maintaining fluffiness and lightness. 

Q: How long will they last? And how long are the appointments? They last about 3 weeks (depending on your activity level and lifestyle). A full set takes anywhere from 2-2.5 hours and a fill takes 1-1.5 hours.

Q: Will lash extensions damage my natural lashes?Definitely not. When applied properly by a highly trained, licensed cosmetologist/ esthetician and certified lash artist, your natural lashes are completely safe. Several clients have been with us for 3+ years and their natural lashes are strong and long. In this field, many "lash artists" are not licensed or certified artists and do not properly isolate your natural lash (which results in lashes glued together) or place very heavy lashes (we use the lightest weight lashes on the market).

Q: Can I still exercise? Swim? Get facials? Yes, but steam, excessive water, and oils do weaken the bond of the adhesive so if you are doing hot yoga everyday or swimming/wearing tons of sunscreen, etc. you may need to come in closer to 2 weeks instead of the usual 3 weeks. Not everyone is affected by steam/oil, it varies from person to person. If you do sweat heavily every day, please rinse your lashes with water after.

Q: Do I still have to wear mascara? No! That's the best part of lash extensions. You truly don't need mascara and will wake up every morning and feel awake and gorgeous and can head straight out the door (well, don't forget your coffee).

Q: Can I wear eye makeup? Yes. You can, just not mascara! Just make sure you remove it with an oil-free makeup remover.

Q: I don't have any natural lashes, am I still a good candidate? If you have very few natural lashes or even gaps in your lashes, you are a great candidate for lashes. Using volume lashes is probably your best bet because you can fill in the gaps and create a full lashline even if your natural lashes are sparse. It's an amazing transformation!

Q: I have very thin natural lashes, am I still a good candidate? If you have very fine/ thin lashes, sometimes lash extensions may be too heavy to place on your lash. We always recommend a lash consultation if you are on the fence! Most times, your lashes can generally hold at least a classic lash! If you’re not a candidate for lash extensions, a lash lift and tint is always a safer option with great results!

Before your first lash appointment:

Q:How long are eyelash extension appointments? Your very first lash appointment will be a full set of lashes and will take around 2-3 hours to complete. If you’re going to get your lashes filled it will take between 1-1.5hrs, depending on look, lash artist speed and appointment booked (30, 60 or 90min).

Q: What should I wear to my lash appointment? Be comfortable! you’re laying down flat for between 2-3 hours so dress comfy, we do have blankets too if you get cold!

Q: Can I wear makeup to my lash appointment? It’s required that your eye area be clean and completely free of makeup. Please attempt to not wear (near the eye area) moisturizer, foundation, under eye concealer, mascara, etc. Your lash artist will require you to remove any makeup around your eye area before the start of your appointment. Come prepared with a clean face so your artist has the most time possible to spend on your lashes. If you’re coming from work, try not to use an oil-based makeup remover as it leaves a residue. Washing your makeup off with soap and water are best. It is ideal to not wear waterproof mascara for 2-3 days prior to your appointment, waterproof mascara can leave behind residue that causes lashes not to adhere properly.

Q: I can’t leave my house without mascara, I really can’t wear any? You are correct! We know that you’re busy and so if you’re coming from work or running errands, please arrive to your appointment early to clean your lashes onsite so when your lash artist is ready to start your lashes, you’re ready to go! Again, preferably face soap and water and not an oily remover.

Q:If I am coming for a fill, should I wash my lashes?YES! washing your lashes once per day with a lash-safe cleanser (we carry lash cleanser, which is highly recommended to maintain your investment) . cleaning your lashes will not only extend the life of your lashes but will keep them clean and looking fresh each day! it will also help prevent any irritations and bacteria that build up on your lash line.

Q: Can I wear my contacts? We suggest removing your contacts when you arrive at your appointment just to ensure as little irritation during your appointment as possible.

Q: Should i curl my natural lashes before my lash appointment? Nope! We prefer to work with your natural lashes… straight lashes are better for the adhesive to bond and hold the lash extension.

Q: Should i bring my headphones? Absolutely! if you’re planning to listen to music or a podcast during your appointment bring your headphones! We suggest having a playlist/podcast lined up as you won’t be able to open your eyes during the appointment.

Q: What about my cellphone? You will likely use your phone for your music or podcast, which is great. But we ask that you silence your phone and text notifications as it’s a distraction. Most clients view their lash appointment as a time to disconnect and relax. We are happy to check any missed calls/ texts but we are unable to answer any calls/ texts for you, this does take away the time we use to lash.

Q: What happens if I fall asleep? Is that okay?Absolutely! don’t worry about falling asleep, your lash artist wants you to be as comfortable as possible during your appointment! it does not bother us at all. Lash naps are amazing.

How much should i tip my lash artist? The standard tip range is between 15-20%. tips are never expected but always appreciated!

Q: I see a lot of bad lashes, how do I know my lashes will be safe and what I want? Before your first lash appointment, find your lash artist on instagram and check out their work, bring in a few photos of lash sets you like and review the style of your lash artist to make sure that’s what you’re looking for. make sure you choose a lash artist that’s a licensed cosmetologist or esthetician (ask to see their license or you can look it up on the DPOR website) and has been certified to perform the eyelash extension service for you- all providers at Locks & Lashes are both licensed and certified to perform lash services!

Q: Why are some lash extensions places cheaper so much cheaper than others? We know there is a big price range for lash extensions. like most other professions and beauty services, when a price is higher you are usually paying for higher quality, products, more experience, and level of education. for example, you may choose to pay a lower price for a full set of lash extensions but they “fall off” in 10 days or they are heavy or you can’t brush through them. your lash artist may be newer to the profession and not have a lot of experience. and even though they may look “good” there is an extremely high chance they are damaging your lashes in ways you can’t see (many lashes glued together, heavy extensions on baby natural lashes so they pull your natural lash out early). lash extensions at a higher price point usually mean your artist is licensed AND certified in extensions, and has experience doing lashes. they use the highest quality products and extensions (when done correctly your lashes should still be beautiful when you come in for a fill just less full); they shouldn’t be twisting, full of gaps, super long etc. an experienced artist educates you on lash care, they seem extremely knowledgeable and passionate about their career. also a designated lash studio comes with all the requirements of a small business including safety standards, business license, etc.. we pride ourselves at Locks & Lashes in client health and lash safety!