Lash Extensions: Courtney Akai Debunks The Myths For You

Fact: Everyone seems to have a revisionist history of how often they shed lashes before getting extensions. OBVIOUSLY, like the drama extensions impart on your gaze, they'll also provide to a shed lash, which looks like a much bigger deal when strapped with the cargo of a thick, silk reinforcement. This is just one of the several questions I'm asked about my lash extensions on a regular basis. For years, I've trusted my fringe to Courtney Akai of Courtney Akai Lash Boutique, who's extended the lashes of many celebs. Here, she clarifies what's true and what's not when it comes to extensions.

MYTH 1: Lash Extensions aren't safe because of the glue used and can cause an eye infection – or worse.

First, it's important to understand the difference between an allergic reaction and an infection. A licensed and experienced lash technician will not let an infection occur, but if you’re allergic to the glue, you’re still going to be allergic – this doesn’t mean the glue is harmful. The first thing you can do is make sure that the glue being used is made in the United States so you know that it's fresh and safe. Courtney Akai’s glue, approved by ophthalmologists, is made domestically verses many lash houses that use glues produced in China. Glues manufactured overseas often contain formaldehyde, which can build up by the time the product reaches the salon. As for trying to prevent an allergic reaction,  your technician should ask you if you have sensitive eyes or any known allergies to makeup before they begin. Even if you're not sure, they will be able to see if your eyes are tearing up during the service and will adjust the glue accordingly. 

*QUICK TIP* If you experience any burning or discomfort during the service, you should certainly speak up! Getting Lash Extensions should be a completely pain-free experience.

MYTH 2: Lash Extensions damage your own eyelashes and cause them to fall out.

Eyelashes naturally grow and fall out in cycles of 30 to 60 days, which is why Courtney Akai suggests light lash maintenance every three to four weeks to maintain a full look. When done correctly, lashes do not fall out from extensions, because there is no way for this to happen if each extension is glued onto one single lash. When someone inexperienced applies lashes, they often apply one synthetic lash to three to four natural lashes, causing clumps and the lash to break and fall out. Otherwise, the only way your lashes will fall out is if you pick at them or try to pull them out yourself.

MYTH 3: All Lash Extension Salons are the same.

False. Before you choose a salon for your extensions, take precautions and ask the right questions. Just like you would with a hairstylist, research who you want to go to and how long they have been working as a technician. Look at before-and-after photos, read reviews and always make sure they are licensed and lash certified! Getting lash extensions is a fabulous service is completely safe if you go to someone who is experienced, licensed and using safe materials.

 *QUICK TIP* Not everyone can achieve the same look with eyelash extensions – the length and density of your natural lash should be evaluated by your technician before expectations are set. 

Have you taken the lash extension plunge? How was your experience? 

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