It’s no secret that the lash extension craze has officially swept the nation…and our bank accounts. Who doesn’t want to wake up with effortlessly full, fluffy eyelashes? Answer: NO ONE. So, we’re diving in to the endless options of lashes, weighing the pros and cons of professional extensions, to highlighting the best drugstore falsies. Whether you’re ballin’ on a budget or lookin’ to ball out, we’ve got your lash needs on lock!

Eyelash Extensions

Are labor-free lashes really worth the accompanying price tag? We went ahead and did the research for you! A particularly polarizing topic in the beauty community, we’ve outlined the pros and cons of professional eyelash extensions to help you decide: lash it or leave it?  

Pros:

  • Customizable – One size does not fit all! Choosing from various lash textures, such as mink-fiber or ultra-silk, you are completely in control of the length and volume of your lashes.
  • Comfortable – Imagine not having to worry about flaking mascara or sticky lash glue ever again! Alexa, play “A Whole New World.” 
  • Assembly Not Included – No, friend, you don’t have to measure, snip, adhere or outsmart those pesky lash bands at all! Your lash technician does all the work for you, while you get to sit back and relax in the salon chair.

Cons: 

  • Cost – Beauty is a [financial] pain. With sets ranging from $150-$300, lash extensions are definitely an investment. 
  • Time – You’re looking at a 2 hour stint in the chair for a full set application. Keep in mind, you’ll also need to come back for proper lash removal.
  • Upkeep – Our eyes experience more wear and tear than we realize, between makeup application and removal, skincare routines, and even tossing and turning on our pillow at night! Try as we might to keep our lashes in tact, it is recommended to touch up your extensions every 2-3 weeks.


DIY Eyelash Extensions

An award-winning alternative to professional-grade lash extensions, Lashify cuts extension application time down exponentially with its cutting-edge Control Kit. Included in this at-home kit are gossamer lashes, application wands and glue bonds. You can truly BYOLT: Be Your Own Lash Tech! This first of its kind technology has been featured in Glamour, Elle and The Cut, allowing your DIY lashes to last up to 7 days.

Magnetic Eyelashes

In the quest to find hassle-free lash alternatives to extensions and adhesive falsies, we’ve noticed another option emerge: magnetic lashes! Typically, most magnetic lashes are affixed the same way: apply a magnetic-based liner to your lash line, trim the lashes to fit your eye shape, and apply the lash strip atop the liner. 2 steps in 1, done! We are loving the Glamnetic and Lashliner easy-to-use systems.

Drugstore Eyelashes

If you’re wanting the full & feathery lash look for less, look no further than your local drugstore. Yes, you can absolutely snag some high-quality banded lashes, like the 3D Faux Mink 858’s from Ardell, or the KISS Ever Ez Trio Lash individual lashes in a pinch! Don’t let the self-application intimidate you; tossable falsies are budget-friendly game changers and easier to apply than you may think. Pro tip: use a brush on lash adhesive to control the mess!

Natural Eyelash Enhancers

Lash growth and strengthening serums have been on the market for quite some time now, which is a testament to their performance. If you prefer a more natural look, you can still amp up what your mama gave ya with products like Shiseido’s Full Lash Serum. Swipe this magic wand across your lash line (and through your eyebrows) to achieve thicker, fuller and healthier-looking lashes. RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner & Serum is another great option, protecting against breakage and brittleness.