Don't Do This Before Getting Lash Extensions

Lash extensions seem like the perfect overnight beauty fix. Instead of searching for the ultimate mascara, just pop on some extensions and you’re good to go, right? Well, it turns out that they require a bit more work than your average fake lash. I spoke to Tirzah Shirai, founder of Los Angeles’ famous Blinkbar, to get the scoop on exactly what you should know about the beauty craze. It turns out there's one thing you shouldn't do before getting lash extensions, and the tip might just surprise you.

There are a few things to consider before coming in for the temporary procedure, but the most important details happens before you even walk in the door. According to Shirai, you should never drink caffeine before getting lash extensions. Yup, really! The Blinkbar founder, who single-handedly brought the trend from Europe to LA, is a lash pro, so this tiny tip about going caffeine free is definitely one to keep in mind. Because if Kylie Jenner trusts her, then you might as well trust her too.

"It's best to arrive to your appointment make up and caffeine free," Shirai says. "Caffeine can cause jitters and you want to be relaxed, even fall asleep in the chair."

That makes complete sense, but I never would've thought of it. Who knew the procedure was meant to be so relaxing?

That's not the only expert advice that Shirai shared. After first getting lash extensions herself while in Europe, she decided to take it upon herself to master the technique, so you know she's got a few tips up her sleeve. If you're even the least bit curious about getting semi-permanent faux lashes, then there are some things you'll want to know.

1. Wash Your Hair Before Your Go

It might seem crazy, but getting a wash in is something you probably never thought about. "Lash extensions do require some care," Shirai says. "You should be prepared to not get them wet for 24 hours after your appointment, so wash your hair before you go."

2. Maintenance Is Everything

It might seem obvious, but how long your lashes will last depends on how well you maintain them. "[Blinkbar's] full set should be maintained once a month (about every 3 to 4 weeks), but a set can last 6 to 8 weeks with proper after care," Shirai says. Two extra weeks of lushes lashes when taken care of properly? Yes, please.

3. Don't Go For A Bargain

"You should never go for the cheapest you can find, these are your eyes, and if someone doesn’t know what they are doing they could cause permanent damage," she says. There's no arguing with that!

4. Schedule A Delashing

Unlike those acrylic nails that you pick off when they start getting loose, you should never try to remove your own professionally-placed falsies. "Lash extensions must be removed professionally,' says Shirai. "Do not attempt to remove them yourself at home. This can cause damage to your own natural lashes."

5. Do Your Research

There are tons of different salons to get your lash extensions at, so you should do your research before diving right in. "It's important to know what you are getting," says the Blinkbar founder. "Make sure the salon you go to does one lash on one lash technique, not cluster lashes." According to her, the cluster approach takes less time, which seems appealing, but it can do some serious lash damage.

The famous Blinkbar salon might only be in Los Angeles, but Shirai's tips make sense no matter where you are.

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Images: Getty Images (6), Courtesy of Blinkbar (1)