You can't buy happiness, But you can buy Lashes! The next best thing !

So, recently I had the pleasure of working with Jackie from Beauty by Jackie B. to get eye lash extensions. Jackie B. is a Licensed Wax Specialist and Certified Eyelash Extension Technician, located in the Inwood area of Upper Manhattan. 

Disclaimer: I was provided with a free service in return for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not influenced by the developing company , and /or its affiliates in an way. 

What are Eyelash Extensions? 

Eyelash Extensions are lashes that are applied one at a time using a specially formulated, semi-permanent glue to to enhance the length, curliness, fullness, and thickness of natural eyelashes.

BACKSTORY: On an everyday basis my make-up style gravitates to a very natural look. I always fill in my brows and add a clear or nude gloss to my lips. In terms of my lashes, I like my natural lashes to stand out by looking long and dark. To achieve this look I apply an eyelash primer along with 1-2 different mascaras. These steps can be somewhat of a nuisance and time consuming - especially when I'm in a rush.

In terms of length, my natural lashes are on the medium size length. I wouldn't consider them long or short. Personally, I feel like they're not really noticeable until mascara is applied.

As much as I love a natural look, I'm also no stranger to eyelash strips. I love the effect of a demi wispie (see image below) type of lash when going out. But applying lash strips and being comfortable with the fit did take some time to get used to. Lash strips are also something I preserve for a more dressy occasion and not worn everyday. All of these factors made me extremely excited to try out Lash Extensions! 

Prior to my Appointment

Just a few things to consider prior to your lash appointment

• Arrive to the appointment without any eye make-up
• Remove eye contacts prior to the appointment 
• Having an idea of the lash style and length that is you desire would be helpful.  (I would recommend bringing a picture or two)

The Visit and Lash Style 

I arrived to the visit as recommended with clean lashes. I've had lash extensions once about a year ago and with my history of wearing strip lashes, I had an idea of the style of lashes that I desired. My goal was to achieve lashes that were somewhere in the middle ground of natural lashes with a cat eye flare. 

For the lash application I laid on my back with my eyes closed. Jackie made sure to check that I was comfortable prior to starting. First, she started off by brushing and cleaning my natural lashes to make sure they were ready for the lash application. To keep my lower lashes out of the way, they were covered with a gel patch that was very comfortable. The gel eye patches helped to prevent my bottom lashes from sticking to the upper lashes. 

The lash application started with my lashes being separate from my other eyelashes from the others by using specialized tweezers. Then, adhesive was applied to the extension and then bonded in place. For safety reasons, extensions are always applied directly to natural lashes, never to skin. The image below is an example of a classic lash extension once bonded to a natural lash. 

CLASSIC LASH EXTENSIONS - Classic lashing is a technique where one lash extension is glued to one natural lash. This method is also known as 1 to 1 or 1:1. Classic lashes are perfect for clients who already have a lot of natural lashes, but want to add more length. Classic lashes look more natural for those who would prefer a less dramatic look. The result is an enhanced lash line, yet very natural and realistic in appearance.

• One individual lash extension applied to one individual natural lash
• Add length and curl 
• Good for clients with a lot of natural lashes

Once the first eye was completed, it was time for the next eye.

How many lashes are applied? How long does the appointment take?

Most eyelash stylists charge for appointments by how many lashes are applied. In the past when I had an eye lash extensions, the price of the appointment was determined by how many lashes were applied. Some places do as little as 50-75 lashes per eye and others do as many as 150+. This is not a technique that I'm particularly fond with as too many or little lashes may be applied. 

I discussed this with Jackie and her method is to apply lashes to each individual eye lash. This is also considered as a full set. I really like this method as it achieves a more cohesive natural looking lash line. The method of counting lashes can be some what time consuming and unnecessary. If you're looking for a subtle look, a partial set could be applied to just the outer corner of the eyes. 

The procedure length of time varies per person. I was informed that I have a lot of lashes, therefore my appointment was a little over 2 hours long. My natural lashes are also very wispy and over lap one another in odd directions. I think this also may have been a factor in the time length of my appointment. 

Caring for Your Lashes

I was advised not to get my lashes wet for 24 hours and to avoid oil based products on my eye lids and around my lash line. I was given a care card that detailed aftercare instructions along with a mascara like wand to comb out the lashes daily. The instructions were helpful in answering my general questions and more. A full set of lashes can last 4-6 weeks depending on your lash cycle and how care you care for your lashes. Fill-ins are recommended every 2-3 weeks.

As for wearing make-up, Yes, you can wear eye makeup with eye lash extensions. However, I would recommend staying away from removing eye make-up with oil-based products as they can break down the adhesive glue on the lashes. I didn't feel the need to add any other steps to my lashes (i.e. mascara) after the lashes were applied. As for cleaning the eye area, I used my favorite make-up remover, Garnier Micellar Water (oil-free version). 

Lastly, I'm sure you would like to know how the extensions are removed. Lashes grow out naturally and gradually, but lashes can also be removed professionally. I would not recommend trying to remove lash extensions on your own as you may risk causing harm to your own natural lashes.

OVERALL REVIEW

The process was not painful or uncomfortable. Jackie was very patient and took her time making the process of the lash application so comfortable that I almost fell asleep. I absolutely loved the results of my eyelash extensions. The results of the lash extensions were on the natural side, but with a fun flare. I received multiple compliments from people on my lashes as they thought the extensions were my real lashes!

I described to Jackie the look I desired and she exceeded my expectations. From the beginning of the appointment up until to the very end she was able to provide me with knowledgeable information regarding lash health that had helped me care for the lash extensions along with my natural lashes. 

The best candidates for eye lash extensions are those who love the look of length, volume, or both to their lashes. Lash extensions played a key role with cutting down my time to get ready everyday. Instead of applying 3 products (eye lash primer and two mascaras), I only needed a few seconds to comb out my lashes. For those who are into a more dramatic eye effects, having lashes already applied will allow you more time to focus on applying eye shadow and other steps in your make-up routine. 

If you're interested in the costs, they can be found on her site ( here ). When booking, tell her that I sent you :) !

Please be sure to check out Jackie's page to see the other services she provides!

If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. All are welcomed :)