Eyelash extensions have taken the beauty world by storm, promising that perfectly fluttery, voluminous lash look without the hassle of mascara. From enhancing beauty and boosting confidence to offering a fuss-free morning routine, it’s no surprise why they’ve become a staple in the beauty regimen of many. But are they really worth the investment? With salon lash extensions on one side and DIY lash kits on the other, it’s easy to get confused about which option gives you the best bang for your buck.
In this blog, we’ll dive into whether eyelash extensions are worth it by weighing the pros and cons of salon lash extensions versus DIY lash kits. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of which option suits your needs—and wallet.
Is It a Good Idea to Get Lash Extensions?
Getting lash extensions has some undeniable appeal, and for many, it’s about more than just lashes. Let’s start with the benefits that make them such a tempting choice.
One of the biggest draws is the instant beauty boost. Imagine waking up each morning with perfectly curled, voluminous lashes without even lifting a finger. No more fighting with mascara wands, false lashes, or lash curlers. The best eyelash extensions give you that effortless “I woke up like this” look that many dream of, offering a major confidence boost as you step out the door.
Another huge perk is the time it saves in your daily makeup routine. If you’ve ever found yourself spending too long trying to perfect your lashes or feeling like your eye makeup just isn’t complete without a bold lash line, extensions are a game-changer. With them, you can roll out of bed, skip the mascara, and still look effortlessly polished—morning, noon, and night. For many busy individuals, that kind of convenience is priceless.
But of course, whether or not eyelash extensions are worth it depends on the approach you take—are you thinking of hitting the salon, or maybe going the DIY route?
The Pros of Salon Lash Extensions
Professional Application
When you go to a salon for lash extensions, you’re paying for the expertise. A licensed lash stylist or technician is trained to apply extensions with precision and care, ensuring a flawless finish that perfectly complements your eye shape and desired look. They can customize the application based on whether you have a monolid or double lid, making sure the lashes enhance your natural features beautifully. If you want that “wow” factor, nothing quite beats the precision of a professional. With salon lash extensions, you walk in with bare lashes and leave with a set of lush, voluminous lashes that turn heads. It’s the ultimate beauty transformation in just one appointment.
Immediate Results
There’s no waiting around with salon lash extensions. The results are instant. Once your appointment is over, you walk out with your lash game completely transformed. No drying time, no learning curve—just bold, beautiful lashes from the get-go. For special events or a night out, salon lash extensions can give you that immediate glam factor.
The Cons of Salon Lash Extensions
High Costs
While the results can be impressive, the price tag of salon lash extensions can be daunting. A full set of extensions can range anywhere from $150 to $300, depending on where you go. That’s not including the cost of regular fills, which you’ll need every 2-4 weeks to maintain that fresh lash look. Over time, those costs really start to add up, making salon extensions a significant investment.
Time-Consuming
Beyond the cost, salon lash extensions can also be quite the time commitment. A full set application can take up to two hours, and fill appointments, though shorter, still require regular visits every few weeks. If your schedule’s already jam-packed, adding bi-weekly lash appointments to the mix can feel like a hassle.
Potential Damage
There’s also the risk of damage to your natural lashes. Although a lash stylist or esthetician are trained professionals, improper care post-application or allergic reactions to the adhesive used can cause your natural lashes to weaken or fall out. In some cases, regular use of lash extensions can result in thinner or damaged lashes over time, leaving some people wondering if the glam factor is worth the potential long-term damage.
DIY Lash Extensions - A Cost-Effective Alternative
If the idea of shelling out hundreds of dollars for salon eyelash extension services isn’t quite sitting right with you, there’s an alternative worth considering: DIY lash extensions. With advancements in at-home lash extension kits, many people are opting for the DIY route to save both money and time—without sacrificing that fabulous lash look.
Affordability
One of the most appealing aspects of DIY lash extensions is the cost savings. While a single trip to the salon can leave you hundreds of dollars lighter, a DIY eyelash extensions kit, like Lashify’s Control Kit, is a one-time investment. Plus, many kits offer reusable lash clusters or Gossamers, meaning you can extend the life of your lashes without constantly paying for touch-ups. In the long run, DIY lash extensions can save you a substantial amount of money compared to salon visits.
Reusability
Speaking of reusability, one of the perks of DIY lash kits is that many of them come with reusable lash clusters or strips. With proper care, you can use them multiple times, stretching your dollar further. Instead of paying for a whole new set of lashes each time, you simply reapply the same lashes, saving time and money.
Convenience
Let’s not forget the convenience factor. No more scheduling salon lash extension appointments weeks in advance or sitting in a chair for hours at a time. With DIY lash extensions, you can apply them at home whenever it fits into your schedule. Whether you’re getting ready for a night out or want a glam look for a special occasion, DIY kits give you total control over when and where you apply your lashes.
The Pros of DIY Lash Extensions
Cost Savings
When it comes to affordability, DIY lash extensions are a game-changer. While salon visits require constant spending for touch-ups, a DIY lash extension kit is a one-time purchase with reusable components. Over time, this saves a significant amount of money, especially when you consider the cost of bi-weekly salon fills. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly approach to fabulous lashes, DIY is the way to go.
Ease of Use
DIY lash kits have come a long way in terms of ease of use. Modern kits, like those from Lashify, come with detailed, user-friendly instructions that make application simple, even for beginners. You don’t need to be a beauty expert to achieve a professional look at home. The best part? If you mess up, you can start over without the pressure of a ticking salon appointment clock.
Customization
Another pro of DIY lash extensions is the freedom to experiment with different styles, lengths, and thicknesses to find the perfect look for you. Want a natural daytime look for work but a dramatic, voluminous set for the weekend? With DIY, you can swap out the lash cluster easily, giving you total customization without the additional costs that come with changing styles at the salon.
Minimal Risk
With the right kit and proper care, the risk of damaging your natural eyelashes with DIY extensions is lower compared to salon applications. Because you’re applying them yourself, you can control the pressure and placement of the lashes, reducing the chance of mistakes or damage. Plus, with less frequent use of harsh adhesives or salon-grade products, your existing lashes get a bit of a break.
Become A Lash Pro Today
It's clear that while salon-types of lash extensions can offer that instant glam, they come with hefty price tags, time commitments, and potential risks to your natural lashes. On the other hand, DIY lash extension kits have emerged as a game-changing alternative. They’re affordable, convenient, and put the power of customization right at your fingertips. With DIY lash kits, you get to enjoy lush, voluminous eyelashes without the recurring costs or scheduling hassles of salon visits.
Why not take beauty into your own hands? Becoming your own lash pro means you can switch up styles whenever you please, all while keeping your wallet happy. The ease of use and reusability of these kits make achieving that professional look not just attainable but downright simple.