Everybody Knows Eyelash Perms Are Better Than Lash Extensions
When eyelash extensions became accessible to the general public a few years ago, it was as if the lash gods had descended upon makeup junkies everywhere, blessing the lash-obsessed with gorgeous, long lashes that didn't require mascara. The only problem is lash extensions aren't all they’re cracked up to be. Fortunately, our prayers were answered and the world was again blessed with some new alternatives to eyelash extensions - like eyelash perms.
If you’re like, What is an eyelash perm?, don’t worry about it. This list covers everything you need to know about perming your eyelashes, so you can get your lashes long and curly in no time. Here’s why it’s time to ditch your lash extensions for a lash perm.
Eyelash Extensions Run About $200 Per Session
Getting eyelash extensions requires an investment of both your time and your money. The average extension session involves about two hours of lying on the esthetician's table, and your initial set of lash extensions can cost anywhere from $150 - $200 a pop. If you're interested in getting the "volume" treatment - which gives you both longer and more voluminous lashes, that's gonna cost extra. Be prepared to part with about $300!
Lash Extensions Need To Be Redone Every Three To Four Weeks
After all the time and money that lash extensions require, you'd think they would last longer than a month - but, unfortunately, they don't. Extensions need to be "filled" (that's industry-speak for "touched up") about every three to four weeks, depending on how well you take care of them - and a fill will cost you another $80 - $100! Those with eyelash extensions need to avoid letting their extensions come in contact with water too frequently, and also avoid any oil-based products. So if you swear by oil cleansing, nighttime face oils, or the healing power of coconut oil, sorry! Your lash extensions won't like that.
Eyelash Extensions Can Damage Your Real Lashes
When eyelash extensions are done properly, they shouldn't make your natural lashes fall out. However, when they aren't done properly, you could end up with bald eyelids. This woman's eyelash extensions started falling out almost instantly - and brought along her real lashes with them: "I was finding lashes on my cheekbones, on the sink, on my pillow. It was horrifying, of course, but also embarrassing because I'd be out with friends and they'd be picking lashes off my face." Within three weeks, all of her lashes had fallen out, and at the four-month mark, they had yet to return.
The Glue Used For Lash Extensions Contains Formaldehyde
If you have sensitive skin, you definitely want to skip the extensions - the lash glue used in the process is known to contain formaldehyde and other skin irritants, and has caused many woman to have allergic reactions. Even actress Kristin Chenoweth was a victim of irritating lash adhesive! In 2012, she appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman wearing sunglasses due to a lash extension-related reaction, which she says made it look like “I have lips on my eyelids.” No thank you.
On The Other Hand, Lash Perms Can Last Over A Month
If you're comparing lash extensions and lash perms by how frequently you have to get your look touched up, then lash perms definitely take the cake. On average, a perm will last five to six weeks before it needs a touch up. This lash perm-lover went over seven weeks between appointments, though, and said, "While some of my lashes had surely relaxed and straightened themselves out by then, there were still enough curly ones left that I wasn't using an eyelash curler at all." Perfect for busy babes!
You Can Get A Lash Perm For Under $100!
If you want the look of lush lashes but don't have a lot of cash to drop, then a lash perm is your best option. Prices vary all over the country, from about $25 - $70 per session. For over a month of no lash curlers and no mascara, that's a pretty sweet deal (especially compared with $300 lash extensions). Honestly, it probably evens out when you think of the money you'll save on eyelash products!