Review // Lust for Lashes Eyelash Extensions
Right before I left for my trip to The Bahamas last month, I decided to try out something I had been curious about for awhile: eyelash extensions. I have a few friends who swear by them and sing their praises, and since mascara is usually one of my can't-leave-the-house-without-it beauty items, I wanted to see what all the hype was about. When I'm on vacation I'm all about low-key beauty routines and using as few products as possible (hello, saltwater beach waves and sunkissed skin!), so the idea of not having to wear mascara but still flaunting full lashes really appealed to me.
After talking to a few people about their experiences and looking at a number of options in the area, I opted for Lust for Lashes, a local Queen St. West eyelash boutique that is intimate and professional, with a focus on created finely detailed eyelash makeovers. Because I'm what they call a "lash virgin" I opted to start with the 15 minute consultation that they offer, popping in prior to my appointment to discuss what I was looking for and go over the details of how the lash application works and and how to prepare for the appointment. For someone who tends to get a little nervous about situations in which I'm not sure what to expect, I really loved having this option, and it was nice to be able to ask questions prior to my appointment. I knew I wanted my eyelash extensions to be noticeable but natural, especially with this being my first time and my tendency to not wear much makeup on a day-to-day basis, but otherwise I left it to the boutique to work their lash magic.
My eyelash extensions were applied by Michelle, the owner of Lust for Lashes, and I couldn't have asked for a better first experience. She walked me through the process step-by-step, making sure I was comfortable and understood exactly what she was doing as she applied the lashes. Though I've been told you get used to it after the first time, I found that my eyes were fluttery as I held them closed during the appointment, so I was very conscious of that and had a hard time relaxing since I was so focused on keeping them shut and trying to keep them still. It's one of those little things that you don't even think about, but it's harder than you think! Michelle was quick and precise though, with the entire process taking just under an hour, and there's no discomfort or pain whatsoever.
I had lots of questions about cleaning and care afterwards, and Michelle took the time to answer them all and give me lots of tips, as well as a little bundle of special q-tips and lash wands for taking care of my new eyelash extensions.
And the verdict? I can see how it would be easy to become a lash addict! They were perfect for my vacation and I loved not having to wear mascara but still feeling put together. The set Michelle applied were natural but gave my lashes a fullness and a little extra length that I really liked, especially at the corners of my eyes, for that sought-after flirty, bat-your-lashes effect. You can take a peek at the before and after closeups with eyes open and closed. Though I haven't had them refilled since (they don't quite fit into my 30 Day Spending Challenge!), I would definitely have them done again, especially for vacations or special events, and I like the option of adding a little more length and fullness next time, now that I've tried it once.
Photos: Jason Matos