Are consumer lash products threatening the art of professional eyelash extension services?
With strip lash and cluster lash distributors marketing their home-application products as the easier and cheaper alternative, I want to highlight the benefits and downfalls of each option (from my personal point of view as the president of the lash association) . . .
The benefits of home-application products:
Cheaper
Quicker (once you've mastered the techniques)
Easy to find and purchase
Can be used for a special occassion without commitment
The downfalls of home-application products:
Takes practice to master application
Wearing makeup can compromise the adhesive bond causing unexpected lifting
Constantly checking on your strip lash to make sure it hasn't shifted or come loose
Must be removed at the end of each day
Consistent use of the consumer-grade adhesive can clog your folicles causing potential lash loss
They look plastic and fake
The benefits of professional application:
They don't need to be remove and reapplied each day - enjoy the finished look 24/7
No embarassing lifting in the middle of a dinner date (we've all seen that happen)
You can shower, swim, workout and sleep with them on
The service is relaxing and enjoyable
A lash artist knows how to create the perfect design to compliment your face and eye shape
They look far better than home-application products
The downfalls of professional application:
Maintenance appointments are time consuming (although some clients appreciate the time they get for a lash nap)
It can be hard to find a quality lash artist you trust (find qualified, accredited lash artists who have been approved by the lash association on the NALA directory www.nalamembers.com )
Some will say the price is a downfall - but when you compare the cost of strip lashes and calculate how many days that strip lash is good for, on a day-to-day basis there isn't that big of a differnce in cost between home-application products and professional application.
OK, clearly I struggle to find downfalls for professional application but what can I say; that's why I work here. I personally hope I never have to go without my lash extensions. I believe in this industry and I value our services. Lash artistry is a gift to the world!