Why We Don’t Offer Eyelash Extensions at Ira Bale Brows — And Why You Might Want to Rethink Them Too

By Ira Bale

Founder, Ira Bale Brows – South Yarra & Toorak Village, Melbourne

“I used to get lash extensions. They looked amazing… until one day, I had no lashes left.”– Client, first-time lash lift, August 2024

We hear stories like this every single week at Ira Bale Brows. Beautiful women, loyal to their lash techs, who show up with thinning lashes, itchy lids, and a feeling of “I just don’t know what happened.”

Let me say it plainly: Eyelash extensions are destroying natural lashes — and the industry isn’t talking about it enough.

That’s why at Ira Bale Brows in South Yarra and Toorak Village, we made a clear decision: We don’t offer lash extensions. Not because we can’t. But because we care too much about the health of your real lashes to compromise them for short-term glam.

Stunning eyelash lift by Ira Bale Brows showcases beautifully enhanced and curled lashes, adding elegance and depth to the eyes.

First, Let’s Talk Science: What Eyelash Extensions Actually Do to Your Natural Lashes

Extensions may look amazing — at first — but here’s what’s going on underneath:

1. Traction Alopecia

Yes, it’s a real thing.When you continuously glue heavy synthetic lashes onto your natural ones, the follicle weakens over time — sometimes permanently. This condition is called traction alopecia, and it can lead to irreversible lash loss [1].

2. Lash Mite Imbalance (Demodex)

Sounds gross? It is.The oil and glue buildup from extensions can cause lash mites (which we all naturally have) to multiply excessively, resulting in itchy, inflamed eyelids and even eye infections [2].

3. Chemical Sensitisation

The cyanoacrylate adhesive used in most lash extensions is harsh. Clients often develop sensitivities over time — especially those with rosacea, eczema, or naturally sensitive eyes [3].

Why It Matters: The Psychology of Fragile Beauty Habits

Here’s the thing — when you’re trapped in the lash extension cycle, you’re not just damaging your lashes. You’re losing autonomy over your own beauty.

We’ve had clients say:

“I couldn’t go anywhere without a fill — I felt naked.”“I stayed with a lash tech I didn’t love because I didn’t want gaps.”“It was starting to affect how I saw myself without them.”

This isn’t just about lashes. It’s about reclaiming low-maintenance confidence — and that’s what we help clients rediscover every day.

What We Recommend Instead (That Actually Nurtures Your Lashes)

At Ira Bale Brows, we’ve created an entire lash philosophy rooted in care over covering. Instead of extensions, we offer:

Keratin Lash Lift + Tint

Think of it as a push-up bra for your lashes — minus the trauma.

• Lifts your own lashes from the root

• Infused with strengthening keratin

• Finished with a dark tint for “mascara but better” vibes

• Results last 6–8 weeks

• Zero damage when done properly (and ours always are)

Bonus? Your lashes actually get stronger over time.

“It was like rehab for my lashes — they came back better than before.”– Client, ex-extension addict, Toorak, June 2024

Our Go-To Package: The Lam ‘n Lift

Includes:

• Brow Shape

• Brow Lamination & Tint

• Lash Lift & Tint

It’s your whole upper face, completely refreshed — no glue, no upkeep stress, just healthy enhancement.

Real Talk from the Treatment Bed

One of my clients, let’s call her Mia, came in with brittle lashes and said,

“My last lash tech told me they’d grow back — but it’s been 6 months.”

We looked at her lash line under magnification.There were bald patches. Inflammation. Weak growth.

We started her on a lash rehab protocol:

✔️ Lash lift every 8 weeks

✔️ Keratin-infused growth serum

✔️ Lash tint instead of mascara

✔️ Patience and consistency

Three months later, she came in and said,

“I wore no eye makeup to a wedding — and I felt incredible.”

That’s what this is really about. Getting your freedom back. Getting your lashes back.

Final Word: If It Requires Hiding Damage, It Isn’t Beauty

Beauty should feel like relief — not a maintenance contract.

Eyelash extensions may give you dramatic results fast, but they demand long-term sacrifice that’s often hidden behind thick black fans and glue. At Ira Bale Brows, we’re not interested in hiding damage. We’re here to help you undo it — and replace it with care that actually lasts.

If you’re ready for healthier, stronger, natural lashes — book a Lash Lift with us today in South Yarra or Toorak Village.

Or try our Lam ‘n Lift package for a full face revival.Your lashes will thank you. So will your eyes. And so will future you.

Sources:

1. Glaser, D. A., et al. (2011). "Traction Alopecia: Clinical and Histologic Features." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

2. English, F. P., & Rich, L. M. (2018). "Demodex and Eyelid Health." Clinical Optometry

3. Watanabe, K. (2020). “Adverse Reactions to Cyanoacrylate-Based Adhesives in Lash Extensions.” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology