Lash-mania
Glamour, sophistication and exclusivity are the buzzwords for 2017 and can be applied to your wardrobe, lifestyle and make-up. Today, whether you prefer subtle elegance or mega glam, Under The Dryer reveals one big secret that will have you looking fabulous every day of the year. Ladies, the answer has been right in front of your eyes: lashes, yes, lashes!
Today’s celebrities always seem to have the perfect lush lashes, never mind their full glam squad in tow. In the real world, however, whether our lashes are short and thick or long and sparse, we are seldom satisfied. Now, regardless of your predisposition you can have it all. Truth is, your lashes can accentuate your entire look and give you the jaw-dropping look you crave.
Under the Dryer brings you a few options to get the lash look you desire.
Mascara
The look
If you prefer subtle beauty or have been blessed with long, voluminous lashes, a tube of mascara can go a long way to avoid false lash options. With multiple applications available in a single tube, mascara can also be a big buck saver.
How to:
Many people assume they are using mascara correctly; however, there is a technique to get the full effect of this go-to product.
•You may choose to curl your lashes prior to applying mascara, but that is not absolutely necessary.
•When using mascara, it helps to tilt your head upwards and apply the wand from the base of your lashes all the way to the tips for a voluminous effect.
• Ensure that not too much product is on the wand, otherwise you could be in for a clumpy mess.
Pros
•Natural lashes are rarely damaged after mascara use.
•Mascara is an affordable option.
Cons
•When removing make-up you will have to invest in a good face wash or alternative make-up removal options to ensure all of the product is removed from your face.
•If you do not have naturally long and/or thick lashes, mascara may not do the trick for a complete glam look.
Mascara is easily the most cost-effective option and comes with various lash enhancement options whether you want your lashes to appear longer, thicker, more curled, defined and even waterproof!
It is recommended that you replace your mascara around every three months to avoid clumpy product and/or bacterial build-up.
Strip Lashes
The Look
Strip lashes/falsies can be a lot of fun but can also be a big headache. It all boils down to the application. They come in multiple brands and styles and there is sure to be a perfect fit for you.
There are many budget-friendly and easily accessible brands including Ardell and Red Cherry. These brands generally offer “human hair” lashes and have also introduced faux mink lashes — the new craze due to the natural yet luxurious look they provide.
When it comes to finding the perfect set of lashes, you may be in for a round of trial and error; however, some of the brands listed have online tools to assist you in finding the perfect pair based on your eye size and shape.
For example, someone with an almond-shaped eye and minimal eyelids might do well with shorter lashes accompanied by a thin base, whereas those with larger eyelids could opt for strip lashes with a bit more length.
How to:
•You can prep your natural lashes first by applying a light coat of mascara.
•The next step is to measure the length of the strip lash to your eye lid and to cut off the excess.
•Glue is necessary. There are many lash adhesive brands available including Duo and Quo. Some come in clear, white and black. The clear and white (dries clear) are good options for beginners, in case things get a little messy.
•Apply glue to the falsie lash band and wait until glue is tacky before applying strip to lash line.
•You may use tweezers or fingers to apply strip lashes. (Tweezers tend to provide clean and precise application.)
•If desired, you may add mascara to blend false and natural lashes. (You may also use a mascara wand with no product on it.)
•Liquid liner at the base of the false lashes to help conceal the lash band can create a clean finish.
Pros
•You can reuse at least 3-4 times if falsies are gently cleaned after each use.
•The perfect look, whether natural or glam, can be achieved with little to no damage to your natural lashes.
•They can stay on all day or night and can easily be removed for work the next morning.
•Falsies provide you with a range of prices and a world of options.
Cons
•It may take a few tries before you learn how to seamlessly apply falsies.
•The use of mascara and other products on falsies may reduce the lash life.
Lash Extensions (semi-permanent option)
The Look
If you would like a longer lasting option, say, two to eight weeks of glamorous bliss, there are a few routes you can take. The most common lash extensions, from budget friendly to budget-busting, used for this approach are synthetic, silk and mink.
These lashes are applied individually and, with the proper semi-permanent glue, should not affect the eyes. Application can be up to two hours, much longer than other lash options.
How to:
It is advised that you seek a professional to apply this option, as it requires technical expertise.
Pros
•Great if you want long-lasting lashes.
•With the help of a professional, you can achieve multiple looks with this technique.
•Once done, it can shave valuable time off of your make-up routine.
Cons
•The semi-permanent techniques may be more likely to damage natural lashes than other options.
•They may run on the costly side but that is dependent on what type you request.
•If you are someone who is always on the move, you may find the process to be a bit time-consuming.
To further explore your lash options and to discover your perfect lash look, you can visit Terry Cosmetics in Springs Plaza, Half-Way-Tree or downtown at 139 Harbour Street. They have so many options, including carnival lashes! Annibelleza is another hot spot located at Shop 17, Half-Way-Tree Mall with a wide variety of human hair lashes from Cherry Blossom, Red Cherry and Ardell to J Lash and Koko Lashes.
If you are interested in a semi-permanent option, establishments including Lashes by LC located at Kings Plaza and Fabulashes by Patricia Hue located at Blow by Blow Jamaica, Loshusan Plaza, Shop #9 in Kingston, Ja, offer lash services to keep you looking amazing all day, every day.