Up To My Eyes – Eyelash Extensions

By Sarah Jane Langan

Lash extensions are big business these days with celebrities, brides & holiday goers alike thanks to the freedom they provide after application. The process involved in creating the finished effect is certainly an intricate one and can take up to 2 hours on the first application, and an hour for maintenance sessions. Tiny, single lashes are individually glued onto the root of your own eyelashes to seamlessly mesh together for a fuller, longer result that will last 3-4 weeks, and possibly longer if you follow after care advice to the letter. Recently, I was invited out to specialist salon Up To My Eyes in Greystones to meet owner Elaine McParland and get the full lash extension experience from a true professional.

Elaine trained in the art of lash extensions in Sydney before coming back to Ireland; initially building her client base by working from her home salon before setting up the current business Up To My Eyes in 2008. A light and airy space decorated in shades of pink, the salon is a quiet environment where clients can relax and enjoy the ambience. Preceding any appointment, there is a client consultation; an integral step in determining the personalized finish and look of your lashes. If you’re unsure about what will suit your eye shape and style, Elaine and her staff will be able to recommend and guide you through the options, which range from the choice of either silk or acrylic, to the glue used as well as length, colour & curl of each lash.

During the application, a collegen eye mask is applied to treat and protect the surrounding area. You’ll feel nothing as each lash is intricately grafted on to your own, with the experience being so relaxing in fact that most people can’t help but take the opportunity for a little nap! If you’re not the napping type though, Up To My Eyes also provide some complimentary services including reflexology & Shellac Manicures on site which can be done while you’re having your lashes applied.

As someone who isn’t really into false nails or tan, it was important for me to remain as far away from the Jordan look as possible when it came to getting my lash extensions done, and post application when looking in the mirror, the natural finish was what struck me the most. Longer yes, fuller yes – but not a hint of drag queen to be seen. I was given my after care advice sheet which details how best to look after lash extensions and sent on my merry way, relaxed and ready to start batting my newly acquired bambi lashes at the poor, unsuspecting person opposite me on the Dart home.

Lash extension prices range from €100-€120 for a full application & €40-€50 for maintenance sessions. For more info, check out www.uptomyeyes.ie