How to Choose the Best Eyelash Extensions

Are you unhappy with your eyelashes or just looking to add a bit of flair to your look? You may have thought about getting eyelash extensions, but perhaps you’re not sure if it’s the right choice for you. 

Eyelash extensions come in various forms and are used to accomplish many different beauty goals, including simplifying your beauty routine or creating an impossible-to-hide dramatic look. You may have seen a friend with their beautiful lashes and wondered how they have managed that look, how they may have been applied, or what type of styles there are.

What Are Eyelash Extensions?

Don’t confuse eyelash extensions with fake lashes. They are not the same. Eyelash extensions are applied with a semi-permanent adhesive—the adhesive latches onto individual natural lashes and each is applied by a professional. Typically, eyelash extensions are applied to the upper lash line.

Lash extensions can be applied either individually or in clusters and come in different sets. You may want a complete set, which means that the extensions will be glued to all of your lashes. Or you can decide to get a partial set where they will be attached to lashes located in the middle and outside of your lash line. With the beauty industry constantly evolving, there are a wide variety of options that are all customizable.

What To Consider When Thinking About Getting Eyelash Extensions

When you are doing your research and looking into what you want for your eyelash extensions, there are many things you should consider. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you are thinking about getting extensions:

  • Your eye color
  • What type of eyelid do you have
  • The size of your eye
  • The shape of your eye
  • All the qualities of your natural eyelashes — volume, length, curl, color
  • If you have any allergies or sensitivities
  • Are you prepared for return visits for upkeep?

Lash Extension Material

When you go to the salon, you will notice that they will typically ask you what kind of material you want for your lashes. It may be surprising, but there are a few different choices that you can choose from. It is based on your budget and what you want to achieve with your look. 

Mink Lashes

Typically, when you ask for mink lashes, it means that they come from the tail of a Chinese or Siberian mink. Mink eyelashes will give you a more natural look and mimic natural lashes the most. It naturally mimics natural lashes due to how fluffy and lightweight they are. One downside, if you have a sensitivity or allergy to fur, then consider using an alternative to mink. Usually, minks are the most expensive eyelash material.

Faux Mink Lashes

On the bright side, if you want to achieve that natural look of mink lashes but decide against them, you have another option. Due to the innovation of beauty, manufacturers have captured the essence of the fluttery, featherweight that real minks lashes offer with none of the guilt.

Silk Lashes

This type of lash may be called silk, however, they are not made from genuine silk. Silk lashes are mid-weight for most people and may not be as comfortable as the faux mink or mink options. The silk lashes tend to be chosen for special occasions with their dramatic look and texture, but may not be everyone’s first choice for everyday wear.

Synthetic Lashes

Synthetic lashes are by far the most dramatic eyelash extensions. They are what you go for when you want that bold, glamorous look. These lashes don’t have any real fur in them, so they are usually a less expensive option as well. 

Lash Length

When you choose the length of your eyelashes, you will want to make sure that they are comfortable and that they won’t damage any of your natural eyelashes. If the lash extensions are too heavy for your eye, then it can prevent lash follicles from growing new and healthy lashes. A good rule of thumb that your lash stylist will know is that the extension should only be 3mm to 5mm longer than your natural lashes.

The diameter should be included when picking out lash extensions. They should be as close to the diameter as your natural lashes as possible. For a more drastic look, you can look at getting a thicker diameter. If you are looking for a more dramatic look, consider lash extensions with a slightly thinner diameter.

Lash Volume 

The volume of lash extensions is typically determined by the number of lash extensions in a cluster. You will often see the volume of lash extensions being a number that is followed by the letter D. For example, 3D means that there will be three individual lashes clustered together to make a fan. If you are looking for a lighter, natural look, 2D to 4D will achieve just that. On the contrary, if you want something more dramatic and voluminous, go for the 4D to 8D range.

Lash Curl

At salons, you will find many different curl styles that you can choose from. There is a B-curl, C-curl, D-curl, and L+ curl. Here are what each of these curls means:

  • B-Curl.  This is the most natural-looking curl. It is very subtle, and people usually get them when straighter lashes require a little bit of lifting.
  • C-Curl. This curl is universally used to fit most eye shapes, making it a very popular curl. If you tend to have thinner eyelashes and want them to appear fuller, then this is the perfect curl for you.
  • D-Curl.  The D-curl is usually used when someone wants to be able to achieve a dramatic look. This curl is also best if you have a natural curl to your lashes.
  • L + Curl. This curl will start flat at the base. Then it will lift upwards. This curl is good for anyone who has a hooded eye or lashes that point downward.

Dream Lashes at Dulce Lash and Skin

Those luscious lashes you’ve been waiting for so long are just a simple appointment away with Dulce Lash and Skin

From basic skin care and elegant, beautiful lashes to medspa procedures and gentle body waxing, Dulce Lash and Skin keeps your skin glowing from head to toe. With three convenient locations in Seattle, Bellevue, and Mercer Island and a full bevvy of skincare services, our highly skilled master aestheticians will guide you through a personalized plan to address all your skincare needs. 

Drop us a line for more information or to call and book your appointment today!