Imagine a lash treatment that gives you the look of longer lashes without applying any extensions or glue? Healthista’s Vicky Hadley reviewed new LVL lashes
LVL (which stands for length volume and lift) is a new type of eye lash treatment that doesn’t involve adding extensions. Michelle Keegan recently revealed in an interview with OK magazine that LVL eyelashes are her ultimate eyelash secret that she can’t live without. ‘I love LVL Lashes. They look amazing, making my lashes darker and more voluminous’, she said.
So, how does LVL work?
LVL Enhance straightens your natural lashes at the root which gives you the effect of longer, lifted lashes with no extensions, no adhesive and no mascara. The typical process involves a technique of bending back the lashes and takes around 40 minutes and lasts up to 6-8 weeks and the best part? No need to worry about mascara in the morning – unless you want extra long lashes of course, then you can wear mascara if you want.
It is a very strange feeling that I can only describe as uncomfortable yet totally worth it
I lay back on a massage bed and closed my eyes as therapist Francoise placed two white eye replenishing pads under my eyes and over my eye bags to protect the lower lashes whilst also rejuvenating the skin under my eyes. Next she put silicone shields on my upper eyelids to determine the level of the eyelash lift you desire. There are three options from a very dramatic and bold look, an average look and a subtle lift. The shields feel like a double sided sticky tape that work at holding the eyelashes back. The feeling of having my eyelids bent back was not the nicest experience as I was unable to close my eyelids properly. But it didn’t hurt at all.
The silicone shields give the lashes a natural upward curl and lengthened look. Next Francoise applied a tint to my lashes which darkened them giving them the look of added mascara. The tint smells like hair dye, yet it didn’t cause my eyes to water or strain at all and was left to dry for around 20 minutes whilst Francoise did a hand massage. Once the tint was set, she groomed my lashes with a make-up free mascara brush before removing the silicone shields so I could have a look at the results.
The room seemed a little darker due to my new darkened lashes, and my blue eyes looked extra bold and bright thanks to the now extremely long-looking effect my lashes now sported.
I was given Nouveau Lashes’ conditioning Lash serum (£14.99) to apply morning and night to keep my lashes clump free and separated. It acts as a conditioner keeping your lashes groomed and soft and works just like a clear mascara when you apply.
It has now been just over four weeks and my lashes have finally started to return to normal. LVL lashes can last up to eight weeks. With my LVL lashes I could comfortably go out or to work with no make up on and feel pretty. However, for nights out and when I wanted a more dramatic look, a couple of strokes of mascara gave me the eyelash extension look. Overall I loved the LVL look and how easy and convenient it was, although they say it can last up to eight weeks I think that after three weeks they will definitely need a top up.
I am in love with my LVL lashes and think this could be the start of a long term relationship
LVL lashes by Nouveau lashes start from £49.00 but prices can vary depending on chosen salon.
What to be aware of after your treatment:
For the first 48 hours after any Nouveau Lashes Extend or Express treatment it’s important not to allow water to come in to contact with your lashes.
For 2 days afterwards do not steam your face, use a steam bath, swim or wash your face with hot water
Do not use waterproof mascara
Don’t rub your eyes when washing your face – always pat the lashes dry after cleansing.
Ensure lashes are not manipulated into different positions (e.g. when sleeping, cleansing the face, applying moisturiser or cosmetics)
You will need to return to your salon for a professional top-up for your Extend lashes every two to three weeks to ensure they look their best for longer.
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