All women want longer, thicker eyelashes, but how do we get them? From collagen and micro-fiber mascaras, to eyelash extensions and transplants, and everything in between. But which one is the best, easiest, and least expensive? We are going to give you the low-down on everything lash-related. From procedures to prices, and of course, the results.
You might be asking yourself, how the heck do they put an extension on an eyelash?
Well, eyelash extensions are applied to your own natural lashes on a hair-by-hair basis. The eyelashes can be made out of a synthetic material or real human hair. Of course, choosing the human hair will cost a bit more but most women say they have a more natural look to them. If the extensions, are applied correctly they can last up to 8 weeks, you may need to have a touch up or two in between. You must be careful not to rub your eyes, and keep moisturizers away, as it can weaken the bond from the adhesive.
After applying extensions, most women find they don’t really need mascara. If you do decide to apply mascara on top of your extensions, stay away from the water-proof mascaras as they can weaken the bond of the adhesives (and so do the products needed to remove them). So how much does it cost? If you decide to apply them yourself, they can cost any where from $5 to $50 depending on the products you chose. Going to a professional will cost you anywhere from $150 to $400 for a full-set.
What about eyelash transplants? Yes, I said eyelash transplants. With this procedure they actually remove hairs from the back of the head, insert them carefully into an incision, and “sew” it into the lash line. This can cause bruising and swelling for a few days to a week. Eyelash transplants do require an occasional trimming. They are little more maintenance, but most women who have had the procedure say it is worth it. This procedure may seem pretty extreme for some, but has worked wonders for others. Eyelash transplants typically cost anywhere from $2000 to $4000 dollars, but they don’t need to be re-applied, saving you both, time and money.
Another solution that is becoming more and more popular are “eyelash growth products” like Latisse or L’Oreal’s Lash Boosting Serum.
Latisse is FDA approved and can be prescribed by your doctor. It is applied once per day on the top lashes only. According to the Latisse website, lashes start to appear darker, fuller, and longer, is as little as 4 weeks. You will see the full growth in about 16 weeks. A small percentage of women reported side effects, so be sure to talk to you doctor about the risks. Most women who have used this product, say it is fabulous and they have definitely noticed a difference in their lashes. Latisse retails anywhere from $100-$150 depending on the area you are in.
But how do the “OTC Eyelash Growth Products” measure up? Although not dramatic results, most women did say they noticed some results with L’Oreal’s Lash Boosting Serum. Most reported seeing results after about 4-6 weeks. For the $12 price tag, most users say they will definitely buy it again. For best results, apply in the morning under mascara and at night on bare lashes.
You can also try a collagen or micro-fiber mascara to help you reach your desired lash-length and fullness.
All of these procedures and products will give you some results. So, which one is the best? Well, it really depends on how much time, effort, and money, you are willing to invest in your eyelashes.
There is one thing we do know, “Gone are the days of gluing strips of plastic eyelashes to your lids and hoping they don’t fall off in front of everyone.”
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