Eyelash extensions growing in popularity in Fredericton

More and more women in Fredericton are forking over hundreds of dollars for a relatively new beauty treatment eyelash extensions.

The price ranges for $150 to $200 for eyelash extensions made of polyester, silk or even real mink fur that last for three or four weeks before needing to be "filled" for about $50.

Jen Mabie, a Fredericton realtor, has been getting the eyelash treatments for about two years. She said she doesn't mind the cost because it's the only extra beauty treatment she pays for regularly.

"I get them because it saves me time," says Mabie.

"I have a three-year-old and another one on the way and I feel like I'm always rushed to get out the door."

Jane Cummings was one of Fredericton's first specialists in the procedure. When she started almost four years ago she had fewer that 20 clients and a full-time job with the City of Fredericton.

Today, there are dozens of technicians and salons in the area offering the service andCummings has more than 50 clients and is on a leave of absence fromher city job so she can work full-time out of her home as an eyelash technician.

Cummingscharges $150 for a full set, which means one extension is applied on to every individual lash.She admits the initial fee is expensive, but theres a reason.

Its very labour intensive. Youre working with somebodys eyes, you have to be very verycareful," she said.

The procedure isn't for everyone.

We have to worry about if oureyebrows are tweezed and pluckedand if our skin looks goodand if our teeth are white, says Sorensen.

"Its just like one more thing to me that Ireally don'thave the time or energy or money to really put into.

Thats another 50$ bill every month if you really think of it," Sorensensays.

As little as my eyelashes are, Idon't think I'llbe taking the leap anytime soon."

It makes me kinda sad because I feel like they must feel a certain pressure in society that theyhave to look a certain way and almost be that perfect ideal women," she said.