For years, eyelash extensions were the exclusive secret of the rich and famous – a beauty treatment as elusive as the celebrities sporting them. Now, that luxury has become accessible to us all, we can all rock cute lashes. But have you ever wondered where it all began?

Back in the early 20th century, women coveted long, luscious lashes, but the options were limited. The early solutions? Some downright dangerous DIYs involved sewing hair into the eyelids, and the first false lashes, which were heavy, uncomfortable, and far from natural-looking.

Fast forward to the 21st century, and the eyelash extensions world has dramatically evolved. Synthetic, mink, and silk lashes entered the scene, offering various lengths, curls, and volumes to suit every eye shape and personal style. It was a big leap from the rudimentary and unsafe methods of the past.

Yet, the one thing that didn’t change was the salon exclusivity. For a long time, professional application was the only way to get that flawless, natural look. But as with all things beauty, innovation didn’t stop there.

With the rise of at-home beauty treatments, the industry quickly adapted, bringing salon-quality lashes to your very own bathroom. These DIY kits offer the same variety as salons but at a fraction of the cost and without the need for an appointment squeezed into your busy schedule.

From dangerous DIYs and heavy false lashes to today’s convenient and comfortable DIY eyelash extensions, we’ve come a long way, wouldn’t you agree? So now that we’ve taken a trip down memory lane let’s explore the different types of extensions at your fingertips today.

Types of Eyelash Extensions

When it comes to eyelash extensions, variety is the spice of life. From natural-looking enhancements to dramatic, eye-catching effects, there’s a wide range of options to suit your individual preferences.

Synthetic Lashes: 

Mink Lashes: 

Silk Lashes: 

Volume Lashes: 

Colored Lashes: 

DIY Eyelash Extensions Application: Step-by-Step Guide

Before we begin, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools and ensure you have a clean and comfortable space to work in. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Eyelash extensions
• Lash adhesive.
• Tweezers
• Makeup remover

Step 1: Prep your natural lashes

Ensure your natural lashes are clean, oil-free, and makeup-free. Remove any traces of mascara or eye makeup using a gentle cleanser. This helps the extensions adhere properly and prevents any potential irritation.

Step 2: Select and prepare the extensions

Carefully pick up an extension using your tweezers, ensuring you’re holding it from the base, not the tip. Dip the base of the extension into the lash adhesive, making sure to use a minimal amount to prevent clumping or excess glue.

Step 3: Application time

Gently place the extension on top of an individual natural lash, approximately 1-2 mm away from the lash line. Avoid attaching the extension directly to your eyelid. Hold it in place for a few seconds to allow the adhesive to set.

Step 4: Repeat and alternate

Continue applying extensions to your natural lashes, working your way from the inner to the outer corners of your eyes. Remember to alternate between your left and right eye to maintain symmetry. Take breaks if needed to rest your eyes and ensure a steady hand.

Step 5: Check and adjust

Once you’ve completed one eye, take a step back and assess the overall look. If any extensions feel uncomfortable or uneven, gently adjust or remove them using your tweezers and reapply as necessary.

Step 6: Drying and setting

Allow the adhesive to dry completely. Avoid touching or rubbing your lashes during this time to prevent any disruption to the bonding process.

And voila! You’ve successfully applied your own DIY eyelash extensions. The question is, how do you maintain them and keep them intact?

Aftercare Tips for Eyelash Extensions

Caring for your newly applied eyelash extensions is crucial to ensure their longevity and keep them looking fabulous. Here are some essential aftercare tips to follow:

• Avoid getting them wet: For the first 24 to 48 hours after application, it’s important to keep your lash extensions dry. Avoid activities that may cause excessive moisture, such as swimming, steam rooms, or hot showers. Water can weaken the adhesive bond and cause the extensions to fall off prematurely.

• Be gentle: Treat your lash extensions with care. Avoid rubbing or pulling on them, as this can damage both the extensions and your natural lashes. When cleaning your face, gently pat the eye area dry instead of rubbing it.

• Skip oil-based products: Oil-based skincare and makeup products can break down the lash adhesive, leading to premature shedding. Use oil-free cleansers, makeup removers, and eye creams instead to keep your lash extensions intact.

• Avoid mascara and eyelash curlers: One of the benefits of lash extensions is waking up to beautifully enhanced lashes without the need for mascara. Using mascara or eyelash curlers can cause clumping, damage the extensions, or weaken the adhesive.

• Brush your lashes regularly: Use a clean, spoolie brush or a mascara wand to gently comb through your lashes daily. This helps keep them separated, prevents tangling, and maintains their natural shape.

How to Safely Remove Eyelash Extensions at Home

Even with proper care and maintenance, eyelash extensions are a temporary beauty enhancement. Generally, they can stay intact for up to 4 to 6 weeks. However, the actual duration can vary depending on individual factors, such as the natural lash growth cycle and aftercare practices. 

So how do you know when to bid farewell to your beloved lash extensions? There are a few telltale signs to look out for. First, you may start to notice excessive shedding of the extensions, leaving noticeable gaps or a significant difference in length between your natural lashes and the extensions. This can be an indication that your extensions have reached their natural shedding cycle or require maintenance.

In addition to shedding, if you experience any discomfort, irritation, or adverse reactions, it’s a clear signal that it’s time to seek professional help for safe removal. 

DIY Eyelash Extensions Removal Process

While professional removal is recommended, you can still remove your eyelashes at home with caution. Here are some steps to follow:

• Begin by thoroughly cleansing your lashes with a gentle oil-free cleanser to remove any makeup, oils, or debris.
• Take a small amount of oil-based lash extension remover on a cotton pad or lint-free applicator.
• Gently swipe the saturated pad or applicator along the lash line, focusing on the adhesive. Avoid rubbing or tugging forcefully to prevent any unnecessary stress on your natural lashes.
• Allow the lash extension remover to sit on the lashes for the recommended time specified by the product instructions. This will help loosen the adhesive bond.
• After the designated time, gently pinch the base of an extension between your thumb and index finger and slide it off your natural lash. Continue this process, working from the outer corner inward until all the extensions are removed.
• Once the extensions are removed, cleanse your lashes again with a gentle lash cleansing solution to remove any residual adhesive or remover.

Remember, this is a general guideline, and the specific instructions may vary depending on the products you choose for removal. Take your time, be patient, and prioritize the safety and health of your natural lashes throughout the process.

Conclusion

DIY eyelash extensions offer a convenient and cost-effective alternative to salon visits. With the right knowledge, tools, and careful application, you can achieve salon-worthy results from the comfort of your own home.

Remember to choose the extensions that suit your desired look, follow proper application techniques, and adhere to aftercare guidelines. If you decide to remove the extensions at home, proceed cautiously and be gentle to avoid damaging your natural lashes.