The first time you get a full set of lashes can be the start of a very long addiction.
But how much do eyelash extensions cost?
The answer, as always, depends on where you live, where you get them done and what type of lashes you want.
Sydney is one the most competitive cities in terms of pricing for things like eyelash extensions so the cost is significantly less than in Melbourne. And if you’re in an area where there’s less competition the price will usually be at the higher end.
Plus, there are SO many options: half set, full set, 3D, 4D, 5D, Russian doll, volume lashes … the list goes on.
Whatever type of eyelash extensions you choose, the experience lasts about 2 hours. During which time you’ll be laying on a reclining beauty table and feeling like teeny tiny angels are dancing on your eyelids.
Before you book your first lash session, here’s everything you need to know about eyelash extensions.
What are eyelash extensions?
Eyelash extensions are delicate little lashes that are made out of mink, silk or synthetic fibres.
Lady Lash in Sydney was founded by Charlotte Creasey in 2013 and she knows a thing or two about the different types of lash extensions.
Synthetic
“These are made from a polished, acrylic material and are the firmest/sturdiest of all. In appearance, they are a little shinier or glossier than the mink or synthetic, and when applied quite thickly, more dramatic.”
Silk
“These are the mid-weight type of lash extensions, and are finer and more flexible than the synthetic type. Because they are softer and more porous, they tend to hold on slightly longer than the synthetic ones.”
Mink
“We use faux-mink lashes, which are man-made fibres, designed to imitate real mink fur. They are very fine, soft and silky, just like real fur. However, they have been improved, in that if you wet them, they won’t lose their curl.”
How long do eyelash extensions last?
Simply Brows & Lashes in Melbourne says, “Our high-grade silk lash extensions last the life of a natural lash (average 5-6 weeks), however, they will need to be maintained with refills.”
The types of lashes you get is varied and how much eyelash extensions cost is related to the amount of individual lashes used.
An example price list at Simply Brows & Lashes:
- NATURAL VOLUME – 200/300 lashes per eye $260
- MEDIUM VOLUME – 400/500 lashes per eye $300
- FULL VOLUME – 600/700 lashes per eye $350
Refills are recommended every 1-4 weeks. The Price for refills at Simply Brows & Lashes:
- 1-2 WEEK REFILL $120
- 3 WEEK REFILL $140
- 4 WEEK REFILL $160
Different types of eyelash extensions
Always Elegant Lashes in Parramatta and Bondi Junction offer a full spectrum of eyelash extensions.
Everything from Natural, Glam and Hybrid (“a blend of volume fans and classic lashes”) to Classic.
Volume lashes offer the fullest look. According to Always Elegant, “Volume lashes are fanned groups of 2, 3, 4 or 5 whisper thin lashes carefully positioned onto a single natural lash. The results are full and fluffy and are also known as 3D Lashes.”
A Full Set of new lashes at Always Elegant costs:
- Natural Set: $139
- Glam Set: $169
- Hybrid Set: $179
- Volume Set: $199
- Infills: from $65
How do you remove eyelash extensions?
The good (and the not so good, depending on how well you take care of them) is that they’ll grow out with your own eyelashes.
If you look after your eyelash extensions by brushing daily with a naked mascara wand then your eyelash extensions should stay well groomed. Same goes for having regular infills.
If they’re getting to that spidery stage and you don’t want to get infills, then you can get them removed professionally.
Mila Lashes on the Gold Coast says, “You should never attempt to remove your eyelash extensions yourself – it usually leads to pulling out your natural lashes, which can cause permanent loss of your lashes.”
Mila Lashes will remove eyelash extensions for just $30 – or free if you originally got them done at Mila.
Love Those Lashes
Getting eyelash extensions is a time consuming and somewhat costly habit but once you get your first set, you’ll be hooked.
The final tip is to find a salon that has great customer service and a long history. That way you’ll know they’re up to date with the latest trends and will advise you on the right lashes to suit your style.
Once you’ve done your homework and found the right salon. You’ll be ready to go and get lashed!