For strong & healthy lashes

Here's how you can keep your lashes healthy and strong...

Don’t we all desire to have long, fluttering eyelashes? With eyes being the central feature of our face, it is essential that every part of the eye be carefully groomed. Whether it’s the brows, the eyelids, lashes or even the delicate skin under our eyes, we need to care for each of these elements. While everyone tends to look after every part of the eye, lash care always tends to take a backseat. Let’s look at how we can keep those lashes looking healthy and beautiful at all times. When it comes to beauty, nothing beats naturally healthy lashes. Here’s how you can go about it:

* Natural lashes need to be maintained daily. For beautiful lashes, cleansing and removal of mascara and eye make-up are imperative. Use good quality (and preferably natural) make-up remover every night before going to bed.

* Brushing your lashes twice a day with a clean, mascara-free wand helps stimulate growth and promote healthy lashes.

* Like your skin, your lashes need moisturising, too. Castor oil and olive oil protect, condition and lengthen eyelashes. Apply these oils with the help of a clean, mascara-free wand.

* Eating healthy is another vital contributing factor — try and eat fruits and vegetables that are high in Vitamin D, C and E.

* Mascara is great when you want that fresh and bold look when you’re going out — but it’s also very important to take a break from mascara once in a while to help your natural lashes breathe.

* Use the lash curler correctly. Pressing too hard can often result in loss of lashes from the root.

* Although natural lashes are great, using lash enhancements in the right way can give you the perfect flutter. The two most popular enhancements are lash lifts and lash extensions.

* A lash lift is like a perm for your lashes. With the help of professional serums, it curls your natural lashes to open upwards, and lasts for up to two weeks. This cosmetic procedure is most suited for clients with naturally long lashes who desire that upward curl.

* Eyelash extensions help increase the density, volume, length and curve of your natural lashes. In this treatment, individual lashes are glued on to the eyelid to create tailored looks as per your preference. These lashes are made of silk and mink, and create a natural look in an almost clinical fashion.

Even enhancements need to be cared for to maintain the perfect look. Here are some tips for lash enhancement care:

* The first 24-48 hours are critical. Do not apply any liquids or get extensions wet after application. It will cause the lashes to stick together and look like caked-on mascara as the adhesive reactivates.

* Avoid extensive workouts, steam and sauna rooms or hot yoga.

* Resist the urge to pull, pick, tug, twist or excessively touch or brush the extensions, it could damage your natural lashes. If you would like to have them removed, visit a professional who will remove it for you the right way.

* Be careful while using a moisturiser. Do not allow moisture-rich products to get onto the lashes.

* Do not let your shampoo, conditioner or hair pack wash over your lash enhancements, as this will eventually loosen the bond. Tilt your head back while washing your hair or take a bath to avoid getting them completely wet.

* Reshape the extensions after your shower. Gently comb your lashes to fan them out or use a blow dryer set on ‘cool’ to fan them back in place.

(The author is founder, Get Gorgeous Beauty Bar, Bengaluru)