By Luna Tapu
Living in a tropical paradise like Samoa is a dream come true for many of us especially those like myself who have relocated back to the homeland. However the scorching heat and humidity can be a challenge for the modern Samoan woman who strives to succeed and look and feel their best while juggling multiple responsibilities
We’ve all experienced the struggle of wearing makeup that melts away as soon as we step outside, leaving us looking less than our best. But fear not, my fellow island goddesses, because I have found the solution to all our beauty woes: Muse Lash and Brow services.
Located just outside of Apia in the suburb of Tulaele, Muse Lash and Brow studio is a haven for anyone who wants to enhance their natural beauty without the hassle of high-maintenance beauty routines or worrying about how the heat will have us looking more goth than glam by the end of the day.
As someone who’s had a lash lift before in New Zealand, I was a bit hesitant to try it in Samoa considering it was relatively new to the beauty scene, but I was pleasantly surprised by the fantastic service and results by Liz and the team at Muse. With over 10 years of experience in the New Zealand Lash industry behind her, Muse Lash and Brow Studio founder, Liz Ah-Hi is a Lashworx certified lash technician and trainer who wants to give locals and visitors more choices in the beauty scene of Samoa while also providing high quality products and services.
Ladies and gents, If you havent had a lash lift before, dont worry I’ve got you covered. Here’s all you need to know about lash lifts:
What is a Lash Lift?
A lash lift is basically a perm for your lashes. It involves an all-natural, semi-permanent procedure that gives you the appearance of fuller, thicker eyelashes without the use of any leave-on chemicals or extensions. The natural lashes are boosted from the root, giving them a lifted, lengthened appearance
How is the lash lotion applied?
First, the lash technician will cleanse your lashes. Then, she will separate your bottom lashes from your top lashes and apply a silicone shield on top of your eyelid with a gentle adhesive to keep it in place. She will gently comb your top lashes upward onto the shield and fix them in place with more adhesive. Finally, she will apply the eye-safe perming lotion to your upper lashes. The lotion acts by softening the bond of the hair so it becomes moldable to the desired shape.
How long does it take to complete a lash lift?
Depending on the thickness of your hair, the whole process can take about 45 -75 minutes. After the perming lotion has been left on your lashes for the required amount of time, the lash technician will wipe away the lotion and apply a setting solution for another ten to 15 minutes to restructure the lash bond and lock in the curl. Finally, she will apply a nourishing lotion to condition and hydrate the lashes.
Who is not a good candidate for a lash lift?
A lash lift is not suitable for anyone with:
- Very short lashes or no lashes at all
- Extremely sensitive skin
- Skin allergies
Are lash lifts safe?
When performed by trained and experienced lash technicians, lash lifts are extremely safe. According to Liz at Muse Lash and brow Studio, their products are safe, gentle, fast-acting, and cream-based, making application easy to control. During the treatment, your eyes are covered on both the top and bottom with protectors. The perming lotion and setting solution are carefully applied to the eyelashes, not to the skin. If for some reason these lotions come into contact with the skin or eye, they can be wiped away and flushed with water. If you have skin sensitivities, your lash technician can perform a patch test at least 48 hours before your appointment to ensure that you won’t have any adverse skin reactions during the treatment.
How should I prepare for my lash lift appointment?
You should follow these guidelines in preparation for your lash lift appointment:
- Avoid wearing eye makeup (especially mascara) to the appointment
- Remove contact lenses beforehand if you are a lens wearer
- Shower and wash your hair beforehand – you should not get your freshly-lifted lashes wet for at least 24 hours after application
How can I maintain my lash lift?
We recommend the following aftercare instructions for the first 24 hours after your lash lift:
- Avoid getting lashes wet (i.e. no showering, face-washing, swimming or profuse sweating)
- Avoid wearing mascara (especially waterproof mascara) or other eye makeup
- Avoid rubbing lashes into your pillow at night
In order to keep your lashes looking their best, we recommend that you condition your lashes by applying a moisturizer such as coconut oil or a facial oil nightly. Otherwise, lash lifts are very low maintenance and require no specific aftercare.
How long does a lash lift last?
The results of a lash lift typically last between four to six weeks depending on the growth cycle of your lashes. As your permed lashes naturally shed, straight lashes will grow out behind them. Therefore, we recommend a lash re-perm after six weeks to maintain results.
Can I wear mascara on my lifted lashes?
You are free to use whatever eye makeup (including mascara) you like after having a lash lift. However, you should wait 24 hours following your treatment before applying any eye makeup.
Can I combine a lash lift with a lash tint?
Absolutely! For those who would like to add depth and darkness to their lashes, Muse Lash and Brow Studio offers a of combination lash lifting and lash tinting services. A combination lash lift and tinting treatment takes one hour and fifteen minutes. The results of a lash tint typically last three weeks.
How much does a lash lift cost?
A Lash Lift will set you back SAT$90 but ladies it is worth it and you deserve it! I have already made the decision that a Lash Lift is a permanent routine in my monthly to-do list because I cant imagine going back to basic lashes ever again.
One of the best things about Muse Lash and Brow studio is the personalized service you receive. The lash technician takes the time to understand your needs and recommends the right size curling rod to shape your lashes. They also make sure that you’re comfortable and well-informed about how to take care of your lash lift.
And the icing on the cake? As part of their March special, I got a free brow shape and tint. Muse also offers a range of semi-permanent brow treatments like brow lamination and henna but I think that’s a whole other blog for another day. People often underestimate the power of a groomed and full pair of eyebrows, but they truly open up your face and brighten your eyes.
The studio is located in a beautiful, lush garden, providing a private and relaxing environment where you can unwind and let the lash and brow experts work their magic. So, if you’re in Samoa and want to beat the heat while looking and feeling your best, head over to Muse Lash and Brow Studio. Trust me, your lashes and brows will thank you!
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