Eyelash extensions are on trend lately. The bigger, the longer, the bolder, the better! I had the opportunity to try out eyelash extensions at Ayumi Japan Eyelash last Sunday. Located in Unimart building in Greenhils, Ayumi Japan Eyelash offers services such as manicure, pedicure, nail art, foot spa, eyelash extensions and retouches. All products are sourced from Japan. 🌸 In this post, I’m sharing my experience and thoughts about lash extensions and the Swedish massage therapy. Also, below are tips and answers on what to expect which I think will be useful and helpful mostly for the uninitiated but curious. 😉
Ayumi 5D Lash Extensions at Ayumi Japan Eyelash (Greenhills, San Juan)
When I went in for the first time, I had zero idea about lash extensions. Will the application be painful? How long will the process take? Which type of extension swill be best for my eyes? How long will they last? How should I take care of them? What are they made of? These were the burning questions in my mind, which were all answered during my visit.
Reception area:
Lashes room:
First things first: What are lash extensions?
Unlike temporary false lashes, eyelash extensions are semi-permanent synthetic, faux mink or silk fibers which are applied strand by strand to your natural lashes to enhance your eyes. The benefits of mink lash extensions are that they are more feathery looking and lighter in general, so they put less pressure on your lashes.
Lash extensions are carefully applied one at a time using a specially-formulated, semi-permanent glue that won’t irritate or damage the natural lash. Each set should last about four to six weeks, depending on how you care for them and general wear and tear.
What types of lash extensions are available at Ayumi?
As mentioned above, Ayumi uses products from Japan. Premium sable light lashes and high-grade glue are used so these will not damage but enhance the growth of natural eyelashes. Ayumi eyelash extensions are also said to be long-lasting because of their quality and craftsmanship. Individually applied to natural eyelashes, they last for 3 to 5 weeks with retouches in between. There are extensions that feel a bit harder and those that are soft and light.
The health and thickness of your natural lashes as well as the shape of your face and eyes will be used to determine the right set of extensions for you. If you’re unsure, don’t fret! They have a menu to help guide the consultation, and the staff helps determine the lash extension that will best fit your aesthetic.
I told them I prefer a natural look and not too much with a dramatic voluminous effect. The staff suggested the Ayumi 5D Lash Extensions 12mm with a natural “C” curl.
Selfie before the procedure
How did the application process go?
I laid on a comfortable table with my eyes closed. The staff cleaned my eye area before beginning and placed pads and tapes around my eyes to allow her to get as close to the lash line as possible. The bottom lashes were shielded with under-eye tapes. This was the most uncomfortable part since I could feel the tapes whenever I blink while my eyes were close. Anyway, I got used to the mild discomfort after a while.
She then glued individual fibers to my own lashes at the root, stopping many times to look from different angles and brushing the lashes to make sure everything was perfect. During the application, we chatted and she explained what she was doing so I could understand. When she had finished, I slowly sat up and used a hand-held fan to finish drying the lashes before the mirror.
What to expect and what to do before the application?
It’s one tiny lash at a time, so don’t expect it to be snappy. Typically, it takes at least 90 minutes and possibly upward of two hours depending on the style of the lash extensions. In my case, the application took about an hour.
To get things done faster, you should arrive without makeup or mascara at least. Also, visit the restroom before the appointment begins since you won’t be able to open your eyes until at least the next hour. If you can find a way to relax, you can take a nap. I couldn’t take a nap because I was worried about my contact lenses.
Speaking of contact lenses, another tip is to remove them before the procedure. Since I was wearing contact lenses and didn’t bring a contact lens solution and case to remove them, I was worried about having an eye infection, having dry eyes, or worse, having swollen eye I couldn’t even open. Thankfully, my eyes were okay after dropping artificial tears to lubricate the lenses and relieve the dryness problem.
“After” photo
What was my first reaction upon seeing the result?
It gave me a little shock. I didn’t expect how the lashes would look but I was impressed overall. The extensions really made my eyes look bigger and more striking! My eyes now looks amazing without any other eye makeup. No need to worry about having raccoon eyes with mascara or my eyelashes falling off with strips anymore! I love that the lashes are strategically designed with angles to ensure every last lash is curled.
What to do and not to do after?
Dont’s: After-care instructions include not wetting the lashes for the next five hours (so that the glue can dry completely), not applying mascara, and only using oil-free makeup and makeup remover. The following should also be avoided: steam, putting my face directly into the water in the shower, rubbing my eyes, and sleeping face down. All these can harm or damage the extensions or worse–make the natural lashes fall out.
Do’s: To preserve lash extensions, keep them clean and gently brush them with a pristine mascara wand or spoolie brush every day. The less you mess with them, the better and longer they are going to stay.
How much did it cost?
Lash extensions can be a splurge. They’re perfect for special events and occasions and for those days when you want to look instantly beautiful and polished. The prices at Ayumi range from PhP 1,000 to PhP 5,000, depending on the type and desired look. For proper maintenance, you can go back for a retouch (P500) or a repair (PhP 750) every ten days.
Massage Therapy at House of Resha
Ayumi also has a spa area which debuted recently. It’s called House of Resha and it specializes in facials, body massages, body care, and lash lifts. I had the pleasure and convenience of getting a body massage right there as well.
Facial room:
Massage room:
One step into the massage room and I found myself drifting away into an oasis of calmness. House of Resha’s massage room is a peaceful and tranquil place with its own glass shower enclosure, so guests can take a shower before the massage. Toiletries and pampering sets of products are provided in the powder area, to give you that helping hand when you need to unwind. Bathrobe, slippers, disposable underwear, and disposable shorts are also available.
The therapist used a body lotion and massage oil that glided smoothly on the skin. With confident hands, she dished out 60 minutes of pure relief. Flowing, firm, consistent. She was attentive to adjusting pressure and found all of my tight spots in my back. The massage technique used was Swedish massage, a treatment for better circulation and manipulation of soft tissues of the body. Soothing instrumental music played in the background, and as if sounds go through the muscles, the tunes almost lulled me to sleep. After the massage, a warm towel was used to wipe off the excess oil.
Worth recommending?
Yes! The long strokes, kneading, deep circular movements, vibration and tapping can definitely help relax and energize you, especially after a long walk or shopping around Greenhills. It’s a feel-good way to rejuvenate your body and indulge yourself without the exorbitant price tag of a luxury spa. If you prefer gentle rubs that will send you to slumber, then House of Resha is the place for you.
Wrap Up
Ayumi and House of Resha (in the same space) in Unimart Greenhills are like hidden gems. The moment you enter, you are in sanctuary, away from the busy shopping environment. The therapists will take you through their various services and offerings, you pick your treatments from their menu, and your pampering begins. Set your mind free, soothe your senses, and bid your stress and worries goodbye. Prices of their services are reasonable, so money will be well spent. 😉
Follow them on social media to get the latest promos and announcements:
House of Resha
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/houseofreshaph/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/houseofreshaph/
Ayumi Japan Eyelash
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ayumi.bfhomes/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ayumi.eyelash/
About Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco
Health and technology freak. Food and lifestyle blogger with a large appetite for food and travel.
I am all about massages! I have never done anything with my eyelashes though. I’m not sure if I’d feel comfortable with that, but I’m always on board for a relaxing massage.
Yeah. Lash extensions can be worth the money, but they’re definitely not for everyone. Research before you give it a go. 🙂
That looks beautiful! I have never done something like this before but I think it would be fun to do!
It was also my first time so I’m happy it turned out fine. 🙂
I could use spa treatments like this it looks so relaxing to have some me time. Those eyelash extensions came out so well and really make the eyes look so good.
Thank you!
What a great looking salon it sounds like you had an amazing time getting your lashes done and they look fantastic!
Thank you!
I could go for a place like this! A massage and other services sound divine!
A must try! But just remember to choose your look carefully. Let the lash technician walk you through the process. There’s a fine line between gorgeous, fluttery lashes and spidery, obviously fake-looking lashes.
I could stay there all day long. That looks so nice!
They also do facial care treatment (no pricking!). 😛
Your lashes came out looking beautiful! It looks like a great salon overall.
Thank you! 🙂
Thanks for sharing your experience, this looks like a great salon. I really love how your lashes turned out.
Thank you! 🙂
That sounds like such a rejuvenating and relaxing experience. I love going to spas!
Great to indulge yourself after a long stressful week!
Wow, looks gorgeous! I have been planning to have my eyelashes done and this made me decide. Thanks for this post.
Thank you! 😀
I love lash extensions! Yours look amazing! This entire post has reminded me that it’s time to book another massage.
Thank you!
Oh, I need to have this done so bad! My eyelashes are nonexistent these days.
If you feel like mascara isn’t totally cutting it and you’re okay with the extra maintenance and cash that eyelash extensions require, it’s definitely worth finding a specialist and having a consultation. 🙂
They are so pretty on you. I have dry eye syndrome so that is a no go for me. My daughter would love them!
Thank you!
Oh my goodness, those look so great! I’ve been tempted to try this, but wasn’t sure about the expense. Like you said- a splurge, but for a trip or big event it would be worth it!
You do not have to deal with the messiness of applying fake eyelashes or the potential disaster of a strip of lashes falling off during partying or any other fun activity. 😉
I would love to have eyelashes extensions, this looks like an amazing place to have them
You should give it a try! 🙂
Wow, I really love the overall look of that place. The lashes look amazing too. You can really see the difference.
Thank you! 😀
It sounds like a great place to get a massage! I didn’t realize that eyelash extenders were a thing. It seems like a good alternative to fake eyelashes.
I feel like the dramatic effect the eyelash extensions bring to my eyes makes my eyes always a focal point.
This looks like a really nice place! Your eyelashes look really beautiful – I’ve wanted to try getting these!
Thank you!
Wow, what a difference. Very bold. I have always wanted to do this, I may give it a try. Thanks for the recco!
I love my new lashes simply because when I wake up in the morning, I’m good to go. And it’s perfect for vacation because that means no smeared mascara underneath my eyes in the hot, humid weather!
Hi, just swinging by! Bagay sayo Roch!
Thank you! 🙂