By: Melisa A. Ferriola, CPCP

Welcome to the summer heat!  How’s that mascara holding up?  A bit smudgy?  Time to waterproof your eyes.  Eyelash Extensions are a fantastic alternative and have gained tremendous popularity in the last few years because of their natural look, ease of application, and affordability. With semi-permanent eyelash extensions, eyelashes are made thicker and longer through professional application of a synthetic eyelash that replicates a natural lash.  Extensions are applied one lash at a time with care and precision using special bonding agents for a completely natural look! The result is thicker, longer eyelashes that are safe in the shower, while swimming, sleeping or exercising.

A full set of lashes requires a relaxing 90 to 120 minute session. Partial sets require 60 to 90 minutes. The strong hold adhesive used will give you a long-lasting enhancement without damaging your own lashes. As your natural lash grows, your extension grows with it! Extensions can last up to six weeks depending on the life cycle of your own natural lash.  Other factors, such as your eyelash characteristics, lifestyle and care of your extensions will also affect the longevity of the extensions.  As your natural lash turns over, a new extension is applied to keep your lavish look fresh.  These one hour Refining Applications are recommended every 2 to 3 weeks. Timeframes can vary person to person depending on your custom wants and needs.

Pricing for eyelash extensions varies.  Be sure to compare application method, materials used, amount of time dedicated and technician experience when pricing initial sets and refining applications.  Ask to see the technician’s before and after portfolio.  Some establishments claim to do eyelash extensions when they are actually applying lash flares that are glued to your skin or to several lashes.  Large clumps of glue pull on your skin and can cause irritation. They have a cheap, fake look.  This is not what you want – make sure you know what you are paying for.

On the other hand, don’t be swayed by high priced applications that may not come with experience.  Does the brand of lash matter?  There a few high profile companies that claim superiority in training and quality.  And yes, some training courses are better than others, but it all comes down to the experience, quality, attention to detail and artistic ability of the technician – not the marketing power of a national company.  An experienced technician can apply 80 to 100 lashes per eye in 2 hours – that takes practice and skill!  Check the technician’s portfolio to see what you are getting.

Who would benefit from eyelash extensions???

> The Business Professional, for a polished image;
> The Blushing Bride and bridal party, for a joyful celebration;
> The Mature Retiree, to bring back the lashes of her youth;
> The 20-Something, for a glamorous night on the town;
> The Fitness Enthusiast, for looking great while working hard;
> The Natural Blond, for dark, dramatic lashes.

Whether you are looking for a time-saving, everyday look, lashes for your wedding day, or just a weekend away, Lasting Looks has the professional, perfected technique, applied by a licensed, certified and experienced Eyelash Extension Specialist. Safe and affordable, trust your eyes to Lasting Looks!  www.LastingLooksForYou.com

Profile:
Melisa had a 20 year corporate career, but craved to get back to the beauty industry.  She found permanent cosmetics and the possibilities became endless.  She opened Lasting Looks, a permanent cosmetics studio, lash bar and mini day spa located in Newark, Delaware in 2006.  The Lasting Looks mission starts with the desire to empower women to take charge of their appearance and to put their best image forward.  Melisa lends her talent in skin care and makeup artistry to bring out the very best in her clients.  As owner and operator, Melisa personally ensures that every client receives private, exclusive care.  Her artistic skills and attention to detail show through in every service she provides.

Melisa is a licensed Aesthetician and Certified Permanent Cosmetic Artist.  Lasting Looks is located in downtown Newark on West Park Place.  Melisa resides in Newark, DE with her husband and children.  She can be found at Swift Park in the spring enjoying Piedmont Baseball and Softball.

Testimonials:
Not only is it a relaxing experience, but having hassle-free, long, thick lashes is priceless. Melisa is an expert technician who pays great attention to detail. Her patience and skill have given me a natural, yet enhanced look that makes me feel confident and polished. I love being a client of Melisa’s for many of her services. She is always professional and is a pleasure to do business with.

~ Jen B.

“I have been getting eyelash extensions from Melisa at Lasting Looks for quite a while. I absolutely love waking up ready to go without having to use mascara.  I have had many complements on the length of my lashes, to which I respond, ‘they are the best thing I have ever done for myself and my appearance.”

~ Shirl Lord, BMS Massage

“I was thrilled with my lashes… I decided to have Melisa do my lashes before I went to Puerto Rico in the winter hoping that it would make the care of my makeup easier. Between the permanent makeup and the lashes I was able to add a little blush and lip gloss and I was set for the entire day. I was able to swim, shower, and lay in the sun and my lashes looked great. I was amazed at how long they lasted with the proper care.”

~ P.R.