Korean Eyelash Extensions: Shu Eyelash

It seems as though Korea’s high standards of beauty have many running to the best plastic surgeons money can buy. I’m not one to want to go under the knife, but I’ll admit after years of living in Korea, even I get a little self conscious at times. Luckily, there are many MANY other ways to enhance your physical beauty that don’t require surgery or thousands of dollars. One of those ways is through eyelash extensions.

If you’re unfamiliar, there are a few different types of eyelash extensions. The ones I’m referring to are synthetic lashes (typically made of silk). They’re applied over your natural eyelashes one by one. A special adhesive is used that is designed to last until the natural lashes fall off on their own.

This process is incredibly common in Seoul and there are several places that provide this service. You may not notice at first, but many women get these false lashes as a way to make their eyes pop or look bigger. Also, it’s a great time saver when doing you’re make-up in the morning. Honestly, when they’re done right, you may find that you can get away with wearing little to no makeup. It’s fantastic!

As fabulous as they are, they do require a bit of maintenance and attention, but if taken care of properly, these lashes usually last 4~6 weeks. I’ve been to a few places around Seoul over the years, but for the past 8 years I’ve been going to a place near Itaewon Station (이태원역) called Shu Eyelash.

If taken care of properly, these lashes usually last 4~6 weeks and if you go back in after 3 weeks, you can usually get a touchup for half the price. I’ve had the process done twice so far and was lucky enough to have good experiences both times. Most recently I visited a place near 이태원역 (Itaewon Station) called Shu Eyelash.

Shu Eyelash is a small place run by Shu, as she prefers to be called, who has been practicing eyelash extension for around 14 years now. She is really friendly and can speak English well. Eyelash extensions come in various lengths, colors and thicknesses, from natural-looking, to glamorous, to dramatic. The first time I went in, we discussed what I wanted and she gave her opinion on what might look best on me. She also has a few examples on display if you have no idea what you want. Since I work in the entertainment industry, I tend to lean towards a slightly more dramatic look. Something that would look better in photos and on TV, without looking too fake in person. A lot to ask for I know, but she always pulls it off.

Her office is nice and quiet with soft mellow music playing, so it’s very relaxing. The whole process takes one and a half to two hours. Time I use to take a short nap (something Shu recommends). And in the end, no matter how many times I go, I’m always super impressed with the results. I even had her do my lashes for my wedding.

Basic lashes will run you 55,000 KRW, but can go up to 99,000 KRW if you want extensions 3-5x longer and thicker than your natural lashes. After two weeks, you can go in for a 33,000 KRW touch up if you’d like them to last longer. Since she runs her own shop, she only takes in one person at a time and only by appointment only. I recommend making an appointment through kakao talk because it’s super easy. You can reach her through her Kakao ID: shu407 or by phone: 010-9188-0506.

FAQ

How do you maintain eyelash extensions?

• Don’t allow any any oil based or moisture rich products to get on your eyelashes, this includes oil based makeup removers. Exposure to shampoo, conditioner and heavy creams could also cause the glue to loosen.
• Do not rub, tug at or excessively touch your extensions as it could lead to damaging your natural lashes.
• Make sure to lightly brush through your extensions with an eyebrow or lash comb to keep them looking nice and full. You can also use eyelash conditioner or growth serum to strengthen your natural lashes and give more support to the extensions.
• Take it easy on the eye makeup. These lashes don’t require any mascara or eyelash curlers whatsoever, in fact the less eye makeup you wear… the longer they will last. But if you’re a liquid eyeliner person like me, it will require some GENTLE precision to apply and remove it (preferably with a q-tip).

How do you remove eyelash extensions?

• Eyelash extensions will fall off on their own when you shed your natural lashes. But if you want to get rid of them sooner, you can have them removed for 10,000 KRW. Attempting to remove them on your own can result in damaging your natural lashes, so definitely have them professionally removed.

How can I make an appointment with Shu?

• The best way to make an appointment is through KakaoTalk (Kakao ID: shu407) at least 3 days in advance or by phone: 010-9188-0506.

Where is Shu Eyelash located?

• Itaewon-ro 211 Hannam Building #407