With mascara often touted as a "desert island" product, lashes have become a real statement. Defining the eyelashes is a quick, easy way to look groomed and to open up the eyes. Modern options like extensions and lash growth serums have given us more permanent options to create long, thick eyelashes. But which option is best?

MASCARA

Mascara is undoubtedly the most popular way women enhance their eyelashes. With a huge range of colours and formulas available, we can achieve instant length, volume, and curl.

Replace your mascara every three months. Mascara can dry up quickly, and also harbour bacteria.
Wiggle your mascara up in a zig-zag motion from the base of your lashes for full application and separation. Apply a second coat while the first one is still wet.
If you get mascara on your skin, let it dry completely before buffing off with a cotton bud.
If you would like mascara on your lower lashes, apply first to avoid mascara smudges on your upper eyelids.
Thorough mascara removal is essential for lash health. Always remove all traces of mascara with an oil-based makeup remover or make-up wipes.

FALSE EYELASHES

For extra "wow" factor, add falsies. Glue on false lashes will give you the extra length and volume that mascara can't.

Most false eyelashes need to be cut lengthways to fit the lash line. Hold the lash over your lash line to check how much needs to be trimmed. Lashes that are too long at the edges will make the eyes look droopy.
Apply all of your makeup prior to lash application, including eyeliner and mascara.
When it comes to glue, less is more. A very fine line along the false lash will be ample for adhesion. Allow the glue to slightly dry for ten seconds or so before placing it on the eye.
Using tweezers, gently press the lash down along the lash line, starting at the middle and working out to the corners. Hold the corners down gently while the glue sets to avoid lifting.
If you're having trouble, consider a lesson with a make-up artist who can coach you through the process.

EYELASH EXTENSIONS

For a more permanent option, consider eyelash extensions. Individual lash extensions are glued on to individual natural lashes by a beauty therapist, for an incredible natural result. This salon service is growing in popularity, and can be used in conjunction with lash growth serums (see below).

Choose a reputable salon. The application process requires an experienced, skilled technician.
Avoid using mascara on your extensions, and keep eyeliner to a minimum. Removal of eye makeup can loosen the bonds of the glue, and cause lashes to fall out prematurely.
Gently wash your lashes daily after the first 24 hours. This will keep them free of debris and clean.
Comb through your lashes with a clean mascara wand daily to separate them.
Return to your beauty therapist every two to three weeks for maintenance. Loose lashes will be removed, and new lashes applied where necessary.
If you would like to remove all of your eyelash extensions, go back to the salon to avoid lash breakage.
Use a lash growth serum like Lilash to keep your natural lashes strong during extension wear.

EYELASH GROWTH SERUMS

Lash growth serums have gained popularity in the last few years, and offer beautiful, natural results. Daily application is required for four to six weeks, then twice weekly usage will maintain your results. Prices vary, and products can be purchased from pharmacies, beauty salons, and appearance medicine practices. Reputable brands include Latisse, LiLash, and Revitalash.

Precise application is essential. Lash serums are brushed along the base of the lashes with a tiny applicator brush. Excess product can get in the eyes, and in a small amount of cases can darken eye colour.
Be patient. Expect visible results within four to six weeks.
Invest in a great mascara to further enhance lashes.
Eyelash extension wearers will really benefit from using a lash growth serum. This will strengthen the natural lashes and prevent breakage.
LiLash also do a product called LiBrow which is excellent for sparse or patchy eye brows.

Lash love.

Beauty Guru