We’ve written about lash extensions in the past, but it’s time to revisit the topic, and go over the importance of finding a reputable, hygienic salon. With everybody and their dog walker becoming a “certified” lash tech overnight, it’s no wonder that we’re hearing more and more horror stories about eye infections and glued lids. Seriously, if you can’t afford to go to a reputable salon, don’t go at all. Wear falsies, smear your lashes with baby powder and mascara, or suck it up and rock what your mama gave you – this is not the place to be cutting corners.

Take it from somebody who’s had lash extensions for 4 years (this girl!), they should NEVER hurt, your lids should NEVER feel heavy and extensions should NEVER EVER EVER cause your natural lashes to fall out any more rapidly then they normally do. This isn’t one of those beauty equals pain scenarios. If anything feels off, you need to get ‘em removed immediately, whether it’s an allergic reaction or botched job.

After searching far and wide for a lash tech close to home, I’m happy to report that I’ve found a salon that I’ve fallen in love with, right in the heart of Toronto! Pretty in the City offers a myriad of specialized services (like brow shaping, lifts and even semi-permanent brow tattoos) in addition to lash extensions. You can see some of the amazing transformations on their Facebook page!

Founder and eyelash tech extraordinaire, Veronica Tran has been in the business since 2005, and was one of the first to bring the Korean practice to Toronto. She assures me that first and foremost, you need to make sure your tech follows strong hygiene and sanitation protocols. How are the lashes stored? How clean is the work area? What’s in the bonding agent? If anything seems dicey, ask questions or leave. We’re talking about your eyeballs here people, it’s no time to be shy.

Equally important, put in the time! Do your research, talk to your girlfriends and figure out what the red flags are. According to Veronica, here’s what you need to be wary of:

  1. Lash tech should never apply extensions without cleaning your lashes first
  2. Salon should never advertise 100 or more lashes in an hour or less
  3. Being able to feel your lashes (this is a big NO NO)
  4. Your lashes going wonky after a few days and not responding to brushing
  5. Being able to see clumps of adhesive on your lash line

Geography aside, what first attracted me to Pretty In The City was the 3D volume technique which Veronica has perfected. It’s less common because of the complexity of application, but the results are va-va-voom! To get the look, fans of 2-6 very fine synthetic lashes, individualy made with tweezers then dipped in adhesive, are applied to each native eyelash creating a little tripod of extra volume. (Sidenote: these lashes are SUPER light, literally the lightest I’ve ever had, which is a nice bonus!)

Without sounding too gushy, it has to be said – Veronica is pretty much the coolest. An inspiring entrepreneur, she’s paved her own path and overcome some pretty nasty obstacles; she’s also a huge foodie who can talk about her favourite restaurants for hours. You could also just snooze through through your appointment, but I totally prefer a side of caviar talk and career tips with my extensions!

CONTEST!

We want to share our best kept secret with one lucky reader who will receive her own full set of Volume lashes (that’s a $250 value, OMG)!

To enter on Twitter, RT:

“Hi @Shedoesthecity and @PrettyCityLash, I would LOVE to win a complimentary pair of lash extensions!”

Good luck!