Eyelash Extensions
It’s not that I needed eyelash extensions. It’s that when Amy Presson of Jett Makeup practically swatted me with hers, I had to have some, too.
A local makeup artist and certified Lavish Lashes professional, Presson makes a living giving women the ultimate beauty mark: endlessly long, incredibly lush, and perfectly curled lashes. Compared to false eyelashes, which are temporary, and prescription lash-growth serums, which have potentially irritating side effects, eyelash extensions are a high-drama, low-maintenance option for anyone seeking a dark, fluttery fringe.
Presson travels to clients’ homes to apply the extensions, bringing with her the trappings of a spa. While I lay on a heated, pillow-topped table, a soothing mask under my eyes, she attaches black synthetic threads to my upper lashes only using tweezers and an adhesive. It’s a tedious process for Presson, who individually applies about 50 extensions to each eye over the next two hours. For me, however, it’s painless and the perfect excuse to take a nap.
My new lashes look like something out of a mascara ad: long, thick, and a little bit fake. I love that they are completely weightless and require zero curling or mascara. All the extensions need is a quick comb-through each morning and—bam!—I’m channeling Brigitte Bardot.
With proper care (no oil-based products, eye-rubbing, etc.) the extensions will last four to eight weeks. Then they fall out along with your natural lashes, which are constantly re-growing. Presson likes to replace lost lashes with new extensions on a monthly basis, to keep them looking full.
To my surprise, I become somewhat, um, attached to my extensions. They make me look instantly more awake—and glamorous. If money were no object, I wouldn’t bat an eye at keeping them around for good.
What: Eyelash Extensions
Where: On-site throughout metro, 651-373-1702, jettmakeup.com
Time: 2 hours for initial set; 1 hour for fills
Price: $250 for initial set; $100 for fills
Beauty Bag
THE EXPERT: Rhonda Jackson, the makeup artist behind many of the Cities’ most beautiful brides, shares her tricks for creating the perfect red pout.
PREP & PRIME: “Red lipstick magnifies flaws, so it’s important to care for your lips.” Jackson swears by the Embryolisse skincare line. Buff lips with the Exfoliating Cream ($30), moisturize with the Vitamin Cream ($37), and top with the Lips Protection Stick ($12).
LAYERED EFFECT: Line lips with a waterproof pencil, like Make Up For Ever Aqua Lips in 8C ($17), then use a lip brush to apply lipstick so the color stays put. Jackson’s favorite shade: NVEY Eco Organic Lipstick #369 ($28).
EASY DOES IT: If you’re not confident enough to wear red lipstick, try a sheer gloss. “Becca Glossy Lip Tint in Cherry Bomb ($23) is a very versatile shade, great for the office or daytime.”
To book Jackson for an event, visit rhondajacksonbeauty.com.
Brazilian Blowout
Contrary to what the name implies, a Brazilian Blowout is for the hair on your head. If it happens to be curly, coarse, or chemically treated, then this new deep-conditioning treatment might be for you. The vegetable-based keratin solution adds shine, eliminates frizz, and cuts styling time in half—for up to three months. From $250 at the Hair District, 3725 Grand Way, St. Louis Park, 952-929-6900
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