Eyelash Extensions: To Lash or Not to Lash if You’re Over 40

It’s HUMP Day!

Happy hump day beautiful people! As today is Wednesday, it is time for another Q&A with Ask the Pro Stylist. This week’s question comes from a woman I encountered at the eyelash salon questioning whether someone her age should have eyelash extensions. Although the technicians tried to convince her, their comments were fruitless. However, as I was sitting right there, I began to explain the pros and cons: to lash or not to lash is a matter of your very own opinion.

The Pros of Eyelash Extensions

Anti-aging
Expand smaller eyes
Speeds Up Morning Regimen
Sexy as hell

The Cons of Eyelash Extensions

Could have an allergic reaction
Costly
Chance of damaging natural lashes
Maintenance

Anti-aging Benefits

Getting older just sucks, but only if you allow it to. Our bodies have comical and ironic answers to time. The places we require hair to maintain a younger appearance start to thin and disappear as the areas that were hairless now have three-inch growths sticking out of our necks. For instance, hair leaves our eyelids yet grows in our ears…yes Mother Nature is a laugh-a-minute riot. Therefore, adding eyelashes where you might be losing them will only give a more youthful look.

Expansion of Smaller Eyes

You don’t have to have ridiculously long, curly, and full false eyelash extensions. There are many styles of application, length, and density to choose from. For example, if you choose a cat-eye design, it opens your lid and makes you look more alert.

Speed Up Your Morning Regimen

Eyelash extensions always look as if you have mascara on, therefore it is never needed. Some recommend not to apply mascara, but you can. Please note, I wouldn’t use it frequently: keep the mascara to special occasions.

Sexy as Hell

Yes, they are. Nothing is sexier than looking into someone’s eyes as they bat their lashes at you. Or, as you bat your lashes to flirt. In addition, eyelash extensions add confidence. And, confidence is sexy!

Allergic Reaction

It has been known for some to have an allergic reaction to the adhesive, which contains formaldehyde. (Remember Kristin Chenoweth a few years back?) If you ever had an allergic reaction to artificial nails, I would advise against it. However, this is a conversation for you and the technician. Come armed with a list of questions on your first visit.

Costly

They ain’t cheap, and neither is the maintenance. As a result, the better the lash, the more experience the technician has, the higher the price. Additionally, just a note of caution, I do not recommend coupons or coupon sites to find a “great lash place.” Rarely have I found good outcomes. Always check reviews.

Chance of Damaging Natural Lashes

Wearing lashes or having them applied will not damage your natural lashes. However, as with artificial nails, the damage occurs in the removal. Therefore, do not pull, tug or try to remove yourself. As a result, return to the technician to have them removed properly.

Maintenance

It is imperative to follow the instructions provided. This means no water on lashes for 24 hours; do not remove makeup with an oil-based remover; use a spool to separate; wash around your eyes; don’t rub your eyes, and get a fill every two weeks. If you do not properly follow the directions, then you can expect to not have a positive outcome.

Happy Styling!

If you have a hair, makeup, or beauty question like today’s eyelash extensions query, please email me at asktheprostylist@gmail.com. Remember: stay safe, get vaccinated, and visit your lash technician for suggestions. Until then, happy styling!

©Deirdre Haggerty, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. It is unlawful to reproduce this article or any part therein without prior written permission and consent from the author.