Advantages of Eyelash Perming

Eyelash perming is an aesthetic procedure that permanently curls the eyelashes upward. This creates a look of youth and eliminates the need for daily eyelash curling. However, individuals considering the procedure should consider the potential hazards and negative side effects before getting it done.

Time Frame

Eyelash perming takes between 25 to 35 minutes on average, from beginning to end. The esthetician will first apply the perming solution to the eyelashes. Next, the eyelashes are wrapped around a flexible mini-roller to set the curl. Finally, the mini-rollers are removed and the solution is washed off, leaving naturally curled lashes behind. Eyelash perming lasts between two to four months, depending on the individual. The perm generally lasts as long as the eyelashes are there, and a typical cycle for eyelashes is about three months.

Function

Eyelash perming gives eyelashes a permanent upward curled appearance. The purpose is to eliminate the need to curl one's eyelashes on a daily basis.

Benefits

The benefits of eyelash perming is the appearance of rounder, more youthful looking eyes. For women who are experiencing dropping eyelids, curled eyelashes will create a more awake appearance and can make them look younger. For women with extremely straight eyelashes, eyelash perming eliminates the need to use an eyelash curler on a daily basis. Depending on the natural darkness of an individual's eyelashes, perming them can eliminate the need for mascara entirely.

Considerations

Individuals interested in eyelash perming should take a few factors into consideration, including eye sensitivity, cost and potential risks. People with sensitive eyes should exercise extreme caution when considering eyelash perms. The chemicals used are very strong and can cause severe allergic reactions with sensitive skin. Eyelash perming can cost up to $60 per session, and should be done every three months to keep up the desired look. This means that permanently curled lashes can cost up to $240 (plus additional tips) per year to maintain. Many women simply prefer to use a $10 eyelash curler that lasts over a year. Finally, eyelash perming is risky. In severe cases, it has been known to induce blindness. Make sure to seek out reputable beauty salons and spas before booking the procedure.

Warning

Eyelash perming is not an FDA-approved procedure. In fact, the FDA has even issued warnings against eyelash perming due to the possibility of blindness. Besides blindness, eyelash perming can have a more benign--but still negative--side effect: loss of your eyelashes. Eyelash hairs are very delicate and can break easily when the strong perming chemical is applied. Breakage can be as minimal as a few eyelashes or as extreme as losing almost all of one's eyelashes.