All About Lashes

Any female or gay male knows that one's eyelashes are probably one (if not the) most important part of
one's facial composition. They radiate sensuality, act as the perfect accessory for any look, and do a great job in balancing out facial proportions. They're fun to bat at other people (Hello there stud, on the other side of the room), and make you feel like a MAC makeup artist if you're able to do them just right. Most importantly, they just add a general extra 'oompf' to your look next to all of your friends who will probably just use some cheapy mascara to look good on Saturday night. For those of you who haven't, leopards, it's time for you to kick it up a notch.
Having a "larger than life" nose, to put it nicely, I've become an expert at playing up my lashes through different mascaras, false lashes, and semi-permanent lash growing techniques from my plastic surgeon. With some being amazing and others being the most bogus pieces of crap on the market, I have some great recommendations that will make your barely-there eye stubble transform into lashes of Gaga-licious lengths. If you've got a Sephora Beauty Insider card and a little bit of extra time on your hands during your makeup regimen (which you should, because it will only make you look better), than it's about time you stop using that stupid Great Lengths CVS mascara (circa: 1982) and try one of these daring products:
Mascara:
-Dior Show ($28, Sephora, Dept. Stores): Probably the best classic mascara on the market. Yet, it is rather pricey, but it won't only increase the length of your lashes, but will do a number for volume and color, as well. Now if only there was a $28 product that could do that for your boobs, as well.
-L'Oreal Double Extend ($7.99, CVS): The product that got me through middle and high school. For the price, it's actually not that bad, and has a primer and mascara, which is perfect for adding length to short lashed girls like me.
-Deja Vu Fiberwig 3D Mascara ($14.00, Sephora): MY FAVORITE PRODUCT! Honestly, the fiber particles will quickly dry with each coat, and as you continue applying, will be able to increase the length of your lashes. Plus, it's great for people with sensitive eyes, and only needs water for removal.
-Shu Uemera Mascara ($27, Neiman Marcus): Voted by Allure magazine as the best mascara out there, get ready for some black lashes. This product is not only rich in material, but is one of the darkest color blacks that I've seen on a mascara in a long time.
Fake Lashes:
-Ardell False Lashes ($3.50, CVS): Honestly, there's no reason to spend a lot on lashes if they're just for going out. CVS has this awesome line that I swear by, and some of the packaging even comes with a free mini-tube of adhesive. If it's your first stab at lashes, go for these.
-MAC False Lashes ($8.99, MAC Counters): Want something a bit more dramatic? MAC is great if you're looking for something a bit more specific, whether you'd like brown lashes or a style that fans out at the end a bit more. Plus, if you purchase them, a MAC artist will apply them for you on the spot (which is cheating, so don't let me catch you do this).
-Make Up Forever Lashes ($15.00, Sephora): This is for the times you're really looking for something Halloween-status. Coming in all colors and all textures, be a trend setter and rock out in some lime green lashes.
TIPS: If it's your first time, pick up an adhesive in black. Duo, at CVS, makes a great line of black glue; this way, when you're applying it, the glue will dry to blend right in with your eyeliner. Also be sure to place a second layer of glue OVER the lashes to act as a sealer; you don't want to be kissing that boy at the club and all of a sudden have him realize he's got a fake track of eyelashes up his left nostril.
Lash Enhancement:
-Latisse ($120/month supply): If it worked for Brooke Sheilds, it's gotta work for you. But really, this former glaucoma treatment that I've used in the past will have you lashes growing at a pretty steady rate within two months. The key? Consistency. The moment you forget to use it, forget about it.
-Revitalash Eyelash Conditioner ($69/month supply): Does pretty much the same thing as Latisse, but for a lesser price and less dramatic results. But if you're not looking for crazy results, I definitely trust this product and assure you that you won't end up with pink eye or anything after usage.
-Temporary Eyelash Extensions ($25/2 weeks): Done with a special glue that holds sections of lashes together in clusters, this technique is great if you have a long term special event, or anything else that requires you to look nice for a long period of time without actually having to wear a lot of makeup. Envy Nails (4425 Wisconsin Ave) in Tenleytown does a great job in applying this sort of extension (Ask for Kathy).
-Semi-Permanent Eyelash Extensions ($300/3 months): This nearly two hour long process is medically tested and a little bit more legit than the temporary technique. Each strand is glued on individually, and the lashes are sealed there for up to three months (You're also less apt to get an eye infection with this method, which isn't a bad thing). Check out Aveda in Georgetown if you're looking for something this route.

Bat those lashes and pump up your look for spring. You never know who you'll attract.