They call it fall for reason. Leaves fall from trees. Clocks fall back an hour. You might even notice that your lashes seem to be falling off (or shedding) a bit more than usual. There’s no need to panic. It’s perfectly normal and we have a few tips to get you through it.
All of your lashes are in different stages of their growth cycle. There are baby lashes just appearing and growing (the Anagen phase lasting 15 to 20 days), “teenage” lashes (transitional Catagen phase lasting 14 to 21 days), and mature lashes (the resting Telogen phase lasting 30 to 45 days). In fall and winter, the length of the cycle can shift, and lashes may shed more frequently.
Everything starts closer to the end of the summer. During this time, intense heat may trigger more lash hairs to go into the resting phase, stopping growth, and causing them to fall out over the next month or two.
Also when temps and humidity start to drop in autumn, if your skin is dry, your hair follicles (located just below the skin) aren’t being as nourished. Translation: their growth is affected and they can become brittle. Result: they fall out before their time is up.
There are a few ways to help your lashes stay full throughout the fall and winter months.
Invest in a lash growth serum to help them stay nourished. We love LiLash Purified Eyelash Serum because it can be safely used with lash extensions. It conditions and nourishes follicles to boost the appearance of length and thickness of your lashes. Grab one during your next visit at any of our locations or order online.
Take Vitamin D. Known to keep bones and skin healthy, in recent years, it’s also been linked to boosting hair growth. A 2012 study in the journal Stem Cells Translational Medicine suggests that Vitamin D can actually help create new follicles!
Don’t wait three weeks for refill. Come in sooner. Heavier shedding means more frequent fills, so we’ll see you soon!
We know lash extensions are not for everyone (despite our personal obsession). However, some might think they're not the lash type until they have the right set. Often times, we hear clients tell us they don't want them to look “fake" because they've seen so many “fake" looking sets. Chances are that those super-dramatic lashes are exactly what those particular clients requested. That doesn't mean you have to walk around like that. Mega volume sets are the only ones you might notice, since the more subtle extensions look so close to our natural lashes (but better!). Sometimes, it's just about finding what works best for you and your eyes.
Patch Test
If you're concerned about a sensitivity or an allergic reaction, we offer a complimentary patch test to all clients. It is not required but recommended, especially if you're getting lash extensions for a wedding, vacation, or another special event. We would hate for you to have red puffy eyes for your wedding photos. During a patch test, we apply about 10-20 lash extensions per eye. The lashes we apply are very short and will blend right in with your natural lashes so you can go about your day. Typically, we'll use a mild adhesive on one eye, and a stronger adhesive on the other. This ensures that even if one adhesive is too strong for you, the other one might be perfectly fine. If you experience no reaction within 24-48 hours, chances are you are in the clear for a gorgeous set of lashes!
Consultations
We offer complimentary lash extension consultations to all our guests, especially those that are getting extensions for the first time. If you want to skip the full consultation, our lash artists will still discuss options with you prior to starting your full set. Photos are always helpful for the lash artist to get a good idea of your desired look. We'll often ask questions about your daily routine, including how much or how little makeup you wear on a daily basis. This helps us judge how dramatic or subtle of a set you're looking for.
Follow-Up
All of our New Sets come with a complimentary 30-minute follow-up appointment. Although we get a pretty good idea of what our clients are looking for during the consultation, sometimes the lashes come out ever-so-slightly too short, long, full, or not full enough after your new set. We offer this complimentary follow-up appointment to make those little adjustments within 7 days of your new set to make sure we get the lash extensions to your liking.
Even our regulars occasionally need a reminder that lash extensions are customizable. Changing the length, shape, and fullness can make quite a difference. We never want you to feel like you're “stuck" with lashes that you aren't pleased with. Communicate with your lash artist if you ever want to try something new. We are always happy to accommodate and try new things to make you look and feel your best!
Summer in New England might turn all of us into sun worshipers, but our skin will thank us later if we keep it protected from harmful UV rays. While we might want a little tan after hibernating all winter, sun exposure causes premature signs of aging that nobody wants. Our Eminence Organic Skin Care line has all the essentials to protect you from the sun, and to help reverse damage caused by UV rays.
One of our favorite SPF products is our
Bright Skin Moisturizer. Not only is this an SPF40 moisturizer, it is also packed with organic ingredients to brighten your complexion. Whether it's sun-spots, hyper-pigmentation, or any dark spots that we notice as we age, this hydrating, yet lightweight moisturizer helps to minimize areas of darkness overtime.
If you're grabbing lunch with the girls or hopping on the ferry to Nantucket, SPF is crucial! We have just the thing to keep you protected, while adding a little more "glow." Our
Sun Defense Minerals is an SPF and makeup combined! What more could you ask for!? Simply brush this super-light-weight mineral powder all over your face with the convenient retractable brush. The SPF30 mineral powder is already in the brush, so no need for extra steps. Perfect to throw in the beach bag, or to leave in the car for a quick touch-up. Comes in several shades for every skin-tone under the sun.
When it's a work day instead of a beach-day, reverse the signs of again with our
Citrus & Kale Potent C & E Serum. This lightweight serum is great for all skin types, delivering antioxidants to help brighten skin, improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles, and reduce the appearance of free radical damage.
Visit our Wellesley location to see all our amazing Eminence products. See something online that we don't have in stock? Let us know, and we'll order it for you!
Worship that sun all summer long, but never without a good SPF!
As the hot summer months approach, clients often think that lash extensions don't mix with outdoor activities. We are here to give you our sun-loving lash tips to keep your extensions looking hot all summer long!
Pool Daze
Clients often ask if they can go swimming with lash extensions. Of course! Not being able to jump into a refreshing pool during a New England summer would be torture. Enjoy that water as often as you can. After you go for a dunk, rinse lashes with cool, fresh water to rinse away chlorine. This will help keep the extensions in their best shape. Be sure to brush lashes with a spoolie to fluff them back into place as they dry.
Beach Bum
Much like the chlorine in a pool, we recommend rinsing away salt water as well. As you run Baywatch-style from the ocean, splash some cool bottled water onto your lashes to rinse away salt and debris. When sun-bathing (with SPF of course), be sure to give your lashes a little splash of fresh water every now and then to keep any sweat from falling into your lashes. Not to mention, that burst of cold water just feels fantastic in the hot summer sun! Speaking of SPF, avoid applying sunscreen directly to your lashes. Oil-based products, like sunscreen, will break down the adhesive and cause extensions to fall out prematurely. If possible, look for an oil-free sunscreen, and still avoid getting any on the lashes.
Heat Wave
For those 90-degree days where the humidity and sweat are just inevitable, we recommend booking your lash fills a little closer together. If you typically go every three weeks, try coming in every two weeks to keep lashes looking nice and full during those few super-hot weeks.
Lash Vacation
If you are going away on a long overseas vacation and sadly need to take a break from lash extensions, we totally understand, and are happy to recommend the perfect place-holder: The lovely Lash Lift. A Lash Lift is a semi-permanent lift and curl of your natural lashes, giving a more eye-opening look that lasts 6-8 weeks. With the exception of the first 24-hours, lashes can get wet or sweaty with no repercussions and minimal upkeep.
However you choose to spend your summer, don't let the heat keep you from looking and feeling your absolute best!
The more time we have for your appointment, the more lashes we’re able to give you. We completely understand that everyone runs late every now and then and are happy to accommodate whenever possible.
Come in with Clean Lashes
Even if you are not wearing makeup, oils and dead skin cells build up on our lashes and prevent extensions from adhering properly. We ask that you wash your lashes with our foaming lash cleanser in the restroom when you arrive. Washing them as close to your appointment as possible is ideal, as our skin is constantly producing oils. We will also offer a complementary lash bath if needed.
Take a Lash Nap
Relaxation is key for the most productive lash fill. Feel free to let us know you’d like to take a nap and we’ll be sure to let you rest and wake up with beautiful lashes.
Avoid Caffeine Prior to appointment
Caffeine is a stimulant. Even if you don’t feel it, caffeine often makes eyelids very twitchy. This constant movement makes it very difficult to attach an extension to. The more still and relaxed you are, the more lashes we can apply.
"Me Time"
Be sure to put your phone on silent so you can relax and not disrupt other guests. We know emergencies happen, but please try to avoid asking your lash artist to read a text message for you during your service. They are focused on giving you a beautiful set of lashes. We also ask that you don’t bring any children or guests into the spa during your appointment.
Extra Time
Let us know if you don’t have to be anywhere after (or if you have to be out by a certain time). If we don’t have anyone scheduled after you, we are always happy to spend a little extra time on your lashes if you have nowhere to be.
Speak Up
If you feel any discomfort at all during the service, whether something is stinging, itchy, or you just need a sip of water, don’t hesitate to tell your lash artist. We want you to have the most comfortable lash experience.
Book Your Refill in Advance
Our lash artists book up quickly, especially in the busy warmer months. Booking several appointments in advance is a great idea to ensure your lashes stay full.
Have Fun with your Lashes
Let your lash artist know if you ever want to switch it up! Try a new curl, length or design. We also have black lashes, brown lashes, and all the colors of the rainbow to try!
Dermaplaning immediately rejuvenates the skin by removing the top layer of skin cells along with vellus hair. It is highly effective in minimizing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars, while leaving skin smooth, supple, and vibrant. It has been utilized in medical practices for over 40 years to prepare the skin for chemical peels and laser treatments. Dermaplaning increases the penetration of active ingredients in treatment room and home care products. It creates the perfect canvas for makeup application.
Am I a good candidate for Dermaplane?
The ideal client is focused on anti-aging. She is concerned about dull, dry skin, a sallow complexion, enlarged pores, fine lines, hyperpigmentation and perhaps acne scars. She's interested in the removal of peach fuzz and may already be using retinol. She is typically over 30 and interested in maintaining a youthful, healthy appearance and looking good both in person and in photos.
Is it safe?
Dermaplaning is a physical/mechanical exfoliation that is extremely safe when performed by a professionally trained skin care specialist utilizing the appropriate tools and practices for the service. Low quality tools, including blades not designed for dermaplaning and inexpensive handles that don't lock the blade on tight, are responsible for increased risk of injury to the client.
How long does the service take?
At Lash L'Amour we offer three types of Dermaplane services:
Dermaplane - 45 minutes
Dermaplane with Eminence Facial - 1 hour
Dermaplane + HydraFacial Approximately 1.25 hour
How often can I book a Dermaplane service?
We recommend a Dermaplane treatment once per month.
Won't my facial hair grow back thicker?
No. We only remove the vellus hair (peach fuzz), so the hair grows back exactly how it previously did.
What should I do prior to my appointment?
Avoid the use of any retinols or Retin-A at least 5 days to Dermplaning. Avoid chemical peels at least 14 days prior to Dermaplaning. Avoid any injectables like Botox or fillers at least 1 week prior to Dermaplaning (they can be done immediately following Dermaplaning if desired).
What should I do after my appointment?
Do not use abrasive cleansers, wash clothes or hot shower spray for 24-48 hours after the service.
Avoid the use of any retinols 5 days post-treatment.
Wash all makeup brushes & sponges. Makeup can irritate the skin after Dermaplaning
Avoid sun exposure as much as possible. SPF is essential even on cloudy days.
Delay exposure to excessive heat, sweat, and steam rooms.
Tired
of struggling with a lash curler every morning, only to have your lashes start
drooping down a few hours later? A lash lift might be the perfect solution for
you! Lash Lifts have made their way to the spotlight in the last few years, and
we couldn't be more excited about them! We're answering all your questions
about lash lifts to put your mind at ease and get you as excited as we are!
What is a Lash Lift?
A
lash lift uses a silicone rod and a two-step cream solution to lift and curl
your natural lashes in an upward, lifted position. The result is a brighter,
more awake look, making lashes appear longer and fuller.
Am I a good candidate for a lash lift?
If
your natural lashes are super short, sparse, or very fine, we recommend lash
extensions over a lift. A lash lift works with your own natural lashes, so it won't
fill in gaps or add volume. On the other hand, if lashes are average or long in
length, straight, downturned, or overly curly, a lash lift is the perfect
low-maintenance service for you! A lift helps your natural lashes reach their
full potential, so if you've already got the length, the lift showcases all
those luscious lashes.
Is a lash lift safe?
Yes!
The lift solution never touches your skin and your eyes are kept closed for the
duration of the treatment. We use Elleebana Lash Lift, which is one of the most
recommended brands for lift treatments. We take great care in making sure the
solution only touches the base of your lashes, to avoid over-processing or
damaging the tips. We also recommend waiting at least 6 weeks in between lifts
to avoid over-processing the lashes. This allows time for the natural growth
cycle of our lashes, so we aren't lifting the same set of lashes that we
already did.
Does it hurt?
No!
This is a pain-free service. Of course, if you feel any irritation at all,
please let your esthetician know right away to remedy the situation. If you have a history of allergic reactions to
makeup or adhesives, a complimentary patch test is recommended prior to the
service. We will test the adhesive and the lift solutions on your skin, to
ensure a safe and pleasant treatment for you.
How long does the lash lift take?
A
lash lift takes approximately 45 minutes. One hour if you pair it with a
beautiful tint to darken and enhance lighter lashes.
What
should I do before coming in for a lash lift?
Please come in
with no eye makeup. Makeup residue could prevent the lift solution from working
properly.
Are lash lifts high maintenance?
No!
Lash lifts last an average of 6-8 weeks. Keep in mind that you may notice new
growth coming in after several weeks as part of your normal growth cycle. You will
need to keep your lashes dry and free of makeup and oily products for the first
24 hours after the treatment. Avoid rubbing your eyes and sleeping on your face
while you have a lash lift. After the first 24 hours, you are free to wear
makeup, wash your face, or go for a swim. Lashes will stay lifted and gorgeous!
What is Lash Botox?
“Lash Botox" is an add-on treatment to a lash lift to deep condition your natural lashes. Lift solution can be drying to our hair, so adding a conditioning treatment every now and then helps to boost the elasticity and keep the follicle healthy and hydrated. Using a lash growth serum, like
LiLash, is also a great way to continually keep lashes hydrated and healthy even after the service is complete.
We hope we answered all your lash lift questions! As always, you can call our friendly front desk team to answer any further questions you may have or to
book your appointment. We hope to see you soon!
During the summer months, you might notice that your lashes grow and shed faster than usual. There are many factors in the summer time that will contribute to premature shedding. Below is a few simple tips to help your lash retention while you have fun in the sun.
Sunscreen
Always use sunscreen to protect your beautiful skin, just not on your lash extensions. Sunscreen has a lot of oil. It will breakdown the adhesive and cause poor retention .
Swimming
Wear goggles when possible in seawater or a chlorinated pool. After a good swim, don't forget to give your lashes a freshwater rinse and gently brush. This will remove some of the salt water or chlorine from your extensions.
Sun bathing
Wear stylish floppy hat and a pair of cool shades to avoid direct sunlight on your lashes. Direct sunlight has a tendency to mess with the glue bonds, making lash loss more likely.
Eyelash extensions make summer beauty effortless. It is easy to follow the above tips to keep your lashes camera ready.
We, first and foremost, hope everyone remains healthy and safe throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Due to the temporary closing of our spa, we know most of you will have many grown-out lash extensions that we would normally remove during your fill. For those of you feeling any discomfort from those over-grown lashes, we want to offer you an at-home solution for removing your own extensions. We can't stress enough that we would not recommend this under normal circumstances, which is why our lash removal service is always complimentary to existing clients. However, because we can't do it for you at this time, we would rather teach you the best possible way to remove your own extensions, than have you pull out or damage your natural lashes.
Remove all eye makeup
Fill a heat-safe bowl with steaming hot water
Set the bowl on a table or countertop where you can bend down over it.
Put a towel over your head, then lean over the steam for 15 minutes
Be careful not to get too close to the water, as it could scald your face.
Position the towel so that it encircles the bowl and traps in the steam.
The steam will loosen the glue on your extensions so it comes off more easily.
Soak a cotton swab in olive or coconut oil Soak a cotton swab in olive or coconut oil
Make sure cotton swab is completely saturated
Swipe oil over lashes
Start at the inner corner of your lashes. Keeping your eyes completely closed, make several passes to coat the extensions in the oil. You may need to use multiple cotton swabs to completely coat the lashes. Once lashes are completely coated, let sit for one minute. Begin swiping lashes in a downward motion with a cotton swab or comb through with a spoolie brush. Extensions should start to come off. Keep gently swiping until all extensions are removed.
**If your skin starts to feel irritated, stop use immediately. If oil gets in your eye, flush it out with cold water.
Use a face cleanser to wash away excess oil
LiLash serum is recommended with or without lash extensions to promote the health and integrity of your natural lashes.
Again, this is an alternative solution while our spa is temporarily closed. In the future, we ask that you please come in for a complimentary removal when needed.
We can't wait to see you again soon, and give you more beautiful lashes! Take care of yourselves and loved ones!
Lashes by our master lash artist - Natalie Seguin
When your lash artist warns you that your natural lashes “need a break," there is usually a reason she is saying that. And chances are it has nothing to do with your natural lashes and everything to do with your faux ones and how they're being applied.
We need a break from a lot of things – the weather, our significant other, the news. But if your lash technician is giving you the right service with care and quality, long lashes aren't something you would need a break from.
Here are a few reasons your lashes might require a little time off:
Your lash expert is isolating the natural lashes improperly. It can lead to long-term issues. Improper isolation will caused your natural lashes to clump together, causing them to become stressed, breakage and fall out prematurely.
Your natural lashes have had enough of the big flares they're sadly being subjected to. And rightfully so! When a technician applies “cluster" lashes (big flares of five to seven lashes with a knot joining them at the bottom), they actually lay them on top of multiple natural lashes. The clusters are too heavy to put on individual lashes, so this seems like a great idea. But instead, it causes follicle stress and breakage to the natural lashes.
Your lash extensions are too heavy for your natural lashes. You might want mega volume looks, but if you don't have a strong natural lash. Lashes are not one-eye-fits-all. They range from thin and fine to coarse and thick. Some are dry, others are oily. There's even straight or curly. A properly trained lash technician will assess the limit of what your natural lashes can handle. It's also important for you to be realistic and believe (and adhere to) their advice. Do it for your lash health. With the right extensions in place, the only break you'll have to take is from using mascara on your lovely long lashes.
