Beauty Tips

Have you ever dreamed about having long, dark, enviable eye lashes without mascara? Well, dream no more, because it’s possible to flaunt major fringe with little to no effort. Sure, extensions are great, but if you’re looking for a more natural look that can withstand the beach, the gym and everywhere in between, read on for my eyelash beauty tips!

Lash growth stimulators
The lash arena is one of the fastest growing areas of the beauty biz, and while the first lash-stimulating products were on the pricy side, now there are options to fit every budget. I’ve tried a bunch of these products, and I’m here to tell you THEY WORK. Just commit to applying every night before bed for about 2 months (and stick with it to maintain results) and you’ll see a big difference. I’m talking longer, thicker, darker lashes. Before my wedding, I used Jan Marini’s first lash-enhancing product — it’s since been reformulated as Marini Lash ($160, skincarerx.com) — and I actually had to stop using it because my lashes got so long they were hitting my sunglasses. Since then, I’ve tried B. Kamins Eyelash Fortifier ($90, dermstore.com), and that delivered noticeably thicker and longer lashes. Now I’m using Revitalash ($120, drugstore.com). It’s been about three weeks and I’m already seeing increased length and thickness. Next up in my lash lineup is RapidLash, and I’m most excited about this one because it’s only $49.95 and it’s available at drugstores nationwide. That means when I run out, I won’t hesitate to go out and buy more!

Believe it or not, there has been some controversy surrounding these products, or more specifically an active ingredient responsible for lash growth. This has led to the reformulation of a few of the first products to hit the market (and some lawsuits) and the introduction of the first and only FDA-approved lash stimulator to be available by prescription, Latisse. Approved for the treatment of hypotrichosis, or “inadequate eyelashes” (and endorsed by Brooke Shields), Latisse will set you back $120 for a two-month supply. To find a doctor near you, visit latisse.com

Lash tinting
For you fair-skinned ladies looking for a long-lasting solution for too-light lashes, you may want to consider lash tinting. Unlike coloring your hair, lash tinting uses vegetable dye and takes only 10 to 15 minutes, leaving you with dark lashes that last for four to six weeks. Do not, I repeat, do not try this at home, and seek out a reputable aesthetician or salon when considering this treatment. About $20

Lash perming
If you’re happy with the length of your lashes, but are looking to ditch your eyelash curler, a lash perm may be the treatment for you. I tried this about five years ago, and I won’t lie, it’s not the most comfortable 30 to 45 minutes you’ll ever spend. But, with that said, the results are amazing. The procedure entails affixing your lashes to a little rod before perming solution is applied. You have to make sure you keep your eyes closed the whole time to avoid stinging. Once the solution is neutralized, the rods are removed and you’re on your way. As with lash tinting, do a little homework before booking an appointment and make sure the salon or spa you choose performs this treatment often. About $50

Do you have an eyelash or beauty tip? Let us know in the comments section!