JB Lacroix/WireImageHave you ever watched a movie and noticed an actor's eyebrows look totally different on screen than they do in real life? Perhaps it's great film editing or makeup magic? Or maybe you just saw the grand effects of really good eyebrow extensions?
You may have already heard of eyelash extensions—the process in which one synthetic or mink hair is hand-glued to one natural eyelash for a more dramatic effect. Well, now, Cara Delevingne or Lily Collins-status brows are only an appointment away. Some celebs even opt for eyebrow extensions to change their look for specific roles, said Charity Engebretsen, owner of Master Lash by Charity in Santa Monica, Calif.
"Eyebrows are so inherently important for the symmetry of you face," noted the Hollywood pro. "They provide a youthful lift to the eye area (where many of us age first) and correct many over-tweezed, over-waxed and generally thinned out brow lines."
So, what exactly does the luxury service entail? Here's everything you need to know.
Prep for the Appointment: "Come without any eye makeup or eye cream," Charity recommended. "These products can interfere with the adhesive's bond and ultimately the life of the eyebrow extensions. It's also a good idea to let the client's natural eyebrows grow out as much as possible to allow for as much of the extensions to be directly placed hair to hair."
It Takes Patience and Money: A technician glues 200-400 singular strands of hair to either your existing brow hair or skin. "The process usually takes approximately an hour give or take, depending upon the request or needs of the client," said Charity. "The average rates also depend upon the request or needs of the client, but you can expect to spend between $150-$300 nationally."
They Aren't Permanent: "Eyebrow extensions can last between 1-3 weeks with the proper care and maintenance. The best way to care for your extensions is to be as gentle as possible—meaning don't brush through them with too much vigor, avoid using oils around the brow line and keep your shower steam to a minimum. Excessive sweating is also a no-no," the expert noted.
Be Wary of Poor Service: "You may want to watch out for clumpy adhesive, over-layering of extensions and overall improper application," warned the extensions guru. "It's best to make sure to ask for a certified technician with experience."
Removal is Easy: "You can either let them naturally fall off over time, or you can see your technician for a quick removal, in which a safe and gentle solution is used to soak them off within minutes." You can also gently massage tea tree oil to the extensions, take a very hot shower and let the lashes fall right off.
There's also an at-home system available—but considering how long it takes us to draw in our brows every morning, this luxury service may be worth it!