What to Know Before Getting Lash Extensions (and How to Make Them Last)

Experts weigh in on lash extensions cost, maintenance, and daily care.

Akacin Phonsawat/Getty Images

In the same way that getting hair extensions elongates and thickens your existing mane, lash extensions provide more oomph to your lash line via volume, length, and curl. Consider them a sort of “high maintenance to be low maintenance” treatment that cuts down on your daily routine and ensures you wake up feeling pretty (even if you didn’t get great sleep). Not sure if this beauty splurge is for you? We’re covering everything you need to know about getting lash extensions, including cost, ongoing maintenance, and daily care tips to help lengthen their life.

The cost of eyelash extensions depends on a few key factors, including where you live, the type of lashes used, and the salon/technician’s individual pricing. (Lash artists in high demand typically charge more, but there’s a reason why!)

“On average, a full set of eyelash extensions can range from $100 to $300 or more,” says cosmetologist Amanda Pichardo. “Fill—or touch-up appointments— generally cost less, ranging from $50 to $150.”

Budget about two hours for your first lash extension appointment. Once you’re laying on either a table or in a reclining chair, the technician will begin by gently cleaning your lashes to remove any makeup residue, debris, and oil. From there, they’ll use a special, eye-safe glue to apply individual lashes one by one to your upper lash line.

Your eyes will be closed for the duration of the appointment as the technician works their magic, so try to relax and get as comfy as possible. It can feel a little strange, but after a while the repetition gets familiar. Once you’re finished, you’ll have an entire set of fluttering lashes. Ideally, you get to choose the length, thickness, and curl depending on the look you’re going for.

On average, Pichardo says lash extensions last about four to six weeks depending on your growth cycle, natural sebum production, and how well you care for the lashes.

“As your natural lashes shed, the extensions will also fall out gradually,” Pichardo explains. She adds that oil, makeup, and excessive eye rubbing can also dissolve the glue, which causes the lash extensions to fall out more quickly.

If you want to maintain the results, Pichardo recommends heading back for light touch-ups every two to three weeks. At these appointments, your lash artist will replace any lost extensions to help keep your lashes looking full and fierce.

Yes, you can still wear your makeup with lash extensions. However, you’ll want to make a few adjustments to your typical routine to keep your new set in tip-top shape. Pichardo recommends steering clear of all mascaras (which you wouldn’t need anyway) since they can be tricky to remove and may break down the lash glue. Also avoid any eye makeup that’s water or oil-based, as both can degrade your lash glue more quickly, as well.

Along with the above makeup advice, there are a few additional maintenance tips you’ll want to follow in order to make your lash extensions last between salon visits.