False eyelashes and eyelash extensions both instantly give lashes a longer, darker, and thicker look, helping to enhance and define eyes. While each beauty method has the same purpose, the outcomes are not identical and these methods are not considered to be the same.
A major defining factor between false strip eyelashes and eyelash extensions, is longevity. False lashes, or "fake” lashes, are a temporary fix usually lasting at the most between 8 hours to 1 day. False eyelashes also have a reusability factor of approximately 4 times max. On the other hand, with proper aftercare, eyelash extensions can last as long as 4 weeks before needing any retouching.
The final look achieved by false eyelashes and eyelash extensions are very different, mainly because of the technique behind each approach. False eyelashes consists of a band with several strands made of synthetics and silks. It is recommended that the adhesive for false lashes be applied to both the strip of fake eyelashes and the individual's eyelids. Because the glue touches the skin, false eyelashes are more likely to cause irritations and damage the natural eyelashes upon removal than eyelash extensions.
Unlike false lashes, eyelash extensions are applied one strand at a time, allowing for a more natural and customized look that is unachievable with fake lashes. Additionally, a surgical grade adhesive is usually employed and is applied to the ends of the natural eyelash. Therefore, the adhesive and the extensions never come in contact with the surrounding skin. As a result, damages to the eyes are not possible and the likelihood of irritations in comparison to false eyelashes is significantly reduced.
With the right maintenance, eyelash extensions can withstand the natural hair growth cycle, meaning they can last until the eyelash naturally falls out.
Eyelash growth cycle refers to the cycle of time an individual's eyelashes naturally falls out and begins re-growth. There are three stages involved in the hair growth cycle:
The anagen phase is the only stage in which actual hair growth occurs. The hair then enters the transition and resting phases, until a new strands begins to grow, causing the current hair to fall out. Thus, the extensions bonded to the natural eyelashes also fall out as well. The whole cycle usually takes between 60 to 90 days and thereby, eyelash extensions can also last that long.
For best results, it is recommended that eyelash extensions do not contact any moisture within 48 hours after the procedure. This includes:
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Showering
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Perspiration
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Swimming
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Steam
After the first 48 hours, activities involving any form of moisture may resume although it is best to avoid excessive exposure to water and steam.
It is also recommended that waterproof mascara and oil based products are avoided. One of the main advantages of eyelash extensions are defined eyes and eyelashes, achieved without any mascara. However, some clients prefer to still use mascara. In this case, it is best to use a water based mascara, or a mascara specifically designed for eyelash extensions. Other mascaras like waterproof compromise the adhesive used to secure the lash extensions, causing them to fall off the natural eyelash. Oil based products should also be avoided. Such products may include:
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Makeup
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Makeup remover
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Skin and eye creams
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Facial cleansers
Ingredients labeled on the product will indicate whether or not it is oil based. Be sure to read all labels on product packages before applying to areas on the face and particularly on, or around, the eyes and eyelashes.
Eyelash extensions are easy to remove, should the client desire. One can either wait for the extensions to fall off with the natural eyelashes at the end of the hair growth cycle, or make an appointment with a professional in which a specialized adhesive remover is employed. If aftercare instructions are followed properly, eyelash extensions can last up to about 3 months. The process is completely safe and pain free, and results are significantly yet subtlety noticeable.