While the perks of being a model rank fairly high on the job spectrum, they’re often not as exorbitant as outsiders think. Between the farce of having free designer clothing thrown directly in our wardrobes to plane tickets pouring out our ears, there are a few perks that keep us going when the days are long and dreary.
One of my favourite little bonuses is when I get ‘gifted’ the pair of fake lashes that are concretely glued to my eyelids. Of course, I’m of the sort that likes to wear their set makeup home after the job. Sometimes the artists will ask for the lashes back and hey, I get that — they aren’t cheap. But I’m going to let you in on a secret makeup artists have that enables them to reuse fake lashes up to 20 times.
Between the job and home, make sure the lashes are in a safe place where they won’t get crushed — ideally back in the eyelash box where they can maintain their curve. It’s hard to unkink eyelashes if they’ve been crushed in a pocket or purse.
Once you take them off (be gentle) soak them in makeup remover to get rid of all the mascara and eyeliner. After they’ve soaked for a few minutes, run a spoolie (clean mascara wand) through the lashes to get rid of any excess makeup.
Once the lashes are clean, pat them dry with a paper towel. It’s also a good idea to spray them lightly with some rubbing alcohol to disinfect them. Let the lashes air dry and gently bend any hairs, as well as the band, back into place.
If you were lucky enough to sneak away with a pair of mink lashes, take extra care as the hairs pull out of the silk band very easily.
Don’t bother trying to save individual lashes. They bend very easily and are a pain to put on by yourself.
A gummy, grimy set of eyelashes on the bathroom sink is sure to scare off even the toughest of house guests. For their sake and yours, store them safely, clean them up, and thank your stars for the $7 off your next night out.
