Booking your first set of lash extensions in Singapore can feel like a big step. You have probably scrolled past dozens of “wake up and go” lash photos, wondered whether the results look natural in real life, and asked yourself what actually happens when you lie down on that bed with your eyes closed. Those questions are completely normal, and they are the same ones we hear at our outlets every week.

This guide walks you through the whole journey, from choosing a time slot online to brushing your new lashes on the morning after. We will cover how booking works, how to prepare, what the consultation feels like, what happens during the 1 to 2.5 hours of application, and how to look after your set so it stays full until your first refill. Along the way, we will share the practical, local details that first-timers often ask about, like which outlet is closest to an MRT station and how to fit an appointment around a busy work week.

We are writing this as the team at The Lash Company, where we have focused on eyelash extensions since 2016. Many of our first-time clients tell us the anticipation was the hardest part, and that once they understood each step, the appointment itself felt more like a rest than a beauty treatment. Our hope is that by the end of this article, you will feel the same way: informed, relaxed and ready to choose a look you love.

Are Lash Extensions in Singapore Right for You?

Before we get into the appointment itself, it helps to understand what you are signing up for. Eyelash extensions are single strands of synthetic eyelashes that are applied to each of your individual natural eyelashes. They are not a strip that sits on your lash line, and they are not glued to your skin. Each extension is attached to one natural lash, which is why the result can look so seamless.

For many people in Singapore, the appeal is practical. Our climate is warm and humid, and mascara can smudge or flake by mid afternoon. With a well-applied set, you wake up with defined lashes without reaching for a wand. Clients tell us they enjoy shorter morning routines, fewer panda-eye moments after a run or a yoga class, and feeling put together on video calls without full makeup. Because the bonding agent in the adhesive is waterproof once settled, you can swim, exercise, shower and visit the spa after the first 3 hours.

Who tends to enjoy extensions

In our experience, extensions suit people who want a low-effort daily look, those preparing for a special occasion or holiday, and anyone whose natural lashes are straight, short or light in colour. They also suit people who simply like the feeling of looking a little more awake. At The Lash Company we celebrate individuality, so there is no single “correct” look. Some clients want something so subtle that colleagues cannot quite say what has changed. Others love a fluffy, dramatic finish.

When to pause and check first

Extensions are not suitable for everyone, and it is worth being honest about that. Our service policy notes that eyelash extensions may carry inherent risks such as redness, itching, swelling and other symptoms of ocular discomfort. If you have an existing eye condition, recently had eyelid surgery or Lasik, or are pregnant, please speak to your doctor before booking. For Lasik, we do not recommend extensions before a minimum resting period of 1 to 3 months, and for pregnancy, we recommend waiting until at least the second trimester (14th week) onwards, with your doctor’s advice.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology explains that lashes should be applied by an experienced aesthetician in a sanitary setting, with chemicals that are safe for your skin. That is a sensible checklist for choosing any salon. If you are unsure whether extensions suit you, the consultation (which we cover below) is the right time to raise it, and your doctor or an eye specialist is the right person for any medical questions.

Booking Your First Lash Extensions Appointment in Singapore

Booking is the simplest part of the process, but a few small decisions at this stage can make your first visit smoother.

How to book

Appointments are made online, and the form takes approximately 3 minutes to complete. You can head straight to our page to book your eyelash extension appointment. We endeavour to respond to requests within one working day, and once your booking is successful, you will receive a confirmation email. If that email does not arrive, it is worth getting in touch so we can check your booking. As a courtesy to other clients, please avoid making duplicate bookings across outlets or time slots.

If you would like help with the online booking, our teams can advise over text or WhatsApp. Each outlet has its own number: Katong is +65 9113 7675, Holland Village is +65 9144 0377 and Tras Street is +65 9862 8474. These lines are for text or WhatsApp only.

Choosing an outlet

We have three outlets, and all of them share the same opening hours: Monday to Friday from 11 am to 8:30 pm, and Saturday to Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm. You can find full directions on the page for our lash salons in Katong, Holland Village and Tras Street, but here is a quick overview.

  • Katong (East Coast): 101 East Coast Road, #02-00, Singapore 428796, next to “An Acai Affair”. Street parking is available along Joo Chiat Road or at Katong Point shopping mall, and the area is served by many bus routes.
  • Holland Village: 27B Lorong Liput, Singapore 277738, above “Project Acai”. The nearest MRT is Holland Village (CC21), Exit C, about a 3 minute walk.
  • CBD (Tras Street): 68 Tras Street, #02-01, Singapore 079007. Tanjong Pagar MRT (EW15) is approximately 5 minutes’ walk, and Outram Park MRT is approximately 8 minutes’ walk.

Picking a time that works

What we often see at our outlets is that first-timers underestimate how relaxing the appointment is, and then rush off to something stressful straight afterwards. Because the application takes about 1 to 2.5 hours depending on the style you choose, try to leave a little buffer on either side. Weekday evenings near the CBD outlet are popular with people coming from the office, while weekend mornings suit those who prefer a slower start.

Understanding the policy before you go

It is worth reading our service policy once before your first visit. In short, please give at least 12 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. A text reminder is sent the day before, and replying to confirm helps us manage the waitlist. Deposits are non-refundable if an appointment is cancelled in less than 24 hours, so set a calendar reminder for yourself.

How to Prepare in the Days Before Your Appointment

A little preparation goes a long way. Clean, product-free lashes give your stylist more working time and help the adhesive bond well, which supports retention. Retention simply means how well your extensions stay attached over the weeks after your appointment.

Three days before

Please avoid oil-based and cream-based cleansers for 3 days before your appointment. Oils can leave a film on your natural lashes that interferes with adhesion. If your usual makeup remover is a cleansing balm or oil, switch to a water-based remover for those few days. This small change is one of the easiest ways to set your first set up for success.

If you have a facial planned, we recommend scheduling it a week before your lash session rather than just after, because the oils and steam used in facials may affect adhesion of the extensions.

On the day

Please arrive without eye makeup. Mascara, eyeliner and eyeshadow all need to be removed before your stylist can begin, and clean eyes give our artists more time to focus on your lashes. If you have dry eyes, do apply some eyedrops before your session so you feel more comfortable lying with your eyes closed.

Practical comfort tips

Many of our first-time clients find these small things make the appointment more pleasant:

  • Dress comfortably. You will be lying down for a while, so soft clothing helps.
  • Eat beforehand. A light meal means you will not be distracted by hunger.
  • Use the restroom first. It is easier than pausing midway.
  • Leave contact lenses at home if you can. Many people find glasses more comfortable on the day. If you rely on lenses, mention it during your consultation.
  • Plan your journey. If you are driving to Katong or Holland Village, check parking ahead. If you are heading to Tras Street, remember that Tanjong Pagar MRT is about 5 minutes’ walk.

Arriving on time matters

The time allocated for your appointment includes your initial consultation, the lash service and payment. If you arrive late, your stylist will work with the time available, which may mean adjusting the style or fullness. If you are uncontactable before or 15 minutes into your appointment, the appointment may be cancelled. Arriving a few minutes early gives you time to settle in, which we find helps nervous first-timers relax.

Payment

We accept PayNow, bank transfers, VISA, MasterCard and American Express via our GrabPay merchant. Having your preferred method ready means you can head off without fuss once your lashes are done.

Your Consultation: Choosing the Right Style

The consultation is where your appointment really begins. It is a conversation, not a sales pitch, and its purpose is to match a style to your natural lashes, your face and your lifestyle.

What your stylist looks at

Eyelash extensions come in a variety of lengths, thicknesses and curls. Curl type describes how much an extension lifts upward, from a gentle curve to a more dramatic flick. During the consultation, your stylist will look at the health, length and density of your natural lashes before recommending anything. At The Lash Company, we believe healthy, natural eyelashes result in longer lasting eyelash extensions, so the condition of your own lashes guides every choice.

All of our stylists are required to go through professional training and have at least 200 lash hours achieved before serving clients, so please ask questions freely, such as “How will this look with no makeup?”

The styles on our menu

You can browse Classic, Hybrid and Volume lashes before your visit, but here is a summary of what each set offers:

Set Strands Price First trial
Natural Classic Up to 120 $98 $78
Full Classic Up to 250, depending on natural lash count $118 $98
Hybrid (Classic + 2D) Mix of single and 2D $138 $108
2D Volume Up to 400, depending on natural lash count $158 $128
3D Volume Up to 500 $168 $138
Full Volume Up to 800, depending on natural lash count $188 $158

“Classic” means one extension on one natural lash. “Volume” means a fan, which is a small bundle of very fine extensions attached to a single natural lash. Our Full Volume set uses handmade fans of 3 to 6 lashes, with thinner extensions of 0.05 to 0.07mm so they do not weigh down your natural lashes.

A gentle recommendation for first-timers

In our experience, many first-timers are happiest starting with Natural Classic or Hybrid. Natural Classic gives a subtle look with the illusion of a thicker lash line, while Hybrid adds a little fluffiness from 2D volume. Starting softer lets you get used to the feeling and see how your natural lashes respond. You can go fuller at your next visit if you love it.

A typical example

Here is a common scenario. A first-time client books a weekday evening at our Tras Street outlet after work. She has straight, fairly fine lashes, wears glasses, and is nervous that extensions will look “fake” in the office. During the consultation, her stylist notices that her natural lashes are healthy but not very dense, and suggests a Natural Classic set with a soft curl. They talk through her routine: she exercises three mornings a week and uses an oil cleanser at night. The stylist explains that she will need to switch to a water-based remover and keep her lashes dry for 3 hours after the appointment. Two weeks later she returns for her refill and asks to try Hybrid for a holiday. Starting natural and adjusting once you know how your lashes behave is an approach we see often.

The Application: What Happens During Your 1 to 2.5 Hours

This is the part most first-timers wonder about, so let us take it slowly.

Getting comfortable

You will lie comfortably on a bed with your eyes closed for the whole application. Before the extensions go on, your lash line is prepared and your lower lashes are kept out of the way so only the upper lashes are worked on. Once everything is set up, your job is simply to relax. Many clients chat a little at the start, then let the quiet time become a rest, and some drift off completely.

Isolation and application

Your stylist will then carefully apply the extensions on each of your natural eyelashes. The key skill here is called isolation, which means separating one natural lash from its neighbours so the extension is attached to that single lash only. Good isolation matters because lashes grow and shed at different times. When each lash is attached individually, your natural lashes can continue their cycle without being stuck together.

For a Classic set, one extension goes on each suitable natural lash. For Volume sets, your stylist creates a fan and attaches it to one natural lash. For Hybrid, the two techniques are placed strategically across your lash line for a fuller finish with some texture.

How long it takes

The application takes about 1 to 2.5 hours depending on your style of choice. A Natural Classic set sits at the shorter end because there are fewer strands to apply. Fuller Volume sets take longer because each fan is made and placed by hand. The American Academy of Ophthalmology notes that the procedure can take as long as two hours, which matches what most first-timers can expect for a classic or hybrid set.

What it feels like

Most clients describe the sensation as very little at all. You may feel your stylist gently brushing or positioning your lashes, and you may notice a mild scent from the adhesive. Keep your eyes closed throughout. If anything feels uncomfortable, such as stinging, watering or a sensation that something is in your eye, tell your stylist straight away. Speaking up is encouraged, and your stylist will pause and check.

The finishing touches

When the application is complete, your stylist will check the set for any extensions that may be stuck together and separate them, then brush through your lashes. As part of every visit, we include a deep cleansing lash spa, which removes dead skin, oil, dirt and bacteria to help prevent eye infections and irritation, and a hydrating collagen eye mask to relieve fatigue and puffiness. Clean lashes and a clean lash line also help your extensions last longer by avoiding premature fall-outs due to poor adhesion.

Then comes the moment you have been waiting for: you open your eyes, take a look in the mirror and see your new lashes for the first time.

Eyelash Extension Aftercare: The First 48 Hours and Beyond

What you do after your appointment has a big influence on how long your set stays full. The good news is that aftercare is simple once it becomes a habit.

The first 3 hours

After your lash service, keep your lashes dry for 3 hours. That means no washing your face, no steamy showers, no workouts that make you sweat heavily and no swimming. The bonding agent in the adhesive is waterproof once it has settled, but those first hours give it the best start. If you have dinner plans straight after, that is fine, just avoid crying at a sad film or a spicy meal that makes your eyes water.

Your daily routine

Our full eyelash extension aftercare tips are on our FAQ page, and here are the key points:

  • Avoid shampoo, conditioners and face masks coming into contact with your lashes.
  • Avoid rubbing your eyes, as it risks abrasions and infections.
  • Do not use oil-based or cream-based cleansers.
  • Eyelash curlers, mascara, gel eyeliners and cream eyeshadows are not suitable with extensions.
  • Use a water-based makeup remover and a lash cleanser for hygiene and retention.
  • Brush your lashes daily to keep them neat and tidy.
  • Nourish and strengthen your natural lashes with a strengthening lash serum.

Using your spoolie

Every service comes with a complimentary aftercare kit, which includes a spoolie wand. To prevent criss-crossing, close one eye, place the spoolie on top of your lashes, then roll the brush over your lashes to keep them defined. Doing this once a day, especially after you wake up, keeps your set looking fresh.

Makeup with extensions

Minimal eye makeup is recommended, as it may interfere with retention. If you do apply some, cleanse it off thoroughly with an appropriate lash cleanser. Many of our clients find they wear less eye makeup overall, because the extensions already frame their eyes.

Sleeping and daily life

Try not to sleep with your face pressed into the pillow, since friction can bend extensions. You can swim, exercise, shower and enjoy the spa once the first 3 hours have passed. Keeping your lashes clean is the single most useful habit. A clean lash line helps prevent the build-up of oil and debris that can weaken the bond.

If something does not feel right

Mild awareness of your new lashes is normal at first. However, if you notice redness, itching, swelling or discomfort that does not settle, contact us within three working days of your appointment so a follow-up consultation can be arranged. For any eye symptoms, please see a doctor or an optometrist promptly. The American Academy of Ophthalmology advises that if you have an allergic reaction to extensions, you should not try to remove them yourself, and should see an eye doctor instead.

Refills, Removal and Planning Your Next Visit

Your first appointment is the start of a routine, so it helps to know what happens over the following weeks.

Why your set thins out

Your natural lashes shed and regrow constantly, and your extensions shed with them. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, it is normal to lose between one and five eyelashes each day, and lashes grow, fall out and replace themselves in a natural cycle every six to 10 weeks. That is why even a perfectly applied set gradually looks less full. A set of eyelash extensions typically lasts between 3 and 5 weeks, depending on your eyelashes’ natural cycle and your daily routine.

When to book a refill

A refill tops up the lashes that have shed and replaces extensions that have grown out. Refills are recommended 2 to 3 weeks from your last appointment, and refills can only be done within a certain time frame, so if it has been a while, contact your outlet and we will advise whether a refill or a fresh set suits you. Depending on the refill you choose, it takes between 30 and 75 minutes. Refill prices vary by set and timing. For example, Natural Classic refills are $68 (recommended within 2 to 3 weeks), while Hybrid refills are $78 within 3 weeks or $98 within 4 weeks. The full list is on our lash menu.

What we often see at our outlets is that clients who book their refill before leaving their first appointment find it much easier to keep their set looking consistent. It also means you are more likely to secure your preferred stylist and time slot.

If you have had extensions elsewhere

Due to various technical reasons, we advise against refills on another artist’s work, though we may be able to help depending on the situation, with an extra charge of $20 for the added time. We are unable to refill cluster lashes. If you are switching salons, contact us first so we can assess your lashes.

Professional removal

If you decide to take a break, change styles, or have a set from another salon that needs to come off, please book a professional removal rather than trying to take extensions off yourself. Pulling, picking or using home remedies can damage your natural lashes. Removal at The Lash Company costs:

  • $15 (15 minutes) for Classic or Volume lashes done by The Lash Company
  • $25 (15 minutes) for Classic or Volume lashes from other salons
  • $40 (30 minutes) for Cluster or YY lashes

A trained stylist can remove extensions safely and check the condition of your natural lashes at the same time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a first lash extension appointment take?

The application itself takes about 1 to 2.5 hours, depending on the style you choose. A Natural Classic set is usually at the shorter end, while fuller Volume sets take longer because each fan is created and placed by hand. Your appointment time also covers a short consultation beforehand and payment afterwards, so allow a little extra time on either side. We suggest not booking anything stressful straight after your first visit. Many of our first-time clients enjoy the chance to rest, and some fall asleep during the application. If you are coming from work, our Tras Street outlet in the CBD is about 5 minutes’ walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT, which makes an evening slot easy to reach.

Does getting lash extensions hurt?

For most clients, no. You lie on a comfortable bed with your eyes closed while your stylist works, and the main sensation is light handling of your lashes. Some people notice a faint scent from the adhesive. If you feel stinging, watering or discomfort at any point, tell your stylist immediately so they can pause and check. Keeping your eyes fully closed and relaxed helps a lot. If you have dry eyes, applying eyedrops before your appointment can make you more comfortable. Should you notice redness, itching or swelling after your appointment, contact us within three working days, and please see a doctor or optometrist for any eye symptoms.

Which set should I choose for my first time?

There is no single right answer, because the best set depends on your natural lashes and the look you want. In our experience, many first-timers start with Natural Classic ($98, first trial at $78) for a subtle, everyday effect, or Hybrid ($138, first trial at $108) for a little more fullness and texture. Your stylist will assess the health and density of your natural lashes during the consultation and recommend a length, thickness and curl that suits you. Starting softer lets you learn how your lashes respond, and you can go fuller at your next refill if you would like more drama.

How long will my first set last?

A set of eyelash extensions typically lasts between 3 and 5 weeks, depending on your eyelashes’ natural growth cycle and your daily routine. Your extensions fall out as your natural lashes shed, which is a normal process. To keep your set looking full, we recommend a refill 2 to 3 weeks after your appointment. Refills can only be done within a certain time frame, so if it has been a while since your last appointment, contact your outlet and we will advise whether a refill or a fresh set suits you. Good aftercare also makes a big difference: keep your lashes dry for the first 3 hours, avoid oil-based cleansers, brush them daily with your spoolie, and avoid rubbing your eyes.

Can I wear makeup or go swimming after my appointment?

You can swim, exercise, shower and visit the spa with eyelash extensions, as the bonding agent in the adhesive is waterproof once settled. The one condition is to keep your lashes dry for the first 3 hours after application. For makeup, minimal eye makeup is recommended because it may interfere with retention. Mascara, eyelash curlers, gel eyeliners and cream eyeshadows are not suitable with extensions. If you do wear some eye makeup, remove it with a water-based remover and a lash cleanser. Many clients find they need very little makeup once their lashes are done.

Your First Set of Lash Extensions in Singapore, Made Simple

Getting lash extensions in Singapore for the first time is much less mysterious once you know the steps. You book online in a few minutes, prepare by skipping oil-based cleansers and eye makeup, and then enjoy a consultation where your stylist looks at your natural lashes and helps you choose a style. The application takes about 1 to 2.5 hours while you rest with your eyes closed, and it finishes with a cleansing lash spa and a collagen eye mask. Afterwards, simple habits like keeping your lashes dry for 3 hours, brushing daily and booking a refill within 2 to 3 weeks help your set stay full.

The most important thing is to feel comfortable asking questions. Whether you are curious about curl types, worried about how extensions will look at the office, or unsure whether they suit your eyes, your stylist is there to talk it through. For anything medical, your doctor or optometrist is the right person to ask.

At The Lash Company, we have been helping people discover premium eyelash extensions since 2016, from first-timers who want something barely there to regulars who love full volume. If you are ready to wake up with lashes that feel like you, only a little more awake, we would love to welcome you at Katong, Holland Village or Tras Street. When the time feels right, you can book your first eyelash extension appointment online and choose the outlet and time that suit you best.

About the author
The Lash Company Team, lash stylists at The Lash Company. We have specialised in eyelash extensions in Singapore since 2016, with outlets in Katong, Holland Village and Tras Street, and have been featured in VOGUE, TimeOut and Expat Living.