The Three Types of Eyelash Extensions

Eyelash extensions are absolutely gorgeous and they can shape the way a person looks just by opening up the eye. So many people from all walks of life are starting to take notice of the beautiful benefits that come with custom extensions. Many clients will have questions about the types of extensions out there, not to mention the type of extensions that are right for them. 

Read on for a comprehensive guide on the types of lash extensions that are going to serve your clients best! When we know our stuff, we can help our clients learn too.

What Are Eyelash Extensions?

Most people who are beginners when it comes to the lash industry will at one point ask this question: what exactly are eyelash extensions? Eyelash extensions are a semipermanent way to make your lashes look fuller without using mascara or a lash curler.

Eyelash extensions are a totally safe way to enhance the look of natural lashes when properly administered by a certified and trained specialist, but it’s important to seek out a professional when getting lash extensions because you have to be properly trained in order to safely and effectively apply a set of perfect lashes.

Lash extensions are usually constructed of synthetic fibers that are adhered to the base of the eyelashes with a strong but safe glue. The longevity of lash extensions distinguishes them from other forms of artificial strip eyelashes available to consumers for at-home use. A full set of lashes can last up to six weeks before needing to be touched up or filled.

Eyelash extensions are individual lashes, unlike temporary fake eyelashes that connect to the lid in a single strip. They are applied one by one to your natural lashes. This procedure takes a long time to perform.

Each synthetic lash is delicately placed on individual natural lashes to produce a gorgeous and individualized look. Lash extensions are used to enhance the appearance of lashes by making them longer, fuller, and darker.

The Three Main Types of Eyelash Extensions

When it comes to lash extensions, there are three main types: mink, silk, and synthetic. Those who have gone through lash training, or those who are savvy customers, will have heard these terms before, but they can be a bit confusing. Let’s break it all down.

Mink Lash Extensions

Mink lash extensions are not necessarily what they seem to be based on the name. Most “mink” lashes are not actually made from real mink fur! Real mink lashes and faux mink lashes are the two varieties. There are a number of reasons why using real mink lashes as a lash entrepreneur is a bad choice.

The majority of fur products, including lashes, are derived from fur farms. This is where the majority of the world's fur comes from. Animals are kept in cages and isolated from their natural environments at fur farms, as one might assume. Minks, in particular, are semi-aquatic species that require access to water for swimming.

Some brands may state that their mink are "brushed" to obtain their fur and that the animals are not killed for the sake of beauty. Even if this were true (and there is very little evidence to support it), it would still not be totally cruelty-free.  

Luckily, most lash artists nowadays do not actually use real mink. When you see “mink” lashes at a modern lash salon, it most likely means synthetic lashes that have a certain style attributed to the mink look. 

Mink lashes have the advantage of having a more natural appearance. A professional lash technician can easily replicate the look of mink with a high-quality synthetic lash, with no risk of animal cruelty or misleading the customer. 

Mink lashes often have a glossy or semi-matte appearance, but also tend to look very natural. People tend to like mink lashes because they have a plush look. Mink-style lashes are longer, softer, and finer than some other types of lash extensions.

Silk Lash Extensions

The term "silk" is actually a bit of a misnomer. Silk lashes may appear to be sophisticated and attractive, but they are not really composed of silk. Real silk comes from a silkworm's cocoon and would not be able to hold a curl effectively 

Some lash companies claim that their lashes are "100% silk," although this isn't exactly correct. These so-called silk lashes are actually synthetics that have been dyed a different color. Selling synthetic materials and marketing them as silk is a little bit dishonest, which is why most modern lash specialists use full synthetic lashes and simply use appropriate terms.

Despite this misnomer, “silk” lashes are beautiful! Silk eyelash extensions are semi-matte in appearance. Because these extensions are thicker and have more space between lashes, they will give you a dramatic look.

Because this type of eyelash is also composed of synthetic material, you won't have to worry about using an animal lash on your eyes. The material is a polyester-based synthetic fiber that is extremely durable and has a natural appearance.

Synthetic Lash Extensions

Okay, so if you’ve been paying attention, you’ll notice that almost all lash extensions are actually some form of synthetic. The term synthetic doesn’t sound very glamorous, but in truth, it is the best and most durable material for lash extensions.

The beauty of synthetic extensions is that they are extremely versatile. They can be made to suit the needs of the client perfectly. 

Most commonly, synthetic extensions are favored by those who want a full, voluminous, dramatic look. Different companies may have different names for their synthetic extensions. For a great example of some beautiful synthetic lashes, check out these classic style lash extensions!

Different Levels of Lash Curl

Even within the three different main styles of lash extensions, there is more to think about. Lash professionals all over the world know that it takes a lot more work to put together a customized set of lashes than most people realize.

Not only do you need to figure out what look a client is actually going for, but you also need to be knowledgeable about how to create that look. One way to customize a set of lash extensions is by being thoughtful about the curl level and the length.

Extensions can be worn in a variety of styles, including natural, cat-eye, and wispy. Does your client have small eyes and wish to make them look bigger? Perhaps they have deep-set eyes and want them to stand out more. 

Your client may not be able to fully articulate what it is that they want, so it’s sometimes helpful to have graphics and photos up in the salon that they can refer to. It’s also helpful to tell new clients to bring a picture so that you can get a full idea of what it is that they are trying to achieve. 

When it comes to curliness, most salons provide at least three curl patterns: J curl (straight lashes), D curl (totally curved lashes), and C curl, which is the happy medium between a D and J curl.

Curl patterns are usually more varied in more specialized lash salons. You can also change the thickness and length, which normally runs from seven millimeters for a more subtle effect to 15 millimeters for a bold effect (think spider lashes you can see from a profile). 

How Should You Prep New Clients for Appointments?

If you’re taking on a new client who has never been to you before, or even someone who has never had lash extensions before, the consultation is the most important step that you cannot skip.

Many lash artists like to do an initial consultation over the phone, or even over text or a Zoom call! This can allow you as the lash pro to be completely ready for the appointment. It’s an extra step, but it might just set you apart from the crowd of lash artists in your area. 

Clients should be clear that they should come to their appointments with no makeup on their eyes (preferably none on their faces at all). They will need to know that they should set aside a good chunk of time and not be in a rush. That initial appointment will probably take an hour or two, plus any extra consultation time if needed. 

There’s a Lash Type for Everyone

Whether your clients opt for mink, synthetic, or silk lashes, you can be confident in knowing that you will be able to provide them with the lashes they desire. The more choices you offer, the more appeal you will have to your clients. Straight, curled, cat’s eye, wispy, or something else altogether. Have fun and keep lashing out! 

Sources:

Types Of Eyelash Extensions: Which Eyelash Extensions Are best? | Makeup

Everything You Need to Know About Eyelash Extensions | The Cut

Eyelash Extensions Pros and Cons: What to Know Before You Get Them | Healthline