Custom-fitting Luxurious Lashes
Leanne Kirk applies Luxe Lashes. Photo courtesy Leanne Kirk
There’s something about long, luscious lashes, and many would say gorgeously full eyelashes are a key part of beauty. Yet, if you weren’t blessed with a naturally full set of long lashes or just want to enhance your look, no worries: Enter Leanne Kirk of Luxe Lashes by Leanne. As owner, lash stylist and esthetician, Kirk founded her business in 2007, and currently works out of The Spa at Trump in Waikiki.
“My main goal was not to settle for an average 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. spa position – I wanted to be my own boss. I took a lash extension workshop in 2007, and it just kind of struck me,” Kirk says. “I also had learned back then that lash extensions was (and still is) in its ‘baby stages,’ so I knew that there was potential for this part of the beauty industry to grow huge in popularity. From then on I did nothing but work on perfecting my craft.”
According to Kirk, her concept is to apply designer/luxe lash extensions to custom fit each individual’s appearance and lifestyle, and accentuate their natural beauty one lash at a time.
“Lash extensions simplify your day-to-day life,” Kirk explains. “Once you have them, you never have to worry about putting on mascara, strip lashes, and using a lash curler ever again. Extensions will create the illusion of mascara, and depending on the individual and how many natural lashes you have, it will instantly create length and volume.
“I’ve had clients who were considering an eye lift but didn’t feel the need to after receiving their first (lash) application.”
The initial application process for a set of lash extensions can range from two-and-a-half to three-and-a-half hours, and Kirk recommends returning every three weeks for a relash, which can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour-and-a-half, depending on the client’s natural lash cycle. The initial set costs anywhere from $300 to $400, and relashing (refills) starts at $75.
“Lash extensions are not hard to manage at all as long as you stay away from oil-based products around the eye, keep the eye area clean on a daily basis, and brush them a couple times a day,” Kirk explains.
Come this fall, Kirk will relocate her business to Waterfront Plaza, and one day hopes to branch out and expand Luxe Lashes by Leanne not just in Hawaii, but throughout the Mainland as well.
“I’m not about fast and cheap work; I’m all about taking my time to give my clients the best,” Kirk states. “My work consists of applying anywhere from 80 to 130-plus lashes per eye. It’s like getting the Lexus of lashes!”
For more information, visit leannekirk.com, email luxelashes@leannekirk.com, or call 382-9417 or 683-7466.
