The Dirty Truth: Serums VS Lash Extensions

The Dirty Truth: Serums VS Lash Extensions

What are Lash Serums?

Lash serums have come a long way in recent years. With many people post-covid embracing their natural lashes, lash serums have stepped up to the challenge of rehabilitating extension-less lashes.

Lash serums contain growth enhancing formulas that stimulate the lash at the catagen and telogen stages which encourages them to continue their growth cycle rather than falling out. Remember, lash babes, the average person loses about 2-5 lashes daily, so a serum is targeted to prevent that fallout. Serums are not to be confused with lash conditioners, however. Lash conditioners are meant to work in tandem with serums for optimal results, so make sure you read the label before picking up one without the other.

Lash serums are usually formulated with chemicals meant to enhance hair growth similarly to hair masks and other hair growth enhancing products. Biotin is a common hair growth vitamin that contains vitamin B, an active ingredient said to strengthen the keratin bonds in your hair. Keratin is the protein that makes up hair follicles, so a stronger keratin bond means stronger lashes that will grow longer before shedding.


Are Serums Safe?

The short answer is: Yes, they are safe.

Currently, Latisse is the only FDA approved lash serum on the market. With that said, Latisse requires a prescription to use. There are over the counter options available, but results aren’t always guaranteed, so there is a little risk that you won’t be getting the bang for your buck. Not only that, but results for most of these serums can take up to 12 weeks or more, and we don’t know about you, but we just don’t have that kind of patience.

Lash serums are best suited for those who excel in patience, or for those of you who have clients with weaker lashes that need a little extra TLC before they can stand up to extensions.


I Want Instant Results!

We hear you! Serums are a commitment and an added step into your daily routine. A lot of us just don’t have the time to add in a lash serum to a full skin care regimen. Luckily for you, we have an alternative that not only guarantees density and length, but delivers results in about two hours!


Lash Extensions

Lash extensions are by far one of the most popular cosmetic procedures out there for your lashes, and contrary to popular belief, they can even encourage healthy lash growth when applied by a properly trained professional. Because you need to take better care of your extensions by cleansing them daily and brushing them out, your natural lashes will definitely benefit from the extra TLC.

A classic set is a 1:1 ratio of extension applied to natural lash. This set delivers mostly on length and depending on your lash health and type of extension your artist is applying, can add the illusion of a fuller lash line.

volume set is a handmade lash fan (usually containing between 2-5 lashes a fan) is applied to 1 natural lash. Volume sets are perfect for clients seeking a fuller lash line and length. This technique can be manipulated to look wispier or more dramatic - it’s completely customizable depending on your lifestyle and lash goals!

Mega volumes are volume sets with glam and drama! These are not for the faint of heart or the client who likes a more natural lash look. Mega volumes are for your client who loves a thick lash line and can pull off this dramatic look daily. 

Lash extensions require no prescription and require a fill every 3-4 weeks to maintain. In terms of instant gratification, extensions have us falling in love and feeling beautiful every time! Best part is there is minimal effort on the clients' part - just follow aftercare instructions and book your fills! Not to mention the time saved on your daily makeup routine is instantly cut in half. Who doesn’t want to wake up with perfect lashes every morning?

A bonus? You can still use a little growth serum on your lash line to encourage stronger lashes. Maybe your lashes are not the strongest and a classic set is all your lashes can handle, but you really want that volume look. Apply your favourite serum to your lash line daily to strengthen those keratin bonds. It’s easier to wait the 12 weeks for results when you already have full beautiful lashes! 

The Takeaway

Lash serums are a modern marvel, but if this were a boxing match, extensions would definitely take home the prize in our eyes. Not only do lash extensions protect your natural lashes, but you instantly have fuller and longer lashes guaranteed after your appointment. So really, it’s the best of both worlds, and if that’s not enough, you can still apply a serum with extensions on to strengthen your natural lashes.



 

Sources 

https://www.byrdie.com/lash-growth-serum

https://lashproacademy.com/

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