RADIO FOUR WOMEN’S HOUR

radio four woman's hour

In case you missed it, Radio 4 Woman’s Hour discussed the history and benefits of false lashes. Here is a summary of the main points discussed.

In 2019, there was an astronomical 795% increase in searches for false lashes. Most women want to know how to wear and maintain them. Also, how easy are they to apply, and what are the options? 

HISTORY OF LASHES

The movement of false lashes has been around for a long time. In the past, women would try to fix their eyelids with human hair using pins. Makeup artists would glue eyelashes onto actresses to the point where their eyes were inflamed and irritated. Women have been striving to make their eyelashes look more appealing for centuries dating back to the late 1800s when they went to extremes such as implanting needles and forcing human hair. It's astonishing when you think about it.

YOUR NATURAL LASHES

What purpose do eyelashes serve aside from the obvious aesthetic benefits?  They do more than just look good; they play a vital role in protecting your eye health by keeping dust and other particles out of your eyes. Is it true that eyelashes are the first hairs to grow in a developing fetus? You have approx 100 to 150 eyelashes on the upper lid and 80 to 100 on the lower lid!  In between the eyelashes is a gland called Meibomian G, which is exclusive to the eye and produces the oily layer of your tear film to protect the cornea and ensure you have clear vision. 

STRIP LASHES

It's becoming more popular to enhance one's eyelashes, so let's take a look at the available methods.  The most widely used is the strip lash - it's an artificial lash that comes in one strip, and you glue it on after waiting for it to become tacky and not completely dry.  Many women are familiar with false eyelashes, but it can take quite some time to learn how to use them. It's a skill to be acquired and you need to have a sense of fun with them.  Our Invisylash range sit underneath your natural lashes and really are the easiest lashes to use on the market. 

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SEMI-PERMANENT LASHES

Semi-permanent eyelashes are applied by a therapist, one at a time or in small clusters, and they can last around 6 weeks. They can be pricey to get done, since it's a lengthy process, and they require some extra care. You need to be wary when removing makeup, avoiding oils, combing them every day, and being careful in general to ensure that the bond remains strong. Women usually only get them done for special occasions, but once you start, do you have to keep up with them? 

Make sure you have them removed by a professional with oil, or else you can risk damaging your lashes. If you don't take care of them, your lashes will become thin and sparse, and you can end up in a cycle where you feel like you need to keep doing it. Most people can't afford to keep doing it.   However, to keep your natural lashes in tip top condition, you can use our Bionic Serum which works wonders for conditioning and strengthening.

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EYE HYGIENE

From a medical standpoint, it is critical to remember that the meibomian glands in between the eyelashes can become blocked, resulting in a condition called blepharitis. This can also lead to the buildup of bacteria, as well as mites called demodex. Though it does sound quite unpleasant, it cannot be seen with the naked eye, though it can be viewed under a microscope. This buildup of debris and bacteria can bring about infections on the surface of the eye, and can even affect lash growth, creating a vicious cycle. All ophthalmologists emphasise something called lid hygiene, which is taking extra care of your natural lashes.  We recommend you remove your Invisylash every evening and clean your eyes using a decent eye makeup remover.

CONCLUSION

I've had a chance to try every type of eyelash out there, and my favourite method is to cut off the last third of the false lashes and secure them just to the outer corner. That way, you get all the effect with none of the fuss, and you don't have to worry about them sliding down your face or ending up in your dinner!

LINK TO RADIO FOUR PODCAST

Radio Four Woman's Hour False Lashes