How Much Are Eyelash Extensions?

In the world of beauty, we as consumers and lash artists ourselves are often willing to drop quite a bit of dough on making sure that we look our best. Those of us who aren’t blessed with long natural lashes may want to invest in eyelash extensions to complete our look and make our day-to-day makeup routine easier.

The most frequently asked question about lash extensions revolves around cost: how much are they, and are they worth it? The answer can be a real eye-opener!

We will get into the specifics of different types of lash extensions, the costs involved, and the upkeep required to maintain them.

How Much Do Eyelash Extensions Cost?

Costs can vary greatly depending on a number of factors: where you live, the location of the salon, the experience and skill of the lash artists, etc. In general, though, there is a range that you are likely to see in most salons.

A full set of extensions can cost anywhere from $150 to $300 or more. The good news is that you don’t need to get a full set every time. Routine maintenance fill appointments will run you anywhere from $75 to $150. 

They are a little pricey because there is a lot of work involved. Unlike the fake lashes that come in a strip, lash fibers are glued to the individual lashes with painstaking detail. It truly is the work of well-trained professionals with a high skill level. 

Do Different Types of Extensions Cost More?

If you’re new to the world of eyelash extensions, it’s worth noting that the type of extensions you select can potentially cost more money. This is usually based on the quality of the product though, not the type of extensions. Again, this depends largely on the salon and the lash artists on an individual basis. 

Let’s break down the different types of extensions and look at some of the costs associated with each type. 

Synthetic

Most lash extensions today are actually made of synthetic materials. It may not sound very sexy, but synthetic fibers offer the best benefits for eyelash extensions. It’s a lightweight material, it’s easily manipulated to customize the curl and length, and it’s affordable. 

It’s also the safest option for clients, as most synthetic lashes are latex-free and free of other common allergens. 

Thy sky is the limit when it comes to synthetic lashes because they can truly be created in any style.  

Silk

The term “silk” is somewhat of a misnomer. This would imply that the lash extensions are literally made from the silk of a silkworm, and this is typically not the case.

The word silk refers to the style of the lash extensions: semi-matte in appearance, voluminous, and dramatic. Because these extensions are thicker and have more space between lashes, they will give you a dramatic lash look. These are your classic all the way to mega volume lashes!

Don’t expect to pay any extra for “silk” lashes because they are probably not real silk. If you’re not sure, simply ask your lash tech and they can tell you about the materials that they use. Real silk is made from silkworms and in terms of being vegan or cruelty-free, real silk is neither with multiple studies done in how silkworms are harvested. 

Be sure to educate yourself and ask questions! If your lash artist is unsure, that’s a red flag. These are semipermanent and near your eyes, so a well trained lash artist will be able to tell you exactly what products they are using.

Mink

Mink lash extensions are usually not actually made of real mink fur. Not anymore, anyway. Real mink lashes and faux mink lashes are the two varieties. There are a number of reasons why using real mink lashes is a bad choice.

Most fur products, including lash extensions, come from fur farms. This is also where most of the world's fur, in general, comes from. On these fur farms, animals are kept in cages and isolated from their natural environment, not to mention the treatment of minks on these farms is cruel and inhumane. 

As such, real mink lashes are widely considered outdated and callous, and most lash artists have moved away from using real mink in recent years and opting for faux mink instead.

When most lash technicians say that they are using mink lashes, they are actually referring to faux mink lashes to create a softer look or for creating fans. In fact, they are made from synthetic fibers which are not only safer for humans (less chance of an allergic reaction), but also more humane.   

Mink lashes tend to have a glossy or semi-matte appearance, and a natural look. They are longer, softer, and finer than some other types of lash extensions.

If you encounter a lash tech who is using real mink lashes, they will likely be ridiculously expensive. The cost involved in farming mink fur can drive up the price of the extensions. It’s best to go with a salon that uses faux mink lashes.

How Much Does Maintenance Cost?

Eyelash extensions do require regular maintenance to keep looking their best. Because of this, they are not necessarily everyone’s cup of tea. However, many people find that the upkeep is worth it because they can save so much time daily by not having to curl lashes or apply mascara. 

Check out this breakdown of lash maintenance and what it will ultimately cost.

Cleansing

Like the rest of your face, you will need to cleanse your eyelashes. Some people will simply use a regular eye makeup remover and face cleanser, but our recommendation is to invest in a gentle cleanser that is specifically formulated for lash extensions.

This way, you can be assured that the cleanser you are using won’t undo any of the hard work your lash tech put in! And of course, the hard-earned cash that YOU put in. 

A special cleanser for lash extensions is a bit more expensive than a drugstore cleanser with questionable ingredients, but the extra cost is worth it. You will find that a quality cleanser will run anywhere from $12-$20.

Refills

The most important part of lash extension upkeep is the refill. Getting regular fills is what will keep lashes looking their best. It is also the most expensive part of lash upkeep.

As we mentioned earlier, a fill can cost anywhere from $75 to $150, and you must keep up with the appointments regularly if you want the lashes to keep looking fresh. Exactly how often you will need to do this depends on your own personal eyelash shed cycle, but it can be anywhere from three to four weeks. 

Removal

If you decide that eyelash extensions aren’t for you, it’s okay! They are easily removable. If you are getting a set of extensions removed, the cost is generally around $50. Many salons will waive this fee if you are going to be getting another lash treatment, such as a brand new set or a lash lift. 

Some salons will also waive the fee if you are getting the lashes removed due to an allergic reaction or another health concern. 

Can I Remove My Extensions at Home?

You can remove your lash extensions at home if you are trying to save some money or you’re in a pinch, but it’s not ideal. First off, lash technicians are specially trained to take care of the removal of a full set of lashes, and they will be able to execute this safely. Second, you may be able to save some money, but you might not be happy with the result.

If you absolutely insist on removing your lash extensions on your own, here are a few techniques that some people have found effective:

• Start off by sitting in a steamy spot like a hot shower or steam room. This can start to loosen the lash glue. 
• Use olive oil, castor oil, or coconut oil with a cotton swab or cotton ball.
• Using Vaseline to weaken the adhesive.

Whatever method you use, be as gentle as possible. Too much pulling or picking at the lashes can cause your natural lashes to fall out prematurely, and no one wants that!

Are Lash Extensions Worth It?

So at the end of the day, are lash extensions actually worth it? Well, we say yes for the following reasons:

• Every morning, you will wake up with stunning lashes. It's not necessary to curl them or apply mascara. How satisfying!
• Filling lash extensions takes only a few minutes after the initial session. The majority of fills will take less than 45 minutes.
• Lash extensions can be customized to your liking. You have the option of going for a dramatic look or something more natural.
• The procedure is completely painless and risk-free.
• They just look fantastic! The appearance of eyelash extensions simply cannot be replicated, and the lash length that can be achieved with extensions would be tough to accomplish any other way. 

Lash Extensions Are Worth Every Penny

The bottom line is that eyelash extensions are indeed an investment. But like any investment, they are worth it in the long run. It’s up to each individual to decide whether or not the lashes of their dreams are worth the cost. 

Sources:

Eyelash Extensions Pros and Cons 2020 - What Are Lash Extensions | Cosmopolitan

Eyelash Extensions Pros and Cons: What to Know Before You Get Them | Healthline

Different Types of Eyelash Treatments | Consumer Health Digest

Curious About Eyelash Extensions? Here’s What You Should Know | The New York Times