Ink & Lash Shop provides specialized beauty services

Jennifer McCahill wants to help women - and men - look and feel their best.

Through her new business, Ink & Lash Shop in Millsboro, she helps them do just that.

“I really fell into the business,” she said. “I originally wanted to be a physical therapist, but the patients were never happy to see me because I’d have to make them work.”

McCahill left physical therapy school and then worked as a licensed massage therapist for nine years.

“It was hard on my body,” she said. “I knew I’d have to change careers.”

So, she attended the Delaware Learning Institute of Cosmetology in Dagsboro, where she found her niche. McCahill worked as a cosmetologist in a Lewes spa before opening Ink & Lash Shop in July.

“I was ready to do my own thing and provide a great service to men and women,” she said.

Ink & Lash Shop provides permanent cosmetics, lash extensions and waxing services. McCahil is also certified to provide 3D areola reconstruction for women who have had mastectomies.

“When women have breast cancer, many times the breast must be removed and then reconstructed by a plastic surgeon using skin grafts or implants,” she said. “They are left without an areola or nipple unless they’re created during surgery.”

McCahill will tattoo a 3D areola on the breast to best resemble the real thing. She says most insurances will cover some, if not all, of the procedure, and she will work with patients and their insurance companies to determine coverage.

McCahill says many women who find it harder to apply makeup as their eyesight fades, or who have lost eyebrows due to cancer, thyroid or other health issues, should consider permanent cosmetics.

“It gives them confidence and happiness to look in the mirror and see who they used to see,” she said. “And that’s very satisfying to me, too.”

Permanent cosmetics include powder and shaded brows, microbladed brows, eyeliner enhancement, smoky eyeliner, and lip liner and full lip enhancement.

“It’s all customized depending on each person’s facial structure, skin tone and preference,” she said.

McCahill says permanent cosmetics are tattoos, and all needles and other supplies are disposed of after each use. While some people may have more sensitive skin than others, she said the discomfort is minimal.

“I actually had someone fall asleep,” she said. “She was snoring and I had to wake her up!”

Those seeking longer eyelashes may choose classic, hybrid, volume or color-enhanced lash extensions. McCahill also provides body-hair waxes.

McCahill offers free consultations to explain all options and help clients choose services best suited to their needs.

Ink & Lash Shop is at 29786 John J. Williams Highway in Millsboro across from Village Green. Book appointments online at vagaro.com/inkandlashshop or call 302-440-5855.