How to Get The Look of Lash Extensions with No Damage

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Pink Sweater: Wildfox [c/o] [wearing size small] | Bangles: Kate Spade | Eyeshadow: MAC | Mug: Francesca’s

Photography by: Angie Garcia


Last week I did a fun little Snapchat Q&A during our stay in Rosemary Beach and after the Q&A I kept getting lots of comments and e-mails asking about who does my lashes! I’ve done a lash routine before, but I thought it couldn’t hurt to do an updated one!

Let’s get down to business, shall we?!

First things first, I have never had lash extensions. It’s pretty common [even more so in Texas] to have them done, so I almost feel offensive saying that! I think they are beautiful, in fact every single time I see a girl flutter her lashes with a pair I’m almost tempted!

However, I just haven’t gotten on board with the damage they can cause, so instead I’ve just created a ridiculous little routine to do at home! haha! I’ve used this routine on five different girlfriends that had damaged eyelashes from lash extensions and it gave them crazy, long lashes. I promised them to keep at the routine for 3 weeks and they would see a huge difference. It gets to a point that my hair stylist has to cut her eyelashes [don’t ever do! haha] and I have to stop using the serum and base mascara for a few weeks at a time because my lashes get so long and thick. So if you don’t think long lashes are in the cards for you without some falsies, I promise this routine works miracles!

1.Serum

First off, use a great serum to grow your lashes. I pinky promise by neuLASH. Working in this industry and constantly testing products, it is really difficult for me to go back to a product after I have used it all up. I’m always certain there is a dupe or another product that does the same. However, this is the best lash serum I’ve ever tried and I stockpile it at all times! You apply this like a liquid liner [it is clear!] on your lashes before bed, and in 3-4 weeks you are growing Rapunzel lashes. They also have this product for your hair. I’ve purchased it and tried it and I do have a little con. It makes your hair a bit sticky. You have to apply it every night on your scalp before bed and I always felt like it messed with the natural texture of my hair, however it saves my life after a haircut goes too short! I cut my hair about 2 months ago and took a few inches off. I loved it for a week, then missed it. I used this and within a month couldn’t tell a difference. I just did want to tell you that your hair will feel like it has some product in it. If you wash your hair in the morning or restyle, you won’t tell them! It won’t grow your hair 18 inches in 6 months or anything crazy like that, but it is a pretty certain way to get a few more inches in a quicker manner than normal!

2.Base Mascara

This step might be a bit high maintenance [but what good hair routine isn’t?! 😉 ] but I find it absolutely necessary! I love to use a peptide-enhancing mascara as my base layer. Oh yeah, I said base layer. haha. Any good hair stylist will mix different levels in your hair for the perfect shade and a good makeup artists mixes foundations to find the perfect texture for your skin. Me? I mix mascaras. I got hooked on this mascara by my friend who is a beauty manager, and she told me if she quit her job tomorrow this is the only product she would miss. A girl who has access to all the La Mer in the world and she chose a mascara?! But I just want to preface by saying this is silly for a mascara in terms of price, but I only purchase twice a year [my birthday and Christmas] and it gets me through the year! The Chantecaille Faux Cils Longest Lash Mascara has a peptide technology that infuses your lashes and allows them to grow longer. So while you sleep your lashes get the serum and during the day your lashes get this! I only apply one coat of this because not only is it great for your lashes in terms of growth, it also is an amazing base mascara. My lashes are long, volumized and separated in one swipe so it is completely worth it. However, I know that is so silly and we all have our “things” we will spend money on. If mascara isn’t it for you, no big deal! Here is a dupe by Neulash for $32. And if you think the serum is enough, I love this mascara for a base builder. My mom purchased it a few months back and it has since been stolen from her makeup bag! #maybeImguilty #maybeImnot

3.Volumizing Mascara

The key I think in layering mascaras without getting a clumpy look is to do thin layers of different mascaras. You’re getting the same amount of product, but each wand separates a little bit better and each formula works a little bit differently. Next, I add in the volume! My two choices for this step are Urban Decay Perversion or Chanel Le Volume Mascara. I will be honest and say my favorite of the two is definitely the Chanel, but there is a $10 price difference and when applying I don’t see that big of a difference. I just think the Chanel gives a bit more volume. Not enough to truly notice if you are layering!

4.Separating Mascara

Lastly, you need a third layer that will separate all the layers and keep your lashes clump free! I have used this one for years and I never deviate! I love the bareMinerals Lash Domination Mascara for this step! It’s a pretty good price at $19 and has separated messy, lashes before in times that I was in a rush or not applying very well!

5. Remover

After a long day of meetings, running around and a few layers of lipstick in between meals, you take all your makeup off! However, my makeup will fade by the end of the day but my lashes don’t. If I’m not careful I won’t remove all traces and then I’m left with little clumps for the next day and that’s never cute! My favorite makeup remover that is gentle, but gets every last bit is the Clinique Take The Day Off. I started with the cleansing balm and have also tried the simple remover. I think my personal favorite is the balm, but they just came out with wipes too! I keep wipes in my nightstand for nights that I don’t feel well or am exhausted so I have no excuse to sleep in lipstick!

So if lashes aren’t your thing, maybe my routine is a bit much! But if you love lashes as much as me, I can’t explain enough about how well this routine works. And being a blogger I don’t like to go overboard about products that work because:

A. That sounds incredibly advertised and this post isn’t

B. I know products work differently for different girls

However, I’ve used this routine for years and everyone thinks I’m wearing falsies daily! So I’m pretty committed to it! haha. And it has helped one too many a girlfriends cry after a bad lash extension experience! So if you are in that boat, I truly hope that a few of these products help you and you can have that look naturally, with a little help here and there! 😉

Let me know if you have any questions about the products! Thank you so much for stopping by!

XOXOKatey-2

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37 Comments

  1. Shonda wrote:

    Have your lashes been very long? Mine are normal length I just wondered if it would mak them thicker and longer?

    Published 05 Jul 16Reply
  2. Jaime wrote:

    I love these tips! Do you do just one light layer of each product? I always seem to have trouble with clumping when I try to layer on different mascaras.

    XO, Jaime | RegallySoled.com

    Published 05 Jul 16Reply
    • Katey wrote:

      Hi Jaime!

      I do 1-2 layers of each mascara! I wouldn’t say they are super light but just normal!

      Xoxo,

      Katey

      Published 05 Jul 16Reply
  3. I used to have eyelash extensions, and had them for a good year, until I had an allergic reaction to the glue 🙁
    But I must say, it is SO nice being able to wear mascara again, and not having to worry about when I will find the time to get a lash fill, etc! They are so much maintenance! I love finding new mascaras that can give a similar effect 🙂

    BlondieInTheCity.com

    Published 05 Jul 16Reply
  4. Kath wrote:

    Aren’t those Kate Spade bangles, not Kendra Scott?

    Published 05 Jul 16Reply
    • Katey wrote:

      Hi Kath!

      Haha yes! I had a brain freeze while typing, I’ll have to change that when I get home! But the link is correct!

      Xo,

      Katey

      Published 05 Jul 16Reply
  5. Hi! 🙂

    I’ve never used lash extensions but I do use a lot of glue-on falsies and I hate ripping them off of my eyelids every night!

    I’ve been using a lash serum from L’Oreal that’s about $15 and it DOES work, but very very slowly.

    Do you usually get the NeuLash in the 0.1 ounce or the 0.2 ounce? How long does it last you if you use it every night??

    Xo, Leslie

    Published 05 Jul 16Reply
    • Katey wrote:

      Hi Leslie!

      I use the .2 ounce! The .1 lasts for about 3 months and the .2 lasts for about 6!

      xo,

      Katey

      Published 05 Jul 16Reply
  6. Your lashes always look amazing! Thank you for sharing your routine, I cant wait to try the neuLASH!!

    xox | Tess
    Sequins are the New Black

    Published 05 Jul 16Reply
  7. Veronika wrote:

    I had lash extensions for three weeks and they ruined my real lashes- lots fell out and broke off. I am re growing mine right now but I’m nursing so I can’t use any serums. I will have to get back on serums when I’m done. Thanks for the product reccs!

    Published 05 Jul 16Reply
  8. Melissa wrote:

    I would love to post this to my Pinterest board for easy access finding. Is there a way to do that from just this entry? I don’t see a way….

    Published 05 Jul 16Reply
    • Katey wrote:

      Hi Melissa!

      If you just hover your mouse over the top left of my photo on the post you can pin the post!

      xo,

      Katey

      Published 05 Jul 16Reply
  9. Nichole wrote:

    Thank you for sharing! Your lashes always look amazing! I cannot wait to try the serum and base. I had a horrible experience with false lashes a couple years ago because of an allergic reaction to the glue they used and lost the majority of my lashes. I still feel like they’re not the same!

    Question – do you let each coat dry before applying the next? Or, do you layer while they’re still wet?

    Published 05 Jul 16Reply
  10. Love this post Katey!! I recently got eyelash extensions and I do not like them at all, so I am so happy I now have a plan for when they grow out! I literally have added all of these products to my Nordstrom bag!

    Xo,
    Leah
    https://thesuburbanista.co/

    Published 05 Jul 16Reply
  11. Alyssa wrote:

    I’ve always wanted extensions but didn’t want to deal with the maintenance, so I tried the neuLASH when you recommended it a while ago and I LOVE it.

    Alyssa

    Published 06 Jul 16Reply
  12. I am going to start with the neuLASH and then incorporate the Chantecaille and go from there #BudgetFlow! I like to experiment with mascara and you have given me some great suggestions during Nordstrom’s buy 2 get one sale! Thanks for sharing! 🙂 -Stephanie

    Published 06 Jul 16Reply
  13. Ashley wrote:

    Hi Katey! I am obsessed with lashes and mascaras. About a year ago my favorite drug store brand discontinued my favorite mascara. (My lashes almost touched my eyebrows… 😉 It was that good!) I have been on the hunt for a new mascara ever since. I will spend anything for a good mascara. Do you know if you can use the NeuLash serum while pregnant??? I have tried searching for information about the product and pregnancy and couldn’t find any information.

    Thanks!!!

    Ashley

    Published 06 Jul 16Reply
    • Katey wrote:

      Hi Ashley!

      I don’t have to fact info about that on NeuLash, but I have conflicting answers on other serums. Lilash tells pregnant and breastfeeding users to wait and another product was said as being “okay!” However, I would wait until after you are done breastfeeding and wouldn’t recommend during pregnancy! Thanks so much for reading!!

      Xoxo,

      Katey

      Published 06 Jul 16Reply
      • Katey wrote:

        Any fact info* sorry! Haha

        Published 06 Jul 16Reply
    • Cynthia wrote:

      What was this miracle mascara? Do share! xoxox

      Published 09 Aug 16Reply
  14. Elizabeth wrote:

    Hi Katey! Do you know which color MAC eyeshadow you are wearing from the linked palette? It’s so pretty!

    Thanks!
    Elizabeth

    Published 06 Jul 16Reply
  15. Megan wrote:

    Love this post! Thanks for the information, I can’t wait to try it!

    Published 06 Jul 16Reply
  16. Caitlin wrote:

    Thanks so much for sharing Katey! I definitely need to try out the neuLASH serum!

    xo Caitlin
    caitlincarol.com

    Published 06 Jul 16Reply
  17. Taylor Kelley wrote:

    I love reading your blog!! I feel like I am hanging out with a girlfriend. It’s nice to have a blogger who is writing real reviews about products that actually work – not just adverts. Thanks Katey!

    Published 06 Jul 16Reply
  18. Alexandra Evans wrote:

    I Just bought EVERYTHING, my wedding is in October and I hope this works and i dont have to use falsies!! Thanks so much!

    Published 06 Jul 16Reply
  19. Carla wrote:

    Hi Katey! This post is right on time! I was talking with a girlfriend recently about growing out my lashes without having to use falsies. You always provide such useful beauty information. I’ve learned so much. Keep up the great work!!

    Published 06 Jul 16Reply
  20. Lindsey wrote:

    Not gonna lie, I am almost tempted to get eyelash extensions. After reading this post, maybe I am doing things wrong. I am going to try a serum before I hop on the extension train. Your lashes are stunning! I have found that even with eye makeup remover, wipes, washing, and toning–I still have mascara residue. Lately, I have found that contact solution on a q-tip works wonders on removing the last little bit. Sounds totally crazy, but it works!

    Published 07 Jul 16Reply
  21. Emily wrote:

    Do you have any other eyelash serums that you would highly recommend? I am a college student who doesn’t necessarily want to spend $95, but will if I have to.

    Published 07 Jul 16Reply
    • Katey wrote:

      Hi Emily!

      I completely understand! I personally haven’t used another serum!

      Xoxo,

      Katey

      Published 07 Jul 16Reply
  22. Hannah wrote:

    Hi Katey!

    Does the serum have any chance of discoloring your eyes? I’ve always wanted to try Latisse but haven’t because I would prefer my green eyes to stay green and I know there is a risk of turning them brown.

    Thanks!
    Hannah

    Published 07 Jul 16Reply
    • Katey wrote:

      Hi Hannah!

      I have green eyes and have never had that issue or heard of it with NeuLash! I know it happens with Latisse though! I hope this helps!

      Xoxo,

      Katey

      Published 07 Jul 16Reply
  23. Amanda wrote:

    Thanks. Ha wish I would have caught this during Anniversary sale as one review claimed it during sale. I’m definitely going to give it a try and let you know how it worked.

    I always look at your lashes and say how pretty they are. I’m not one to do false or extensions so I will definitely look forwarding to experimenting with this sometime in the coming weeks.

    Published 22 Aug 16Reply
  24. Ashley ciaccia wrote:

    Thank you so much for this post. I’m honestly shocked that you don’t have lash extensions. Your eyelashes look incredible and I just always assumed they were fake haha! I am really leaning toward getting neulash from the Nsale, so while my husband doesn’t thank you, I do!!!
    -Ashley Ciaccia

    Published 13 Jul 17Reply
  25. Lauren naeve wrote:

    I struggle also with thin (non noticeable) eyebrows. Do you think I could try a little of the serum on those also for growth or is there another you would recommend? I know most women seem to have huge bushy eyebrows they are trying to always tame down and mine are exact opposite. Thanks

    Published 19 Dec 17Reply
    • Katey wrote:

      Hi Lauren! They have a serum called Neubrow you can use! My girlfriend uses it for her brows and it works wonders! Or this serum works great, too! xo

      Published 27 Dec 17Reply
  26. Nancy wrote:

    I just found this post because you linked it on your instagram stories. I have been going back and forth about getting lash extensions, but the cost and maintenance has held me back from doing it. Your lashes always look so good so I decided to buy the neulash serum! When should I start seeing results from it? I am so excited to try it.

    Published 14 Sep 18Reply
    • Katey wrote:

      Hi Nancy! Yay! So excited for you to experience this serum. The box says 6 weeks, but my girlfriends all have seen results in 4 weeks! xo, Katey

      Published 19 Sep 18Reply