What does it mean to get lash extensions? Lash extensions are false lashes attached one by one to your individual lashes with surgical grade adhesive for a super low maintenance beauty routine.  No harm is done to your natural lashes, and the extensions shed along with your own lashes.

Let’s talk safety.  The FDA considers eyelash extensions and their adhesives cosmetic products, and requires that manufacturers adhere to the same safety and labeling requirements as other cosmetics (1).  Are lash extensions safe? Yes, with the caveat that you select an artist that’s well versed in safe products and hygienic application. In the event that you experience an adverse reaction to your eyelash extensions or adhesive, or that you contract a bacterial infection from equipment that hasn’t been properly sterilized, contact your ophthalmologist (2).  If your eyes are very sensitive and prone to reaction with other cosmetic products, eyelash extensions may not be for you.

Why Christian? Christian Zamora is a master lash artist with a private studio in New York. His work in the beauty industry has appeared in WWD, Vogue, MORE, New York Magazine, and on major television broadcasts including The Grammy’s and the Tony’s. He is also the exclusive makeup artist for Tiffany & Co New York events (3). His clientele includes celebrities like Katie Holmes, Brooklyn Decker, and Paloma Picasso. Other noteworthy clients include influencer Hannah Bronfman (4).

Christian’s work is meticulous, and his demeanor and professionalism put clients immediately at ease.  I trust him implicitly.  Appointments entail lying still for one to two hours, depending on whether you’re having a complete set or a fill done.  Christian gets to work, doing what feels like fluttering your eyelashes, all the while providing great company and conversation- that is if you’re not lulled to sleep. When he’s finished, you’re met with beautiful, dramatically long lashes.  What’s more, you’ll continue to wake up to said lashes for weeks to come.  Christian’s artful lash application looks so natural that people have stopped me on the street to ask what mascara I use to get such beautiful, long lashes. 

Now for the rules.  After your application, don’t wet your lashes for 24 hours.  If we’re being honest, I have a pair of embarrassing swim googles that I use in the event of a shower less than 24 hours after an appointment.  When it’s time to cleanse your lashes, do so carefully with your face wash. Brush your lashes with an eyelash brush after wetting them to keep them looking their best.  Avoid applying mascara to your eyelash extensions, as the contents of the makeup can erode the adhesive and shorten the lifespan of your extensions.  To maintain your extensions, return for an eyelash fill every 3-4 weeks.

While we’re here, we should discuss cost.  Eyelash extensions are expensive.  A full set from Christian Zamora Studios costs anywhere from 425$ to 550$ depending on your desired look.  A fill to maintain your lashes costs between 150$ and 325$ depending on the state of your lashes. That said, you’re entrusting the health of your eyes with your lash artist.  Now is not the time to reach for a Groupon code.  It’s important to choose an artist that’s well versed in safe products and hygienic application, even if that means paying up.

I never feel so effortlessly beautiful as I do with lash extensions. They are the ideal addition to any low maintenance beauty routine. If it weren’t for the cost, I would never go without them. Do I feel they’re worth the price tag? I do.

Christian is also a make-up artist available for events and weddings, and recently added hairstyling to his business (although he’s long been a talented hairstyling artist).  You’ll find him in his studio, in a beautiful location just north of Madison Square Park in the Flatiron District, and you can book an appointment through his website.