Livid Lash's Covid-19 Response

Livid Lash has been updating its inventory of products not only for industry professionals, but for clients world-wide. At an unprecedented time, our world has been hit with a pandemic that has completed halted the personal service and hair industries. But here at Livid Lash we are natural entrepreneurs and highly-credentialed innovators! Take below is a preview of what we have coming by the end of the month:

Professional Stylists:

• Individual Length Trays
• New Adhesive
• New Lash Cleanser
• Seamless Fan Lash Trays
• Livid Length + Trays
• Shorties
• Just Bottoms
• Contact-Free Delivery and more...

Clients:

• Static Lash
• DIY Gel Nails
• Livid Brows
• Contact-Free Delivery of Products

Workshop Students: 

• Free Training Kits with Thinkific Workshop Purchase
• New Training Book
• Zoom Training

As much as we would love to wish this crisis away, we are leaning on LARA and CDC guidelines as we approach this new normal. Join use May 16, 2020 in a Live Zoom panel discussion about COVID-19, How it Affects the Hair Industry Professionals and Our Clients. (The conversation welcomes both stylists and clients). Stay tuned for more detail...

MICROBLADING BEFORE & AFTER CARE

MICROBLADING: Skin Healing, Before & After Care 

After the initial visit takes place, a second visit is required. Usually done within 4-8 weeks this process is less invasive.

Mild swelling and redness will reduce within an hour of the procedure with no possibility of permanent scarring.

Initially during the healing process, the brows will appear dark and distinct. However, after 7-10 days the pigment will fade and become less defined. After 30 days, the pigment fades about 30-40%. There is no required down time.

Before Care

Avoid plucking or waxing brows. The technician will shape the brows based on measurements taken at the beginning of the procedure. Do not use exfoliators up to 72 hours before appointment. Products containing glycolic acid, Retin-A, or alpha hydroxy acids may cause inflammation of the skin.  DISCONTINUE USE OF DRINKING ALCOHOL, ASPIRIN, BLOOD THINNERS AND RETINOL 1 WEEK BEFORE APPOINTMENT. AVOID SCHEDULING APPOINTMENT DURING THE CLIENT’S MENSTRAL CYCLE.

After Care

Do not wet brows for 7 days. Protect healing brows from ALL FORMS OF MOISTURE whenever possible. Abstain from heavy workouts or aggressive face washing. Gently wash face without touching the brow area. Only clean treated area with alcohol wipes.

Do not rub or pick the treated area. The area may feel itchy during the healing period; it is important NOT TO RUB THE AREA to prevent infection. Picking the treated area is also known to diminish the appearance of the pigment and will cause the brow to appear bald.

Apply grapeseed oil after 7 days of treatment. Other oils that can be used are almond, coconut, or jojoba oils. DO NOT USE PETROLEUM JELLY, as it prevents the skin from healing properly due to its thickness.

Note: Even with proper after care, a client may still experience fading or loss of pigment due to the skin’s natural healing process. This is normal and results may vary depending on the client’s skin regeneration. Client’s results after healing depend solely on how their skin heals and absorption of the pigment. Pigment retention is based on health, age, skin type (pore size, elasticity, thickness etc.), brow keratosis, medications used, and after care. Most clients require a touch up after 30 days.

Once the desired look has been achieved a color enhancement is required after 18-24 months. A touch up may also be required after 12 months for clients who tan, have oily skin, use facial peels or anti-aging products. Chlorine, retinol and peroxide are known to drastically fade the pigment.

INTRO TO MICROBLADING

INTRO TO MICROBLADING

Microblading, also referred to as eyebrow embroidery, feathering, etching, or shading, is a semi-permanent makeup technique that has been gaining popularity worldwide since the early 2000’s. Originally designed to help post-chemotherapy patients, microblading has become one of the most sought-after beauty procedures.  Like tattooing, a small (micro) blade is used to deposit pigment underneath the epidermis.

 The microblade has 7-18 microneedles when applied give the appearance of hair-like strokes.  Unlike a traditional tattoo, the pigment or color is impacted closer to skin’s surface using a microblading pen instead of a tattooing machine.

The microblading method is perfect for anyone who wants to enhance the appearance of their eyebrows. Regardless of the amount of existing natural hair, the hair-like strokes look astoundingly real.

Ideal microblading candidates are people who suffer from trigonometrical, alopecia, other hair-loss disorders or simply for someone who desires to alter the appearance of their natural brows.

Pigments used are totally different from tattoo ink, as they are specifically formulated to match the client’s natural brow color. Certain pigments have different undertones that are complementary to different skin tones.  

The realistic results last 1-3 years and are unapparelled, making microblading the number eyebrow solution.

Livid Lash Supply Co.

Winter 2015 we released our line based on requests that we received from local Lash stylist. We now release new product lines quarterly! Since 2015 we have introduced 3 additions to our line.

Ultra Mink Collection

• B-Curl Mixed, C-Curl Mixed and Individual, D-Curl Mixed and Individual, J-Curl Mixed Lash Extensions.
• Black and Brown Brow Extensions.
• Livid Length Lash Extensions (16mm, 17mm, 18mm).
• Volume Lash Extensions
• Exclusive Released Tray

 Primer, Adhesives, Remover

• Alcohol Free Primer
• Rose Protein Remover
• Gel and Cream Remover
• Ultra Adhesive
• Sensitive Adhesive 
• Clear Eyebrow Adhesive
• Adhesive Freshener (Cucumber Melon)

Vetus Tweezer Collection

• SS-SA VETUS
• ST-12 VETUS
• ST-15 VETUS
• ESD-12 VETUS
• ESD-15 VETUS

Supply Collection

• Gel Eye Pad
• Double-sided Adhesive Rings
• Gentle Paper Tape
• Microfiber Tip Brushes
• Mascara Brushes
• Caboodle Kit Boxes 

Visit Our Web Store at lividlash.com

Email lividlash@gmail.com for special order questions. Text 248-923-1393 for a faster response.

Lash Extension and Lice Rumor:

There has been a picture circulating online that allegedly depicts the effects of Lice on Lash Extensions. It was brought to my attention by one of our loyal clients. We educate our clients, and she already knew, just how false and misleading the picture is. She wanted us to publicly address, debunk and put this rumor to rest!

FALSE!
This Rumor  began with someone selling 3D Fiber Lash Mascara, trying to market their product, by slamming our profession. We have nothing against using ANY kind of mascara, but as for ourselves  and our clients, we wear Lash Extension... that are thoroughly cleaned daily! They are applied with microfiber tip brushes that remove the smallest particles BEFORE they are applied! No one at home is doing that before applying mascara. And you barely can get it off after. Let's debunk this one!

REAL FACTS:
Lice can spread on eyelashes or ANY hair on the body.The rare condition is known as pediculosis ciliari. THERE HAVE BEEN NO REPORTED CASES OF PEDICULOSIS CILIARI RELATED TO WEARING EYELASH EXTENSIONS...EVER!

Oh, and about the pictures above, NONE of those people are wearing eyelash extensions. If you look up the origin of the pictures on Google, you'll also find that the are not related to lash extensions or Pediculosis Ciliari. You all know that one picture is a stye.

Reintroducing Brow Extensions

So, we haven't been blogging recently, but that will change as we introduce new topics, supplies and other tidbits. We've been working extremely hard to bring you the most exclusive products and information. Forgive us for the sebatical, but let's get back to it.

Brow Extensions are the hottest thing! They've been out for awhile, but the reception has been slow. We often get calls from around the country for inquiries, so the demand is there. But EDUCATING the client is the best thing!

We currently hold workshops that show our attendees the process. So what is the process?

We apply one synthetic hair fiber directly to the gaps or desired location on the clients brow, to create a full or more complete look. And the results are truly amazing!

There are tons of options for brow fulfilment, but this service is temporary lasting 1-3 weeks. If you want tattooed brows, this isn't for you. This is for people that need a temporary solution. Excellent for post chemotherapy patients or if someone waxed off your brows!

Take a look at our most recent brow extensions. Feel free to email us about training, supplies or other questions. Stay tuned... we'll be back with more!

Fall Product Review (Sugar Lash Pro, Blink Mink)

As the lash extension industry grows, there are an abundance of product lines to choose from. By releasing product reviews, we hope to make the buying process easier, by giving our opinions on great products. We have not been paid or given free products in exchange for reviews. This fall we will be reviewing Sugar Lash Pro and Blink Mink.

Sugar Lash Pro is a high quality line that features faux mink and silk synthetic product lines. The carry a multitude of things from adhesives, tools, lash extensions, to blueprints for the lash bed upholstery. They carry a variety of colors in lash extensions and the proper diameter sizes for volume lashes. Their products can be directly ordered from their site SugarLashPro.com. We purchase the faux mink bottom lashes and the faux mink 0.07mm C-curl lash extensions.
 The taper and texture of the lashes we perfect! They were delivered on time and we believe this is the best product we've used so far for volume lashes and bottom lashes.

Blink has an excellent line of adhesives and different lash curls and lengths. It can be purchased from its direct site iLashstore.com or from Amazon.com. We purchase the faux mink C-curl lash extensions in 11mm, 13mm, 15mm and 17mm as well as the Blink Plus lash adhesive. The lash extension we also of high quality and the adhesive was quick drying, low fume, and excellent for both traditional and volume lash extensions.

We using any product we are worried if our money was well spent, and in the case of using Blink and Sugar Lash Pro we are OVERLY SATISFIED!

Traditional Vs. Volume (2D, 3D, 4D, 5D) Lash Extensions

The Difference Between Traditional and Volume Lash Extensions

Traditional lash extensions are applied by bonding one lash extension to one natural eyelash and give a natural appearance. Volume lashes are applied by bonding one pre-prepared set of 2-5 eyelash extensions to one natural eyelash and give a more voluminous appearance. The diameter on a traditional lash extension (0.10-0.20mm) is thicker than a volume lash.  The diameter on a volume lash extension (0.05-0.7mm) is much thinner, allowing a healthy weight on the natural eyelash which promotes natural lash growth.

Below is an illustration that explains the weight and diameter of volume lashes:

 



Traditional Lash Extensions

• More cost efficient natural appearance
• Gives natural appearance
• Requires Less application time (1-3 hours)

Volume Lash Extensions

• More expensive
• Gives more voluminous appearance
• Requires more prep and application time (2-4 hours)
• Beneficial to clients who have less natural lashes

 



How to Find Non-Damaging Lash Extensions

When getting any type of enhancement (hair color, hair extensions, even plastic surgery) people worry about possible short or long-term damage. As they should. Lash extensions are one enhancement that when properly applied can be worn for years without ANY damage to the natural lash. When people ask why we don't do cluster lashes, I always reply, "You don't sell Ford Pinto's at a Lamborghini dealership." I don't intent to be condescending, but in essence, you get what you pay for. We REFUSE to offer any service that is damaging. At Livid Lash we don't just pride ourselves on offering the most natural-looking services, but non-damaging services is our focus as well. We ever offer a blog that other service providers and outside clients can use! We want to people to be well informed. When in doubt, ASK!

Livid Lash is dedicated to providing safe, and proper lash services, but some are just looking to jump on the next trend without the proper education. CLIENTS NEED TO EDUCATE THEMSELVES TO ENSURE THAT THE SERVICE THEY GET IS BOTH SAFE AND NON-DAMAGING. Below are some things to look for when choosing to get lash extensions.

What to Look for When Choosing a Lash Service

#1 Thing All Lash Technicians SHOULD Know
Lash Growth Phases: Anagen, Catagen, Telogen.
You can find this out by asking your lash technician about your lash growth cycle and what are the phases. If they took a course, they should know this when explaining how and why natural lashes growth in a certain manner.

Someone who tells the truth about Clusters and Strips.
People call clusters "Individual", but the are not! The adhesive used is heavy and applied to multiple lashes and that's how many are going to come out when you take them off or they fall off. Lashes grow at different times, they need to continue to grow and shed independently. Clusters and strip lashes leave bald spots and traumatize the lash hair follicle. They are cheaper, but nothing is worth having bald eyes. Just save up or purchase a good mascara.

Photos of actual work should be somewhere.
People who take pride in their work showcase it. Photos can be on a website, Facebook, Instagram, even if it's just on their phone. If someone doesn't have pictures, they don't have proof.

Is their work guaranteed?
Most people with decent work guarantee it. If a client is dissatisfied, they will fix it or remove it for free. Or offer a free re-fill if the client is ify about volume. This doesn't mean you get to take advantage of the lash stylish, but they will accommodate reasonable requests or concerns.

Do they have a certification?
Some people can get an online certification. If the lash stylist attended a actual class in person, that's better than just watching a video online. If the stylist spent money to take and attend a class for a certification, they are serious about their work. If they invest in classes to perfect their craft, they most likely take what they do seriously.

Silk Vs. Mink Lash Extensions

There are many types of lash extensions, the most popular are Synthetic Silk Lashes and Mink Lashes. Below we will explore the differences between the two types of lash extensions.

Silk Synthetic Lashes
Made of synthetic fiber
Hold curl when exposed to water
PETA-friendly
More voluminous look comparable to the effect of mascara
Waterproof
Less likely to irritate clients who are allergic to animal fur
Less expensive ($200+)

Kim has the Synthetic Silk (More Voluminous) Jessica has the Real Mink (Less Voluminous)



Mink Lashes

Made of real mink

Won't hold initial lash curl

Less Volumous, more comparable to a natural eyelash in dimension

Not Waterproof

Reports of flakes around the eye (most likely due to allergy to animal fur)

More expensive ($400+)

10 Strangest Lash Extensions

Check out these weird, sick, strange and odd lash extensions! IF YOU WOULD LIKE ANY OF THESE, WE DON'T RECOMMEND THEM ALL , BUT WE WILL DO ANY LASH EXTENSION THAT WILL NOT DAMAGE THE EYE. ALLOW 2-14 DAYS DEPENDING ON REQUEST. WE WILL NOT DO THE FLY LEGS, THOUGH!

1

Dead Flies Legs Eyelashes

 

Artist Jessica Harrison takes dead flies legs and attaches them onto the eye for what she aptly called ‘flylashes.' The inventive looking false eyelashes are sort of on the grosser side of beauty. The crooked and bent lashes are glued onto the eye and are meant to look like luscious eyelashes. (Source)

2

LED Eyelashes

 

Created by Soomi Park, the LED Eyelash project is brought into the world from a simple question: Why do women want larger and bigger eyes? Sometimes, the desire for bigger eyes can become almost obsessive, and many women opt for plastic surgery in order to make their dream come true. Soomi calls this, the fetish of Big Eyes.

LED Eyelash is a clever product that speaks to many women's desire for bigger eyes. It features an inclination sensor with mercury to turn on and/or off. The sensor can perceive the movements of the pupil in the eyes and eyelids. If you wear it and move your head, LED Eyelash will flicker following your movements. It is as simple to use as wearing false eyelashes and as easy to remove as taking off a piece of jewelry. (Source)

3

Diamond Eyelashes

 

In 2006, designer Shu Uemura created these custom diamond eyelashes for Madonna. The custom mink false eyelashes are encrusted with 0.75 carats of stunning diamonds. Uemura sells the lashes for $10,000 at seven different Neiman Marcus stores, but if you are looking to spend "a bit less" than that, you might be interested in Uemura's replica diamond eyelashes which run for $25. (Source)

4

Paper Eyelashes

 

Created by Paperself, these paper eyelashes are inspired by the art of Chinese paper-cutting, blending an element of traditional culture with contemporary design. Intricately cut and delicately pretty, these eyelashes are available in eleven different styles, each infused with symbolic meaning rooted in Chinese culture. (Source)

5

UV Eyelashes

 

Created for the London Edge event in September 2008, these UV-Lashes were designed by Manic Panic N.Y.C., an alternative cosmetic brand founded by sisters Tish and Snooky, singers in the original Blondie line up. (Source)

6

Flag Eyelashes

 

What can be more patriotic than having eyelashes with your country's colors? (Source 1 | Source 2 | Source 3)

7

Feather Eyelashes

 

These eyelashes are made of long untrimmed real feathers, so if your boyfriend says “you make me fly!”, you'll know why. (Source 1 | Source 2 | Source 3)

8

Paper Clip Eyelashes

 

These artificial lashes are inspired by the boring paperclips we often neglect and overlook. The famous duo Viktor & Rolf have created three pairs of this fake extensions. So, after all, paper clips are not so useless when it comes to fashion. (Source)

9

Neo Reflector Eyelashes

 

Shu Uemura Neo Reflector eyelashes are inspired by an architectural approach of future fashion. These elegant, silver coated lashes softly sparkle with moon shape; sequins dimensional design with mirror shine effect for outstanding cyber-chic eyes. (Source)

10

Petals Eyelashes

 

"Nothing is sexier than fun and flirty lashes and this month I will demonstrate the art of faking it. For my lash story I wanted to do something unique using sunflower petals as lashes" said Troy Jensen, the creator of these petal eyelashes. He created this fake eyelashes for a photoshoot in 2010. In his blog, he wrote the steps he followed for making the petal eyelashes and also how he prepared the model. (Source)

SOURCE: ODDEE.COM

Natural Lash Knowlege

Anatomical Function of Eyelashes

The upper eyelid has about 90-150 eyelashes and the lower lid has 70-80. Eyelashes are attached to nerve sensors that trigger the eyelid to close upon contact with small particles. The aesthetic function of the eyelash is simply to frame the eyes as they filter foreign objects and protect the actual eye.

Know How Eyelashes Grow

Eyelash hair is like all hair on the body. Lash texture and growth cycle patterns are genetic. Each hair follicle grows several hairs throughout a lifetime. There are three growth phases in the eyelash growth cycle, anagen, catagen and telogen. Each phase is staggered, preventing periods of eyelash baldness when the lash cycle stops.

Eyelash Growth Cycle Phases

• Anagen- This growth phase typically is active between a 30-45 day period and vary according to genetics. The length of one's anagen phase dictates the length of their eyelashes. This phase can't be altered by medicine or eyelash serums because it is strictly genetic. Only 40% of the upper and 15% of the lower lashes are in an active growth stage at a time.
• Catagen- This growth phase is relatively inactive or intermediate, comes after the anagen phase and lasts between two to three weeks. The growth stops and no pigment is produced. The follicle's base shrinks near the skin's surface.
• Telogen- This growth phase is the shedding phase and this phase lasts the longest (three to four months). The follicle begins to grow new hairs. The new hair pushes up the old hair and allows it to share naturally. Baldness should never occur because each lash grows on its own time.  

Re-Growth

If a lash is pulled out, it will grow back. It does, however, take two to three months for the eyelash to fully grow. Growth can be stimulated by rubbing olive oil and/or coconut oil on the lash line daily for two weeks.

Note: Eyelash extensions do not belong on terribly damaged eyelashes. Use olive and/or coconut oil simulative treatment before getting eyelash extensions.

 

 

 

How to Care for Lash Extensions

When caring for lash extensions it may seem like a lot is involved, but this can easily be incorporated in your daily face washing routine. One or two lashes may come out, but remember up to five lashes naturally fall out a day. You would rather have clean lashes, than to risk healthy and a full wear of lash extensions for two dirty lashes!

Before Appointment

• On the day of your appointment, DO NOT wear ANY eye makeup. Most makeup is oil-based and leaving make up on can hinder the bond between your eyelashes and the medical-grade adhesive.
 

24-48 Hours After Appointment

• No direct water on your lashes for 24-48 after appointment. The bonding takes place during the 24-48 period before it is waterproof. When washing your face, avoid DIRECT water contact.
 

After and Between Appointments

• No sleeping on your face. Sleep on your back preferably.
• No pulling, playing with your lashes. Use a clean mascara brush or the one provided during appointment to brush and clean daily, and throughout the day to maintain.
• No steam or sauna.
• No waterproof makeup. Water soluble makeup is recommended. To get the most use out of your lash extensions, no mascara is recommended. If you do use mascara, again... it should be water-soluble and apply to the tips only.
• Clean lashes daily using baby shampoo or Cetaphil (both oil-free) with the following steps:

1. Splash eyes with water.
2. Place a small amount of baby shampoo or Cetaphil onto your finger.
3. Using your finger, massage the cleanser into the lash-line (lash root). You can do this with your eye closed or open. Whatever is comfortable for you.
4.  Splash your eyes with water until all of the cleanser is gone.
5. Pat skin near lashes with a towel.
6. Allow actual lashes to air-dry.
7. Brush with clean mascara brush.
8. Enjoy long, voluminous, CLEAN Livid Lash Extensions!

REMEMBER: NEVER REMOVE LASH EXTENSIONS YOURSELF. GET THEM REMOVED BY A LASH EXTENSION TECH. IT IS PAINLESS AND YOU WILL NOT DAMAGE YOUR NATURAL EYELASHES!!!!

What Are Lash Extensions?

What are lash extensions?
Similar to hair extensions, lash extensions give the appearance of longer eyelashes to the existing eyelash. Synthetic or Mink single strand extensions are applied to the natural lash to make a look with added volume and length. Synthetic lashes hold curl, and are PETA-friendly. Mink lashes that have been harvested in the United States on live mink animals are available, but are more expensive ($400+) and do not hold the initial curl. Lash extensions are available in different lengths, diameters and colors.

Can I wear makeup, or wet my lash extension?
They can be worn while sleeping, and are waterproof, allowing showers, swimming and delicate cleansing of lashes. Excessive exposure to oil or oil-based products can loosen the adhesive connecting the lash extension to the natural lash. Water-soluble mascara can be used, but is not recommended when trying to achieve the most wear out of lash extensions.

 How are lash extensions applied? How long does it take?
The lash extension procedure is very tedious and takes anywhere from 1-3 hours depending on the desired set of lash extension. One synthetic lash is added to each natural lash, one by one. PRIOR to appointment, the client MUST REMOVE ALL EYE MAKEUP to ensure that the adhesive is able to adhere to the lash. During the procedure, the client's eyes MUST be closed the ENTIRE time. Each client is different. Clients with more natural eyelashes, who desire a voluminous look typically require more time. Lash extension set prices are set and vary according to desired volume and the amount of lash extensions that will be applied to the eyes. Anywhere from 30 lash extensions (more length, less volume) to 90 (more length, plus more volume) can be added to each eye. The adhesive used to bond each lash is a medical-grade adhesive that is very mild. People who have an allergy to acrylic are NOT recommended to wear lash extensions.

Why not just get cluster or strip lashes, when they are cheaper?
Lash extensions look totally natural and the difference between the client's lash and the synthetic lash are microscopic. Lash extensions are in no way, shape or form similar to strip or cluster lashes. Lash extensions DO NOT damage the natural eyelash and are waterproof. Lash extension are weightless. With proper care lash extensions last up to 3 months. To maintain volume, lash extensions require a re-fill or fill-in on an average of every 3 week, depending on natural eyelash growth cycle. The synthetic eyelash will shed with the natural lash and the natural lash will continue to grow. The synthetic lash NEVER touches the skin or hinders the natural lashes growth. On average, a human sheds up to 5 lashes between both eyes daily. Cluster or strip lashes have to be removed and applied more often and damage the natural lash line. Cluster or strip lashes simply don't look natural, weigh more, and do damage to natural multiple lashes.

How long have lash extensions been available?
Eyelash extensions have been used in high-fashion and in Hollywood since the late 90's and have been available in salons since the early 2000's. Livid Lash Extensions are certified and applied with the knowledge of tonsorial theory, along with the constant and continual study of new techniques and products. To get all of these services and more go to: styleseat.com/lividlash and book your appointment today!