Lash Education and Care Guide

What are eyelash extensions?

Eyelash extensions serve to lengthen and thicken your own natural eyelashes. Lash extensions are single strands of synthetic eyelashes, curved to replicate a natural eyelash. They are applied to each individual natural eyelash one by one for a natural, beautiful, and voluminous look. Eyelash extensions are perfect for special occasions or for day-to-day wear. Wink never uses lash strips or clusters.

What is the difference between classic and volume lash extensions?

Classic lash extensions are applied using a method in which one lash extension is applied to one natural lash. Classic lashes are perfect for clients who already have a lot of lashes but want to add more length. It’s also great for clients who simply just want a more natural look.

Volume lash extensions are applied using a method in which multiple, thin, light-weight lash extensions are applied to one single natural eyelash. The lashes appear lighter, fluffier, and gives clients a fuller look. Volume lashes are perfect for clients who don't have a lot of lashes, have sparse lashes, bald spots on their lash line, or just want a more dramatic look without having to use a thicker lash.

How long do lash extensions last?

For some, it may last for a couple months. While others may shed within a couple days. All hair on your body follows a unique growth cycle and will grow to a specific length before shedding. Because each individual eyelash is in its very own growth cycle, it is perfectly normal to lose a few natural eyelashes every day. Your individual eyelash cycle, combined with how well you care for the eyelash extensions, will determine how long they last.

With proper at-home care and lash fill appointments every two to four weeks, your extensions can last indefinitely.

What is the lash application process?

The process should be relaxing in nature. After you lie down on the table, a Wink Licensed Esthetician will cover your lower lashes with a soothing gel pad to protect your lower lashes during application. You then relax with your eyes closed. Many clients fall asleep during the procedure.

How long does the application take?

The average full-set of eyelash extensions takes approximately two hours for classic and two and a half to three hours for volume. The average maintenance appointment for fills takes from one to one and a half hours.

Is it safe for my eyes?

Eyelash extensions, when properly applied, are completely safe. The extensions are applied with a special adhesive that is similar to what is used in the medical field for suture-less stitches.

What kind of adhesive do you use?

The type of adhesive we use for lash extension application is called cyanoacrylate.

Will eyelash extensions damage my lashes?

When eyelash extensions are properly applied, they will not damage your natural eyelashes. Your natural lashes are always shedding and cycling back. The extensions should simply fall off during this natural shedding cycle. The extensions themselves do not cause your lashes to fall out or become damaged unless your technician is applying extensions that are too long or thick for your natural lashes.

What do eyelash extensions look like when applied?

Lash extensions are literally an extension of your eyelashes. A skillfully trained Wink Licensed Esthetician will ensure that there is no clumping with precise application. Wink practices a lash-for-lash application, so you can always expect perfectly separated, gorgeous lashes.

Can I wear mascara?

It is not recommended to wear mascara over the eyelash extensions as it can weaken the bond of the adhesive and cause premature loss of the extensions. However, you may wear water-based, non waterproof mascara on the lower lashes, being careful when applying and removing them. Waterproof mascara is never recommended.

Can I use lash curlers?

Eyelash extensions do not require additional curling. If you are looking for more curl, ask your Wink Licensed Esthetician to apply a curlier lash. If you need to curl your natural lashes to blend them in, the only recommended type is a heated eyelash curler. Never use mechanical curlers.

How do I care for them?

The more meticulous you are about caring for your eyelash extensions, the longer you can expect them to last.

• Use only water based and oil-free products around your eye area, including mascara and makeup remover. Oil based products will break down the adhesive bond.

• Creams and serums should be applied sparingly, and no closer to than the orbital bone. Anything that has not absorbed after two minutes can be blotted with a tissue or blotting paper. 

• Avoid waterproof mascara. If you can, it is better not to use any mascara at all as wearing mascara regularly will decrease the time between touch-up appointments. 

• Always wash your eyelashes with gentle foamy cleanser, like baby shampoo, applied gently with your fingers and wash with water every single day. Remember, eyelashes are meant to protect our eyes from debris, dirt and dust. Dry thoroughly by blotting (not rubbing) with a towel or blow drying on a cool setting, then spin through with a clean mascara wand.

• Avoid using cotton swabs or pads that will leave lint and catch on your extensions. 

• Avoid using an eyelash curler as it creates a kink in your eyelash extensions, hence reducing the life of your extensions. 

• Do not rub, pick, twist or pull at your lashes or eyelash extensions.

• If you can, sleep on your back to avoid the risk of lashes rubbing against your pillow.

• Be gentle with your lashes. How you care for eyelash extensions will directly affect the look of your lashes as well as the length of time between touch-up appointments.

• If you would like them removed, please contact a Wink Licensed Esthetician.

• If you experience any pain, redness or irritation, contact your Licensed Esthetician immediately.

Is it approved by the FDA?

The FDA does not currently regulate eyelash extensions, nor do they approve eyelash extension adhesive.

Eyelash extension regulations vary widely between countries, and even from state to state. In the U.S., many states do require you to be a licensed esthetician or cosmetologist in order to perform an eyelash extension service.

How will I know what “look” to choose?

Your Wink Licensed Esthetician will perform a thorough consultation before applying your full set of eyelash extensions to determine your desired effect and suitable lengths and diameters to use. If you would like to make any adjustments, you can advise your Wink Licensed Esthetician of requests before or during your subsequent appointments.

What type of lashes do you use?

Wink stock an extremely wide selection of lash lengths, thickness, and curl shapes. This variety ensures you the best look for your eyes, and not just the most popular sizes. We use 100% polyester fiber extensions, otherwise known as synthetic minks.

We also carry real mink and sable lashes, which are cruelty free, obtained by gently brushing live animals, without harming them. This gentle, meticulous procedure ensures that no animals are harmed during the entire harvesting process, while preserving the quality of the harvested fur. In addition, every single lash are sterilized and hand assembled to ensure quality and durability.

What if I have skin sensitivities and allergies?

Although skin sensitivities and allergies are extremely rare, and your safety and care is our utmost concern. Wink uses the highest quality products and sanitation protocols in the industry. However, Wink Beauty Boutique is not liable for any type of reaction due to our products used. If you are concerned, please call Wink for a patch test several days before your appointment.

How do I prepare for my appointment?

If you use waterproof mascara, avoid using it 2-3 days before your appointment. The film it leaves on your lashes may prevent the extensions from adhering correctly. Arrive to your appointment with dry, clean lashes and no makeup. The more time your Wink Licensed Esthetician must spend cleaning your lashes, the less time you have for the application. This, in turn, will lead to less lashes being applied. Remove contact lenses before your appointment.

What should I do in the initial 24 - 48 hours after my appointment?

Avoid hot steam from showers, facials, saunas, and swimming pools for the first 24 hours. Avoid tanning beds for 48 hours after application and always make sure your eyelashes and eye area are covered during any tanning application. Avoid chemical peels, waxing or laser treatments around the eyes. If you experience any pain, redness or irritation, contact your Wink Licensed Esthetician immediately.