How Long Does It Take To Get Lashes Done

Ever wondered why some people always seem to have effortlessly glamorous lashes? Lash extensions, lifts, and tints are increasingly popular ways to enhance your natural beauty. But before booking your appointment, a crucial question looms: how long will it actually take to get those dreamy lashes?

Understanding the time commitment is vital for fitting lash appointments into your busy schedule. Whether you're a busy professional, a student juggling classes, or a parent with a million things on your plate, knowing the duration of the procedure helps you plan your day effectively and avoid feeling rushed or stressed. Plus, knowing what to expect can alleviate any pre-appointment anxiety!

How Long Will My Lash Appointment Really Take?

How long does a typical full set of eyelash extensions take?

A full set of eyelash extensions typically takes between 1.5 to 2.5 hours to apply. This timeframe can vary based on several factors, including the lash artist's experience, the type of lashes being applied (classic, hybrid, or volume), and the desired fullness and length.

The initial consultation and preparation also contribute to the overall appointment duration. During the consultation, you'll discuss your desired look with the lash artist, who will assess your natural lashes to determine the appropriate length, thickness, and curl of the extensions. Preparation involves cleansing your natural lashes to remove any makeup or oils and applying under-eye pads to protect your lower lashes. The actual application process involves meticulously attaching individual lash extensions to your natural lashes using a specialized adhesive. The type of lash extensions you choose significantly impacts the application time. Classic lashes, where one extension is applied to one natural lash, generally take the least amount of time. Hybrid lashes, a mix of classic and volume lashes, take a bit longer, and volume lashes, where multiple thinner extensions are fanned out and applied to a single natural lash, require the most time due to the intricate technique involved. The desired fullness also plays a role – a more dramatic, voluminous look will naturally require more extensions and therefore, more time.

Does the type of lash extensions affect the application time?

Yes, the type of lash extensions significantly affects the application time. Different lash styles, materials, and application techniques require varying levels of precision and time investment from the lash technician.

Classic lash extensions, which involve applying one extension to each natural lash, generally take the least amount of time, typically around 1.5 to 2 hours for a full set. Volume lashes, on the other hand, require creating fans of multiple lightweight lashes (usually 2-6) and attaching them to a single natural lash, demanding more skill and significantly increasing the application time to 2 to 3.5 hours. Mega volume lashes, which use even more lashes per fan (7-16), will take even longer, sometimes up to 4 hours. The material of the lash extensions can also influence the application time. While not as dramatic as the style, certain materials like mink may require extra care due to their delicate nature, potentially adding a bit of time. Furthermore, the desired length and thickness of the extensions play a role. Longer and thicker extensions often require more precise placement and can therefore extend the overall application duration. Ultimately, a consultation with the lash technician is crucial to determine the best lash style for your desired look and to accurately estimate the appointment length.

What impacts how long refills take compared to a new set?

Refills take significantly less time than a full new set of eyelash extensions because the lash artist is primarily focused on removing outgrown extensions and replacing them with new ones to maintain the desired fullness and shape, rather than applying extensions to every single viable natural lash.

Several factors contribute to the shorter duration of refill appointments. First, a significant portion of the initial application time is dedicated to mapping the lash line and meticulously isolating and applying extensions to each natural lash. With refills, much of this initial groundwork is already completed. The lash artist can quickly assess the remaining extensions, identify which ones need replacing due to growth or twisting, and efficiently infill the gaps. Furthermore, less adhesive is typically required during refills, streamlining the application process.

The condition of your existing lash extensions and your natural lash health also play a role. If you’ve maintained your lashes well and have minimal fallout or twisting, the refill process will be quicker. Conversely, if you have significant lash loss or the extensions are heavily grown out or tangled, more time will be needed for removal and replacement, potentially extending the refill appointment.

How much longer does it take to remove eyelash extensions?

Eyelash extension removal typically takes between 15 to 30 minutes, which is generally less time than the initial application process that can last from 90 minutes to over 2 hours depending on the desired style and technician's experience.

The difference in time stems from the nature of the procedure. Application involves meticulously attaching individual extensions to each natural lash, requiring precision and patience. Removal, on the other hand, focuses on safely dissolving the adhesive bond between the extension and the natural lash. A specialized remover solution is applied, and after a brief waiting period, the extensions gently slide off. Factors influencing removal time include the type of adhesive used, the volume of extensions applied, and the technician's skill. Some stronger adhesives may require slightly longer to dissolve. It's always best to have a professional remove eyelash extensions to avoid damaging your natural lashes. Trying to remove them yourself can lead to pulling out your natural lashes or causing irritation to the delicate eye area.

Does the lash artist's experience change the appointment length?

Yes, a lash artist's experience level significantly impacts appointment length. More experienced artists generally work faster and more efficiently while maintaining quality, resulting in shorter appointment times compared to less experienced artists who may take longer to ensure proper isolation and application.

Experienced lash artists have typically honed their techniques over hundreds or even thousands of appointments. This translates into smoother, more precise movements, quicker isolation, and an overall faster pace without sacrificing the integrity of the natural lashes or the quality of the lash extensions. They are also better equipped to handle unexpected challenges or difficult lash situations, such as unruly lashes or clients who have difficulty remaining still, which further contributes to efficient time management. Conversely, newer lash artists are still developing their speed and precision. They may spend more time on each lash, perfecting their isolation and application. This is perfectly normal and part of the learning process. However, it does mean that initial appointments with a less experienced artist will likely take longer. Clients opting for appointments with newer artists often benefit from lower prices, but they should factor in the extra time commitment. Over time, with practice, the new lash artist will naturally increase their speed and efficiency.

Why does lash application time vary between salons?

Lash application time varies between salons primarily due to differences in the lash artist's experience and speed, the type of lash extensions being applied (classic, hybrid, volume, or mega volume), the complexity of the desired lash style, and the salon's specific application techniques and protocols.

Several factors contribute to these variations. A more experienced lash artist often develops a faster and more efficient application process while maintaining quality. They've honed their skills, learned shortcuts (without compromising the integrity of the natural lashes), and can quickly isolate and adhere extensions. The type of lash extensions dramatically impacts the time. Classic lashes, involving a 1:1 ratio (one extension per natural lash), are typically the fastest to apply. Volume lashes, which involve creating fans of multiple lightweight extensions and applying them to a single natural lash, are considerably more time-consuming. Mega volume lashes are even denser, requiring even more skill and precision, thus increasing application time. The desired style, such as a dramatic cat-eye or a wispy, natural look, also influences the process, as more complex designs require more time and attention to detail. Furthermore, some salons prioritize meticulous preparation and aftercare education, adding to the overall appointment length. They might spend more time thoroughly cleansing and priming the natural lashes to ensure optimal adhesion and longevity. They also may take extra time at the end to educate clients on proper lash care to prolong the life of the extensions and maintain lash health. Finally, the specific products used and techniques employed can also play a role. Some adhesives dry faster than others, and some application techniques are inherently more efficient.

What can I do to speed up my lash appointment?

To help your lash appointment run smoothly and efficiently, arrive on time with clean lashes (free of makeup and oils), and communicate clearly with your lash technician about your desired look and any sensitivities you may have. Avoiding caffeine beforehand can also help you relax and remain still, which speeds up the application process.

Coming prepared is key to shortening your appointment time. Properly cleaning your lashes before you arrive saves your technician valuable minutes at the beginning. Use a lash-specific cleanser, or a gentle, oil-free cleanser, to remove all traces of makeup, dirt, and natural oils. Avoiding mascara for 24 hours prior is also advisable. Also, be prepared to discuss your desired lash style – the length, curl, and overall fullness you are hoping to achieve. Showing your technician photos of lash sets you admire can be incredibly helpful in conveying your preferences. Finally, remember that your comfort and cooperation directly impact the application speed. Try to relax and avoid excessive movement during the procedure. If you need to adjust your position or have any discomfort, communicate this clearly but calmly to your technician. Minimize talking, unless it’s about your lashes, as this can also lead to faster service.

Hopefully, this gives you a good idea of the time commitment involved in getting lash extensions! Remember, it can vary depending on the style you're after and the experience of your lash artist. Thanks for reading, and we hope you found this helpful! Come back soon for more lash-related tips and tricks!