A happy medium between the two? Eyelash extensions.
I’d heard about eyelash extensions but I’d never actually tried them before I walked into the Wink beauty bar in Bellevue. I could not have chosen a more perfect place to “pop that cherry”. I’d also heard a lot of great things about products similar to Xlash serum, which told me that I really hadn’t considered all of my options in the eyelash department.
Wink Lash Extensions, located in downtown Bellevue, provides its patrons with a plethora of ‘maintenance’ type services, including lashes, waxing, body bronzing, glycolic peels and nails. The beauty bar kicked off its second year this past November and continues to draw attention with not only stellar technicians trained meticulously in their craft but also with its determination to use top of the line products in all provided services.
From the moment you walk into Wink, you’ll find yourself put at ease from the friendly greeting of the receptionist to the hospitality she provides as you wait for your appointment. The decor is chic and refreshingly vibrant from the color-coated rooms to the beautiful finger-paintings by Iris adorning the lobby.
Tova Edwards, Wink’s founder and eyelash extraordinaire, was warm, genuine and assuaged any concern one could have when trying something new–including assuring me that the extensions wouldn’t damage my natural eyelashes.
When getting the extensions, you’ll lie on a heated bed and they’ll tape down your bottom lashes so they won’t accidentally be extended or stuck to the top lashes. I’ll be honest, this is the strangest sensation of the whole process but at least it doesn’t last long. The top lashes are then cleaned with an oil-free make-up remover and primed with a diluted alcohol solution. From there she’ll attach the extensions one by one directly to each individual lash. This process takes the most time for the initial set but it’s the highest quality method. It should also be noted that Wink uses a carbon-free glue, thus limiting the risk of allergic reaction.
One of the advantages Wink offers over other beauty bars is that multiple services can be done at once, drastically cutting down your time commitment. Since I’ve a weakness for the dramatic, I couldn’t resist the glitter-encrusted Rockstar Shellac mani/pedi.
Since my eyes were closed for the extensions, Lecky was kind enough to walk me through her process. After everything is cleaned up, from scrubing to cuticle work, a base coat is applied to the nail and then a layer of shellac similar to the color of glitter I’d chosen. She then brushes on a mix of Martha Stewart craft glitter (it’s extra fine has impeccable shine) and seals it with two top coats.
I could not have been more pleased when I opened my eyes: long fluttery lashes and pure stardust on the tips of my fingers and toes. Tova made sure that I was comfortable, that nothing was poking my eyes or that glue hadn’t slipped to anywhere it shouldn’t be. Before I left that night I was heavily equipped with aftercare information and urged to contact them if for any reason I had questions or something went wrong.
I left Wink not only feeling like a rock star, but feeling wonderfully cared for which I can’t say I’ve ever felt from a beauty bar. But don’t just take my word for it, visit for yourself.
And luckily for you, Wink is hosting an event where you can see their work at an amazing price.
Saturday, February 2nd, grab your girlfriends, sip some champagne, enjoy some sweet treats and receive some fabulously discounted services:
Shellac Manicure $15 (regularly $35)
Body Bronze $15 (regularly $45)
Glycolic Peel $15 (regularly $50)
Call (425) 502-8178 or book online at WinkLashExtensions.com to reserve your Beauty Bash services!
Photo credits: Wink (images 1-2); Jessica Tupper (image #3).
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