As a big fan of false lashes, trying out lash extensions has been on the agenda for several years now. I know a few friends of whom have tried it out for a wedding or a holiday and absolutely loved it, and some who had tried it out and absolutely hated the results. So with mixed opinions, but with one of the leading salons in eyelash extensions booked to give me fuller, thicker and longer lashes – I couldn’t wait to see how my eyelashes would turn out.
Tucked away, just off Carnaby Street in Central London is the Lash Perfect Lash Bar. Beautifully decorated with calm, luxurious decor – you immediately escape the hustle and bustle of London and can unwind and relax. Some beauty bars in London can be very intimidating (trust me, I have visited a few) and you feel as though you are constantly on edge, however the Lash bar is very relaxed, the staff are extremely welcoming – chatting to you as though you’re a friend and the overall atmosphere instantly allows you to relax and start discussing all things lash related.
Sophy and I were booked in for half a set of lash extensions each, which differs slightly from a ‘full set’ because the extensions are fitted to every other natural lash, rather than each individual one. We were advised that this was the best way to ease us into lash extensions and provide a much subtler, natural look which was what we wanted rather than a dramatic, much fuller lash look.
After filling in a quick form about how we expected the lashes to look, we were whisked into the relaxing ‘conservatory’ area of the lash bar, and lay adjacent to one another as our lovely lash therapists discussed what lashes she was applying and what effect it would give.
Prior to the treatment, I was a little apprehensive about what fitting lash extensions actually entails. I hadn’t heard it was painful as such, but uncomfortable – and considering it takes 45 minutes to an hour, I wasn’t sure whether I would be able to withhold it. I can confirm though, that the actual procedure of fitting the lashes is by no means painful nor uncomfortable. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. It’s extremely relaxing and I actually fell asleep half way through, only to be woken up by the lash therapist to show me my new beautiful lashes. A quick afternoon nap and new lashes. What more could you possibly want?
As you can see from the before and after pictures, my lashes are much thicker, fuller and more voluminous than previously. I insisted that I wanted a really natural look, that I could pass off as my own lashes – and that is most certainly what I got. It’s a really nice feeling to not have to wear any mascara and to wake up with thick, full lashes (with minimum effort) and I can certainly see how having lash extensions is addictive!
I am off on holiday twice over the next few weeks, so I am praying that my lash extensions last until then. Many of Lash Perfect’s clients opt for lash extensions prior to going on holiday, so that they can focus on topping up their tan rather than preparing for looking glam – and I can certainly vouch for this too.
I know one friend said that her extensions took a while getting used to at first as they felt heavy and ‘mascara’ like on her eyes, whereas I honestly cannot feel that the lashes are there at all. They are very light, don’t obstruct my view in the slightest (like false lashes do when you blink) and they really do feel like they are my own. Sleeping with them isn’t a problem at all (as long as you don’t furiously rub your eyes), the only downside is – I wish I’d tried them out sooner!
I appreciate the lashes don’t last forever (which is a real shame) and that once they start falling out towards the 2 week mark, I won’t be left with such thick, full lashes (I will do an update around this point) but if you have an occasion you really want them looking full for, I would recommend getting them two days prior.
A half set costs £60 whilst a full set costs £120. I personally think a half set is enough for the kind of look I want, however if I did want the extensions for a big event or a wedding, I might opt for the full set. Considering how many sets of false lashes I go through (at £6 a pop), I definitely think that these are worth the price you pay and I am already thinking about booking myself in again. Is that bad?
Things to consider:
– Whilst you have lash extensions, you cannot wear mascara – as it is too oily and will break the bond between the extension and your natural lash. This didn’t really matter to me as the lash extensions I have are thick enough and dark enough to look like I am wearing mascara anyway.
– The lashes last up to a month, providing you take good care of them and ensure that no oily cleansers, moisturizers or make-up gets in their way. Again, this may break the bond prematurely.
– The lashes fall out on their own in accordance with your lashes natural cycle. So, there is no extra cost for removing the lashes.
Having tried them out first hand, I would whole-heartedly recommend the Lash Perfect Bar just off Carnaby Street. Their staff are not only very friendly, but also very talented at what they do and I’m sure – whatever your requirements, they will be able to meet them and leave you with lovely, long perfect lashes! Visit their website here for further details and to book.
