I blame Cheryl Cole.

It seems the humble mascara isn’t enough for us any more. The amazing growth in popularity of eyelashes in the past few years means that no makeup application is complete without the addition of a set of false eyelashes to finish off the party look. The availability of high quality false lashes on the high street (from Mac to Ardell) has given all of us access to a beauty trick previously the preserve of make-up artists and those lucky enough to avail of their services.

The latest development in our love affair with false lashes is the growth of lash bars and lash specialists around the country who are now offering semi-permanent eyelash extensions that promise to last up to six weeks.  One such specialist is Elaine McParland of Up to my Eyes in Greystones, who I paid a visit to a couple of weeks ago for a Xen Tan, and who has customers travelling from all over Ireland to have her add flutter to their peepers. As well as adding glamour to your look, lash extensions can also be a godsend for anyone who has very fine eyelashes, including older women or anyone who has suffered from hair loss.

Up to my Eyes is located in a spacious studio beside Elaine’s home in Greystones, a very relaxing and welcoming space, with amazing ‘before and after’ photos on the walls of clients who’ve had lash extensions. First, I filled out a questionnaire designed to assess my eye sensitivity and what type of effect I wanted to go for. Elaine explained the different types of lashes available – there’s a mind-boggling selection of lengths, finishes, colours and curl types, and three strengths of glue for different levels of eye sensitivity. I had been a bit nervous, but I knew I was in good hands, as this is clearly a lady who is passionate about lashes and really knows her stuff.

(more…)