Everything You Need to Know About Eyelash Extensions

Eyelash extensions are a popular way to enhance the length, curl, fullness and thickness of natural eyelashes. Learn more about the different types of materials used for false eyelashes and how to apply them.

Everything You Need to Know About Eyelash Extensions

Eyelash extensions are a popular way to enhance the length, curl, fullness and thickness of natural eyelashes. They are available in a variety of materials, including mink, silk, synthetic, human hair and horse hair. Synthetic plastic eyelashes are the lowest grade and are usually made of a plastic fiber called PBT or polybutylene terephthalate. Silk eyelash extensions are one of the most popular types and are made of a synthetic material that is light and flexible.

Mink lashes are thinner than other types of eyelash extensions and are commonly used in volume sets because they are so lightweight. Hybrid lashes include classic individual eyelash extensions and mixed volume fans for the ultimate in fluffy, textured lashes. The main method for applying extensions is to use a cyanoacrylate adhesive to apply the extensions to the natural eyelash 1 or 2 mm away from the base of the natural eyelash, never making contact with the eyelid. Because humans lose natural eyelashes every day, eyelash extensions usually last between three and four weeks, and during that period, natural eyelashes start to fall out or thin out. To maintain a complete set of lashes, a recharge is required every two to three weeks or a partial set every four weeks. When choosing false eyelashes, it is important to select a type that does not damage your natural hair.

Synthetic plastic eyelashes are usually very heavy and look unnatural, so they are not a great option for most people. Silk lashes appear thicker, brighter and more dramatic than many other types of professional eyelash extensions. Mink lashes are tapered for most of the body of eyelash extensions, so each eyelash is up to 30% lighter than a silk eyelash extension. False eyelashes can also be done with sable hair, but they are very rare. Most people who wear false eyelashes today opt for the synthetic option because they are perfect, safe, require little maintenance and are produced without animal cruelty.

Estelle Bungart
Estelle Bungart

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