Mascara and holidays don’t mix: from long journeys to breezy beaches and swimming pool dips, even the hardiest of waterproof formulations will struggle to see you through to sundowner time in hot, sweaty climates. Back in the day I favoured extensions for an always-made-up look, but low maintenance they most certainly weren’t, and once the false lashes started to drop out, the lookwas anything but natural. So I’m excited to try something that will work to enhance what’s already there, and has the potential to last up to six weeks. And given that the treatment is being offered at superfacialist Vaishaly’s famous Marylebone clinic, I know I’ll be in safe hands. During an LVL (aka length, volume, lift) treatment, lashes are straightened rather than curled, to give a longer, more lifted look. Applied with a lash tint, I’m told that the results should mean I can leave the mascara and curlers at home. I’m settled on to a bed and instructed to close my eyes. Silicone shields are applied to my eyelids and my lashes are combed out and attached with glue before solutions are applied, first to alter the shape and texture of the hairs, then to set them in place. Finally, the tint is applied. It takes 45 minutes and I find the process quite enjoyable – the bed is comfortable, the music is soft and I’ve nothing to do but lie back and relax. The results are instant (though I’m instructed not to get my lashes wet for at least 24 hours) and jaw dropping. I’ve never received so many compliments as I do over the course of the next few days. I’m definitely converted.
LVL and eyelash tint, £100. 51 Paddington Street, W1U (020 7224 6088; vaishaly.com)