Eyelash extensions are becoming more and more popular. Women around the world go crazy about them. And we can only expect the trend to continue to rise in popularity. What are the different types of eyelash extensions? How to choose the one that is suitable for you? We hope to answer all of your questions.
What Are Eyelash Extensions?
To better understand different types of eyelash extensions, we have to talk about what are eyelash extensions.
Simply put, they are silk, mink, or lightweight synthetic lashes that are applied directly to natural lashes. We apply extensions using a semi-permanent adhesive. They can be applied by a professional lash artist, or by yourself at home.
They can be applied either in clusters or fans or individually. When using extensions, especially for the first time, you might fear having unnatural results. But do not worry, they look amazing.
How Long Do Lash Extensions Last?
As you will see later on, there are different types of eyelash extensions. Generally speaking, classic lashes are great for everyday lashes and they save you from putting mascara on daily.
How long do they last? Well, as a general rule of thumb, lash professionals recommend getting them infilled every two to three weeks.
It depends on the natural growth cycle which is different from one person to another. Some would say that extensions can last up to six weeks on natural lashes.
How Do You Choose The Right Ones?
Eyelash extensions come in different materials, length, volume, and curls. As we said before, there are many different types of eyelash extensions. So, to choose the ones that are best for you, you must look at all the factors. Let’s break them down one by one.
Eyelash Extension Length
Choosing the wrong length can and will damage your natural lashes. If you choose a longer length, your lashes might be too heavy and prevent your hair follicles from growing healthy lashes. Not to mention, the wrong length makes them look creepy.
The general rule of thumb is that your lash extensions should be 3 to 5 mm longer than your natural lashes.
As for the diameter, it should be as close as possible to the diameter of your natural lashes. The thicker the diameter, the more dramatic look you will get.
Eyelash Extension Volume
Before 2010, volume lashes were not as popular. But since 2010, women all around the world started going for more than just length and curl. How do you achieve volume? By applying multiple extensions to a single lash.
Yet, each extension is lighter and thinner than the previous one. Volume lashes are defined by the number of individual lash extensions clustered together into a fan.
Curl Type
Now we can talk about different types of eyelash extensions, namely, different lash extension curls. There are several types, including B-curl, C-curl, D-curl, and L+ Curl. Here is a breakdown of each.
- The B curl gives you the most natural looking-curl, suitable for women with straight lashes
- C Curl fits all eye types, making it the most popular curl. And if you have natural lashes that you want to appear more open and fuller, the C-curl is the best
- The D curl is perfect for women who want to achieve a dramatic look or they have naturally curly lashes. This one resembles a semicircle
- The last one, the L+ curl has a flat base and then lifts upwards. It is best for women with single eyelids, hooded eyes, and lashes pointing downward
Factors To Consider
When you want to find out which lash extensions are best for you, there is no one-fit-all type. Like any other eye product, you have to find what works best for you. Here are some factors you need to consider when going for a stunning and natural look.
- Size of your eyes, small, medium, or large
- Orientation of your eyes, be it deep-set, wide-set, or close-set
- Allergies or sensitivities to certain materials
- Tolerance for upkeep
- Color of your eyes
- Your natural lashes and their length, volume, color, and curl
- Your eye shape, be it round, almond, or downturned
- Type of your eyelids
Different Types Of Materials
Not only there are different types of eyelash extensions, but there are also different types of materials as well. Let’s take a look.
Mink Eyelash Extensions
These extensions come from mink’s fur, the animal. Minks are dark-colored and semiaquatic carnivorous mammals. Eyelash brands claim to brush these minks while they are alive. In the past few years, the lash industry also came up with a better alternative, faux mink lashes. They look even prettier than the original mink lashes.
The mink lash extensions are very thin, look natural and feel like your own, they provide a glossier look, are resistant and will last longer, look more voluminous, and come in different shapes and forms. They are best when you want a more dramatic look.
The downside is that depending on the salon, they can be flatter than other types of eyelash extensions, especially after getting wet.
The good news is you can always get a temporary fake mink eyelash extension, just so you check how they look on you.
Silk Eyelash Extensions
These also give you a dramatic look because they are thicker and have more space between lashes. The silk eyelash extensions are glossy extensions that are semi-matte.
You will get a discreet look, but still with some boldness on the eyes. The synthetic fiber is quite durable and looks natural. Derived from polyester, it is gentle on the eyes and doesn’t cause redness or eye irritation.
The silk false lash extensions are the most affordable. And because silk lashes are thicker, they are more noticeable. The downside is they are quite heavy and work only on people with strong natural lashes.
Sable Eyelashes
The last type you can try is sable eyelashes. They are made out of sable fur, an animal found in Siberia and Russia. These lashes are very thin and soft. The downside is they are not cruelty-free. So, if you are high on animal protection, sable eyelashes might not be for you.
Types Of Eyelash Application
When you choose the best lash extension for your eyes, it is time to think about the type of application. There are three main types of application, the classic, the hybrid, and the volume application.
The classic eyelash extension is simple and look very natural. They take one hour and thirty minutes to be installed. Sometimes, the installation might take longer. It is a challenging technique that requires concentration and high attention to detail.
Volume eyelash extension is when you have 3 to 5 individual lashes attached to one natural lash. They add boldness and volume to your look. The baseline is dark and thick, which gives the impression you are wearing eyeliner.
As you can assume, the hybrid lashes are a combination of the two.
How To Take Care Of Eyelash Extensions?
If you want your false lash to last longer, you must take good care of them. Considering they make you pop, it is important to manage to keep them on as long as possible. Here are some things you absolutely have to consider:
- Avoid water, sweat, and hot tubs within the first 48 hours of lash installation
- You can wash your face, but avoid water coming into contact with the eye area for 48 hours
- Avoid rubbing your eyes for the first 48 hours when the glue has not yet set
- Avoid eye makeup for 48 hours. You already have extensions that make your eyes pop, so there is no need for makeup
- Use a lash brush or a spoolie to brush them in the morning
- Use oil-free makeup removers
- Do not use cotton balls, makeup wipes, and cotton pads to clean extensions since they can damage them
- Use gel-based shampoo to clean the lashes without rubbing or pulling them
