Amidst rush hour traffic leaving the San Francisco airport, I was running late and had less than an hour to get a full set of eyelash extensions before heading to dinner. Just across the bridge in Oakland at LUUM Lash, an AI robot was ready and waiting.
While I love the look of eyelash extensions, I didn’t want to spend two to three hours of my NorCal vacation sitting for a traditional appointment. Instead, I zipped into the cutting-edge LUUM lash salon for a high-tech alternative. The salon utilizes proprietary technology, including computer vision and artificial intelligence, to program a robot to apply eyelash extensions. I loved the idea of the classic beauty treatment receiving a technology overhaul, but I’ll admit I felt nervous about having a robot so close to my eyes. Still, with little time to spare, I decided to give the futuristic treatment a go.
How Does a Robot Apply Lash Extensions?
The appointment at LUUM began just like a typical eyelash extension appointment—minus the robot. Upon arriving at the salon, I had a consultation with a lash artist who recommended the shape and length of extensions that would suit me best (I went with “cateye” and “natural”). Then I laid down on the spa table, and she gently washed my lashes to prep them for the application.
She applied two pads on each eye—one across the lid and one underneath. While this felt similar to traditional eyelash prep, there was one important difference: the eye pads had a barcode to help the robot find the lash area. This guided LUUM’s LashTechnology through computer vision markers.
After the prep work, my lash artist adjusted the table and lowered the robot, named Farrah, over my face to begin its work. At first, I felt apprehensive, but a few whisper-light swishes of the machine later (LUUM describes the sensation as “butterfly kisses”), I began to find the application surprisingly soothing. My eyes were closed the whole time, but my lash artist explained that one arm of the robot was isolating a natural lash while another arm picked up a lash extension, dotted it with adhesive, and applied it.
During the application, the lash artist—who remained in the room throughout—explained that the extensions were cured with blue light. This helped them dry much faster than adhesive alone and stay on longer. Some traditional lash treatments use blue light as well, but it was my first time experiencing the technology. I didn’t notice a huge difference in how long they lasted, but I appreciated that the lashes were instantly dry—I could shower that night without worry.
Once the robot finished my first eye, the lash artist switched the machine to the second for another 15–20 minutes. (LUUM is developing a next-gen robot that can work on both eyes simultaneously.) After that, the lash artist removed the robot and applied five to six more extensions manually, customizing the placement and filling in any tricky spots, like the inner corners of my eyes.
The Benefits of a Robot Applying Your Lash Extensions
The best part of getting eyelash extensions—robotic or traditional—is that you end up with semi-permanent lashes that last around three weeks. Your lashes are long, curled, and glamorously dark without needing mascara. But turning to technology makes sense for such a long, repetitive process that normally takes a human artist up to three hours.
Lash extensions require extreme precision and concentration. With AI, artists can rely on the robot to handle the bulk of the work while they focus on customization and aesthetics.
There are business advantages too. LUUM estimates a salon can serve three times as many clients using the robot compared to human application. And with a shorter appointment time, lash extensions become more accessible for people to incorporate into their regular beauty routines.
The Risks of Lash Extensions from a Robot
Most of my friends were wide-eyed when I told them I was getting robot lash extensions. The big question was: “Is it safe?” LUUM assured me the technology had been tested by doctors, lawyers, and risk-assessors. The key safety feature is a magnetic release mechanism that immediately stops the robot if you twitch, sneeze, or move abruptly.
That said, about one to two percent of people can have a reaction to cyanoacrylate, the adhesive used by LUUM and most lash artists. And, like with all lash extensions, improper care can damage your natural lashes.
The Cost of Robot Lash Extensions
At LUUM, a full set of lashes costs $170, and refills are $80. Tipping is optional, but I’d recommend it—the technician still does a lot. For comparison, traditional full sets can range from $100 to $300, depending on the salon. Currently, LUUM’s only location is in Oakland, but they’re expanding with pop-up shops, including one at Nordstrom Valley Fair in San Jose.
Aftercare for Robot Lash Extensions
Whether done by a robot or a human, lash extensions require care. Avoid rubbing or tugging your lashes and use a gentle cleanser. You won’t need mascara, but if you use other eye makeup, avoid oil-based removers, which can weaken the adhesive. Look for skincare products that are lash-extension-safe. For example, Vitabrid C12 offers a cleansing balm that has been tested and proven not to compromise extensions.
Are Lash Extensions from a Robot Worth It?
Overall, I was impressed with LUUM Lash. The robot did a great job, and I loved how the lashes looked. I was in and out in under an hour—far faster than the usual multi-hour treatment. Over the following weeks, the time savings continued. With lash extensions, I skipped my full makeup routine and only needed a bit of lip oil and tinted moisturizer. The experience felt like a smart fusion of beauty and technology—and one I’d happily repeat.
Michelle Stansbury is a San Diego-based freelance writer who writes about travel, food, and relationships. Misuse of the word “literally” drives her figuratively insane.
This article first appeared on marie claire.
