Eyelash extensions

What types of eyelash extension are available in Estonia?

Eyelash extensions divide into several techniques. Classic extensions (1:1) — one extension lash attached to one natural lash — give a natural, prettier version of your own lashes. They suit anyone who wants to reinforce their natural lashes for everyday wear. A 2D-3D set attaches 2–3 fine extension lashes to a single natural lash, giving a fuller look without a change in weight. Russian volume (5D, 7D, 10D and up to 20D Mega Volume) — the technician attaches a "fan" of 5–20 ultra-fine extension lashes to each natural lash.

By style, extension sets fall into: classic doll-eye (uniformly longer in the middle), cat-eye (longer at the outer corners — giving a "cat eye" effect), and wispy/textured (mixed lengths — the fashionable 2024–2025 style). A quality lash technician measures the length, thickness and strength of your natural lashes first, in order to choose a suitable extension size — extension lashes that are too heavy will damage the natural lashes.

A lash lift (curling and tinting the lashes) is an alternative to extensions for anyone who wants to strengthen and curl their own lashes without any foreign material. The result lasts 6–8 weeks. Salons and studios such as Duaal Ilusalong in Jõgeva, Esimene Ilustuudio in Tallinn, Felicia Ilusalong, Naturee Ilustuudio in Tartu and Lootuse Ilusalong in Tallinn offer a range of lash services.

Eyelash extension prices and how the appointment works

The price of eyelash extensions depends on the technique and the salon. Classic 1:1 extensions usually start from 50–80 €. A 2D-3D set costs 60–100 €. Russian volume (5D-7D) costs 70–120 €. Mega Volume (10D+) costs 100–180 €. An infill appointment (3–4 weeks after the first visit) is typically 30–60 € and is needed to maintain a lasting result. A lash lift with tinting costs 40–70 €.

A typical first visit lasts 90–150 minutes. The lash technician cleanses the lashes (removing make-up and oil), covers the lower lashes with a protective pad, chooses the length and shape of the extension lashes to match the structure of your natural lashes, and attaches the extensions one by one with fine tweezers and a lash-specific adhesive. An infill appointment lasts 60–90 minutes and involves topping up the extensions that have been lost.

Extensions typically hold for 3–4 weeks before an infill. Natural lashes grow an average of 0.12–0.14 mm per day — because the extension is bonded to a natural lash, it sheds naturally along with that lash at the end of its growth cycle. When everything has been done correctly, 50–60% of the extensions are still in place after 4 weeks — that is the point at which an infill appointment is due.

How to choose a lash technician

Eyelash extensions may only be applied by certified lash technicians who, in addition to basic cosmetology training, have specific eyelash extension training. The salon normally needs a cosmetology business permit. Favour a technician whose Instagram or website shows a range of lash styles (not just one) and clearly features photos of settled results (grown-in, not freshly applied).

A consultation is strongly recommended, especially for a first-time client. A quality technician assesses the strength, thickness and length of your natural lashes and recommends a realistic type of extension — mega volume is not right for everyone (a fine natural lash cannot carry that much material and will be damaged). It is a warning sign if a technician immediately agrees to whatever you ask for, or pushes the "fullest" option straight away without assessing your natural lashes.

Hygiene is an absolute requirement with eyelash extensions. An experienced technician uses sterile tweezers, single-use protective pads for the lower lashes, an individual portion of lash adhesive (rather than the same batch for every client) and thoroughly cleans the work area between clients. An allergic reaction to the adhesive is rare but serious — if your eyes are red, swollen or itchy the next morning, contact the salon immediately.

Caring for extended lashes

For the first 24 hours after the application, avoid water, the sauna, swimming pools and anything that could get the lashes wet — the adhesive needs 24 hours to cure fully. After that, daily care matters. Wash the lashes 1–2 times a day with a dedicated lash cleanser (lash shampoo) — this removes dust, make-up, skin oil and sebum, which without cleansing can cause irritation of the lash follicles or a bacterial infection.

Comb the lashes through with a soft brush every day once they are dry, to keep the extensions tidy. Avoid oil-based make-up remover (oil breaks down the lash adhesive) and choose a water- and soap-based remover instead. Mascara is usually unnecessary with extensions — if you do want it, choose a dedicated extension-friendly mascara (water-based, lash-friendly).

Your sleeping position affects how long extensions last. Sleeping on your back preserves the shape of the extensions better than sleeping on your stomach or side (which rubs the lashes against the pillow). A silk or satin pillowcase is preferable, as it reduces friction. In the morning, comb the lashes through before you get on with the rest of your routine.

Eyelash extensions in Estonia's most popular towns

In Tallinn, hundreds of beauty salons and specialised lash studios offer eyelash extensions, among them Lootuse Ilusalong, Esimene Ilustuudio, Felicia Ilusalong and other salons in the capital. Every extension technique is available in Tallinn, from classic 1:1 through to Mega Volume. Given the sheer choice, it is worth looking into what a particular lash technician specialises in before you book.

In Tartu, eyelash extensions are offered by Naturee Ilustuudio, Esimene Ilustuudio Tartu, Ilona Ilusalong and other salons. Pärnu, Narva, Jõgeva (Duaal Ilusalong), Keila and Saue also offer a wide range of lash services. Salons in county centres mostly cover classic 1:1 and 2D-3D extensions; for the more complex Russian volume techniques it is worth checking with the specific salon. Since infill appointments are a regular commitment (every 3–4 weeks), choose a technician whose location suits you for a long-term relationship.