What Every Newbie Should Know About Mink Eyelash Extensions

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Welcome to Esther Tested, where surfer and Racked SF associate editor Esther Hahn shares her best tips for fitness and beauty in the Bay.

There isn't a make-up wearing girl in the world who isn't curious about eyelash extensions. I had always wanted to try them, but with so much time spent surfing in the ocean, I never took the plunge—that is, until last week. The recent rainy weather had my feet on solid ground for the foreseeable future, and I used it as an opportunity to step into Social Beauty Co. in the Marina for a full set of mink and synthetic lashes ($180-$200, though mine were comped). After 90 minutes on beauty specialist Lena Mishenko's chair, I emerged from the salon with longer, fuller lashes that instantaneously upped my glam factor. Even without a stitch of makeup, I looked more polished and actually felt my self-confidence rise. But the application is just the beginning of the journey with these lashes. The daily care and maintenance is a whole different story.

On my way out the door, Lena advised me to never fully submerge my lashes in water, including during showers. She also told me to brush out my lashes a few times per day with a lash brush and to apply one of Social Beauty Co.'s products to keep the glue tight and the lashes healthy. I figured this all wouldn't be a problem until I attempted my first shower with the lashes and couldn't avoid the water running down my face and onto my eyes. My new lashes did survive that shower (and the subsequent ones after that), but I wouldn't want to subject them to the ocean and long surf sessions.

The eyelash extensions grow out with the natural lashes, and Lena normally recommends that her clients come in for touch ups about twice a month ($68-$78 per touch up on that schedule). Social Beauty Co. also asks that clients come in without any makeup ahead of an eyelash treatment. The process may sound cumbersome and demanding, but the reward is in the freedom to run out the door without makeup while looking as though I spent hours at my vanity. My eyelash extensions also add that extra dose of glam for my upcoming holiday parties. Ultimately, I plan to pay to keep them up— at least until my next big surf adventure. Ready to give these semi-permanent, luscious lashes a try? Then book your appointment here or call the salon for special time requests.
· Social Beauty Co. [Official Site]
· The Surprising Truth About Folks Who Splurge on Mink Eyelashes [Racked SF]
· Esther Tested [Racked SF]