by Aline Agopian
 
If you are of Middle Eastern descent, chances are you are already blessed with having long full lashes. For those who would love to accentuate theirs on their special day or lack long lashes entirely, a new eye lash trend, very commonly known in Asian cultures, has been gradually taking over. Women of all ages are rolling out of bed with beautiful dark long lashes so we ask "What's their secret?" Lash extensions.
 
This one hour-long procedure is done about once a month. At the first appointment, you are given a "full set" as the technician carefully applies lashes individually, with a special glue. In every follow up appointment the technician "fills" the empty spots that have fallen out. These dark lashes look like fake lashes or lashes with mascara. The only thing with these is that you have to be very careful when removing your makeup or washing your face since the lashes can fall out. Some women experience their own lashes falling out so be picky when choosing a technician. This could be something you do only once like for your wedding day, as they will last throughout your honeymoon too and will be one less thing to carry in your cosmetics bag. If the thought of losing your lashes scares you, another option is wearing fake lashes. 
 
Fake lashes are a great way to make your look extra special on your wedding day. Make sure to choose the correct lashes to accentuate your eye shape. #36's by MAC are a good option for the big day since they are natural but dramatic at the same time. Individual lashes are also a great for looking more natural. It's best to discuss the chosen options with your makeup artist or practice applying them yourself with the following steps:
 

Step 1:
 
Remove the lashes from the packaging and apply them without glue to measure the lashes on your eye. If you think they are too long (not the lashes but the strip) cut a few lashes off at the outer edge and retry in attempt to find a perfect place to set them.

Step 2:
 
Next put a drop of glue on any surface. You can use the plastic packaging that the lashes came in. A good choice for glue is the Huda Beauty’s Waterproof Lash Glue which comes in clear, black and white. Using a toothpick or any other thin applicator, glide a line of glue on the strip of your lashes.

Step 3:
 
The next step is the most important of all; wait about 30 seconds or so for the glue to get tacky. If you just glue them on right away, they won’t stick properly. During your wait, as you gradually get a hang of it, you can use this time to apply glue to the second lash and then go back to the first to apply.

Step 4:
 
Anchor your lashes in the middle of your lash line and set using your fingertips. Be careful not to touch your bottom lashes in order to prevent them from gluing themselves together. Looking down while applying will help with this.
 
Step 5:
 
After you apply them wait for them to dry for about a minute.

Step 6:
 
Repeat on the next eye. Be patient when they are drying and make sure to check them to see if they are falling off in the corners. If you observe that they are coming out in the inner corner, don't panic, this commonly happens. Add a tiny bit of glue again, leaving the area open almost like the lash is hanging off, wait again for it to get tacky and then press on them with your finger or an applicator.
 
They also sell lash applicators if you need help applying. Lash extensions are a tricky process at first and takes practice so don't give up if you mess up on your first try. You can apply a coat of mascara before and after for added drama depending on the style of lashes you have chosen.
 
When removing your lashes be very gentle and pull up instead of peeling them off to avoid damaging your own lashes. Lashes can seem a little heavy at first so make sure to do a trial prior and wear them all day so you don't feel uncomfortable on your wedding day.