Lashes Take Center Stage

It's new, it's now and it appears to be here to stay-we are talking the boom in eyelash enhancements. Please don't think of former televangelist Tammy Faye Bakker or 1960s super model Twiggy. Today's long, lush and absolutely natural-looking lashes are achieved with extensions applied lash-by-lash for an eyeful of glamor that lasts several weeks.

Red carpet beauties are among the devotees of eyelash extensions, but salons around the country are offering this service to a growing clientele of regular folks with short or thin natural lashes. The service is lucrative at several hundred dollars for an application and upwards of $50-$100 for maintenance.

NOVA LASH is a system of eyelash extensions created by cosmetic chemist and 2007 International Cosmetic Manufacturers and Distributors "Cosmetic Innovator of the Year" winner Sophy Merszei, whose interest and expertise in permanent cosmetics and cosmetic adhesives insures safety along with a great dose of glamor.

LAVISH LASHES professional eyelash extensions are water resistant and come in various lengths and colors. Tim Dana, president of the company, stresses Lavish Lashes' strict training standards-all professionals experience extensive training with a Lavish Lashes expert before performing actual salon applications.

"Eyelash extensions have gone from a hot new trend to an established must in beauty services," says Dana.

Former make-up artist, model and actress Dionne Phillips trained for five years to perfect the art of eyelash extension application. She now offers D'LASHES extensions at her Beverly Hills studio to a celebrity clientele that includes Lindsay Lohan, Sharon Stone and Naomi Campbell.

TWEEZERMAN, manufacturer of professional nail and skin care implements, is on the eyelash extension bandwagon with its Protech Lash Applicator tool. The stainless steel applicator has a thin, flat edge and a long handle that allows the professional to safely apply either lash strips or individual lashes to both upper and lower lashes.

For clients who would prefer to cultivate their natural lashes rather than opt for extensions, consider eyelash conditioners and treatments. REVITALASH was developed by a physician for his wife after her lashes were damaged by chemotherapy. The conditioner makes natural lashes appear longer, fuller and thicker even without make-up. Revitalash is available at more than 2,000 salons nationwide.