If putting on a pair of false lashes makes you feel like a queen, I’d highly recommend giving eyelash extensions a try. I was intrigued when I first heard about this a few years ago. But based on after care instructions, it seemed very restrictive on what type of makeup you can wear and I was always testing out products for this blog. However, I recently went for my first ever eyelash extension at Prep Beauty Parlour and I am hooked!
I’ll be showing you my before and after and sharing a few tips I wish I knew heading into my appointment.
About Prep Beauty Parlour
Prep Beauty Parlour is an eye candy of a salon. The whole space is bright, feminine and super Instagrammable. There is a separate section of the salon for eyelash extensions. I went pretty late in the night so there was only one other client beside me. There are 5 beds in total though so it can be a full house.
The lash room is nicely decorated with music playing at the perfect volume. There is a sink in the corner to wipe off any remaining makeup before you start your appointment. For the lash beds, I did notice that the head towel was not the cleanest as they probably do not switch sheets after every appointment. But overall, the whole space is bright, sanitized, and organized.
The entrance of the salon has the famous bird cage where you can’t resist but snap a selfie. If you are looking to get nail services, there is another section of the salon which is also nicely decorated. They are located on Burrard street towards the south end of downtown Vancouver. If you work full time, you’ll be happy to know they are open after 5 on weekdays and on the weekends as well! Appointments can be made online and you can browse all of their services here.
How to Pick an Eyelash Extension Style
If I could go back in time, I would definitely have done more research on different eyelash extension looks. Although in the end I think you’ll have to at least do it once to figure out what you like and don’t like. I know it kind of sucks to not be able to pinpoint the design you want based on photos alone, but due to the number of lashes you have and your eye shape, the same specifications can look very different on each person.
In terms of helping your technician choose the best look, you should know how long, how curly, and how dense you want the lashes to be. For length, an average extension is between 9-12mm so you can start from there. For curl, I’d recommend a C curl to start. Lastly, I thought I wanted a classic set (1 false lash to 1 of your own lash) but I probably could have done with something more dramatic!
I also thought I wanted to focus more on the center for a more open eye doll look. But I think next time I’d want more extensions on the inner and outer corner as well. I also thought I wanted something curly but next time I’d go for something a bit more straight. Definitely save inspiration to show your technician but be realistic that it may not look the exact same on yourself.
Does Getting Eyelash Extensions Hurt?
The actual eyelash extension application does not hurt at all. The only discomfort during the application is the tape that is put across your lower lash line as it keeps the area very rigid. My appointment took just over one hour but a normal classic set should take about 1.5 hours. Also, if you come in wearing any type of makeup, you’ll have to take it all off. So it’s best to come bare faced.
Here is a comparison of my bare lashes to the newly completed classic set! I’m very impressed that I can not feel the eyelash extensions at all! I thought it would feel a little bit like wearing false lashes. But instead, I don’t feel anything on my lashes at all!
What Happens Right After Eyelash Extensions
You are advised to not expose the lashes to steam, sauna, hot water for 24 hours. I actually showered right at the 23 hour mark and I was a bit scared that I would have totally damaged my lashes. They are still going strong after 2 weeks so I think unless you are placing your face right under the shower nozzle, the bond is actually quite strong.
Can You Wear Makeup With Eyelash Extensions?
One of the reasons that I waited so long to try eyelash extensions is that I thought wearing and removing makeup will cause the extensions to fall out too fast. But you can in fact wear makeup with eyelash extensions. You just need to be a bit more careful with what you use and how you remove your makeup
Since I’ve gotten the eyelash extensions, I’ve avoided using liquid eyeliner and mascara. I’ve applied eyeshadow on quite a few days and have had no issues removing my makeup with micellar water.
Do not remove your makeup with cleansing oil! If you are a heavy makeup wearer, you may need to consider this. To remove makeup while wearing eyelash extensions, make sure to use micellar water! But don’t soak a cotton pad and leave it on your eye.
How Long Do Eyelash Extensions Last For?
The other thing that was holding me back from eyelash extensions was that I thought it doesn’t last very long! This photo was taken about a week after I got my eyelash extensions and they are still looking great! It’s been two weeks now and I still have the full effect.
Overall, I’m so happy with the look and how it makes me feel more glam! I can’t wait to try another eyelash extension now I have a better idea of what I want. My classic set was done by Roselyn and I’d highly recommend her.
I received a complimentary service in exchange for this review.
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