90 U | March 2015

U INTERVIEW

MASCARA,goodbye

helloLASH EXTENSIONS

Eyelash extensions. To get them, or not to get them? Nayla Kurd investigates.By NAYLA KURD

March 2015 | U 91

THE TECHNICAL STUFF:

1. What is Russian volume? It’s a sustainable volumising eyelash extension Russian technique where several ultra lightweight lashes are applied to individual lashes. Unlike older techniques, such as layering or feathering, Russian volume does not excessively strain the natural eyelash. This extension technique is lighter and stronger than one-on-one extensions.

2. What are the benefits of Russian volume lash extensions? Mainly, it’s natural looking volume and lots of it. These lashes make a huge difference for clients with naturally sparse lashes. Unlike one-on-one extensions, where girls with sparse lashes end up looking 'spidery' and unnatural, this technique provides a clean finish. Another welcome advantage is lightness and strength. Thinner lashes, like the ones used when applying this technique, flex more easily and place less strain on the natural lash and glue bond.

3. What is the difference between Russian volume eyelash extensions and 3D eyelash extensions? 3D eyelash extensions are added one at a time, gluing and applying each lash on top of one another. Russian volume, however, applies several lashes together as for the glue to create a synchronous bond between the lash extensions and the natural lash. This forms a stronger bond with lesser glue and makes for a lighter and more durable treatment.

NOW, FOR THE PRACTICAL STUFF:

4. The process is very long. Like, approximately 3 hours long. And you can't really do anything but sleep while getting them done. My advice? Book an appointment when you’re angry, it’ll make you feel better, promise.

5. You’ll get hooked. So, try to ignore the fact that these long, chock-full, perfectly curled lashes are not naturally yours and will need maintenance – and by that, I mean spending more money. But, beauty doesn’t come cheap, remember that. Refills cost $60 and are recommended at around the two-week mark.

6. With great lashes comes responsibility. Eyelash extensions equal no more curling your lashes or applying mascara. Great news, right? Wrong. In fact, eyelash extensions need responsibility (to remain as fabulous as day one). But look on the bright side, it’s a tiny bit of responsibility. Svitlana Alkhass – our favourite local expert – recommends washing them every morning with a bit of Johnson baby shampoo and proceeding with brushing them. It’s less time-consuming and cleaner than applying mascara, and you’ll look like a freaking diva all day long.

7. You seriously need to brush them. Especially after showers, because I promise you, they will look like a drenched tarantula.

8. Do not, under any circumstance, wear any mascara. Seriously, just don’t do it. Allow me to explain why. Well, because after getting back home from a night out, exhausted and struggling to keep your eyes wide open, you’ll quickly and roughly scrub off your makeup. Not good. And the next morning, the evidence of your poor decisions will be scattered all over the pillowcase. And your $300 will bite the dust.

9. Also, do not, under any circumstance, try to rid of them by yourself. Having only a handful of extensions (because you won’t be able to rid of them all on your own) is much, much worse than having no extensions. Try to fight back the urge of plucking the final, awkward survivors. I repeat, you won’t be able, and it hurts.

10. Behold the infinite selfies. If you didn't take selfies before, you will now. I caught myself doing it every time I passed a mirror.

Local Expert: Svitlana AlkhassAddress: Roula Karam, Achrafieh, Monot StNumber: 01-203272 – 71-280601Instagram: @lanabeautybeirut

I ’ve always been obsessed with ‘it beauty’ trends, magic lotions and potions and makeup hacks that make life a little more fun. So, imagine my excitement when I heard about a properly

done Russian volume eyelash extension service in my local town. And, after I got them done, I figured it would be irresponsible not to share my fabulous discovery with y’all. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering eyelash extensions (and frankly, you should).