Different Lengths Of Eyelash Extensions: The Ultimate Guide
Eyelash extensions have become a popular beauty treatment in recent years, especially for those with short lashes. In fact, more and more people are opting for longer, fuller lashes.
The lash extension process involves a professional lash artist attaching individual synthetic lashes to natural lashes using a special adhesive.
There are different types of lashes available and they can all vary in length, width, and curl.
With so many different lengths of eyelash extensions available, it’s important to choose the right lashes to achieve your desired look.
What are eyelash extensions?
Eyelash extensions are synthetic lashes that are attached to natural lashes using a special adhesive. They can be customized in terms of length, thickness, and style to enhance the appearance of natural lashes.
Types of eyelash extensions
There are four types of eyelash extensions that fall into two main categories: synthetic lashes and mink lashes.
Synthetic extensions are made from man-made materials and are more affordable than mink extensions made from mink animals’ fur.
Mink extensions are considered to be softer and more natural-looking than synthetic extensions, but they are also more expensive.
You should discuss your options with your certified lash stylist and choose an option that’s best for the look you want and your budget.
- PBT fibre lashes: These are the most affordable and most common types of lash extensions. They come in various lengths, thicknesses, and curls. And while they’re durable and hold their shape well, they do have a more artificial look and feel to them.
- Silk lashes: Contrary to their name, silk lashes aren’t actually made with silk. They’re made from Polybutylene Terephthalate, which is the same material faux minx lashes are made from. The difference is silk lashes have a featherly, more natural look and a matte finish.
- Faux minx lashes: Faux minx lashes have a tapered design that makes them noticeably thinner than other lash extension types. They are normally applied in sets to add volume to your lashes.
- Minx lashes: Minx lashes are the oldest type of lash extensions. They aren’t curly though, so they have to be curled pre-application. Then, you have to continue to curl them throughout their lifespan.
Lash length options
While there are many different lengths of eyelash extensions, they typically ranging from 6mm to 18mm.
The most popular eyelash extension lengths are:
- Short (6 mm to 8 mm): These are the shortest length options and provide a natural look for those who want a subtle enhancement to their lashes.
- Medium (10 mm to 12 mm): These are the most popular length options and provide a noticeable enhancement to lashes.
- Long (14 mm to 18 mm): If you prefer long lashes, 14-18 is the way to go. These are the longest-length options and provide a dramatic enhancement to lashes.
Your lash technician can help you choose the right length for the look you want.
They’ll also help you decide if you want a full set of lashes, hybrid lashes, or if you just need some individual lashes.
However, generally speaking, for a natural look or if you want volume eyelash extensions, you want to match the length of your extensions to that of your eyelashes or make sure they are slightly longer.
You shouldn’t choose a lash length more than two to three millimeters longer than your natural lashes.
How to measure natural lashes
Before choosing the length of eyelash extensions, measuring the natural lashes is important. This will help determine the appropriate length of the extensions to use.
To measure natural lashes, use a flexible measuring tape to measure from the base of the lash line to the tip of the longest lash.
This might be easier if you hold a piece of white paper under your lashes and use a pencil to mark the spot where the tip of your lashes touch.
Then, use the measuring tape to measure from the edge of the paper to the mark.
What’s the perfect lash length?
Generally, the 8 mm and 12 mm length lashes are the most popular options because they tend to give wearers a more natural look.
However, only some people want subtle lashes.
- Choose 8 mm to 10 mm lashes if you want a subtle, natural appearance.
- Choose 10 mm to 12 mm lashes if you want a natural look that’s slightly more dramatic.
- Choose 12+ mm lashes if you want a dramatic effect. These typically aren’t ideal for everyday wear, but are a good option for special occasions.
Lash curl options
In addition to length, you need to choose a type of curl. The amount of curl is labeled using letters instead of numbers.
While there are many different curls, here are some of the more popular options:
- B curl lashes have the least curl. They’re almost straight. Often they’re used to create a fuller, natural look for people with straight lashes.
- C curl lashes have a very slight curl. They’re suitable for someone who has naturally straight lashes and wants to maintain more of a natural look.
- CC curl lashes are similar to C-curl lashes. However, they have a slightly more dramatic curl.
- D curl lashes provide a more dramatic curl. This makes them a good option for people with straight or slightly curled lashes who are looking for a more dramatic look. C and CC curl lashes are the most popular curls.
- J curl lash extensions are much straighter. They mostly curl at the tip.
- L curl lashes have a dramatic curl. They are straight at the base, making them ideal for people who have straight or downward lashes and a dramatic curl.
- M curl lashes also have a dramatic curl and a straight base. But instead of an abrupt curve, M-curl lashes have a more gradual curve. These lashes are suitable for most people. However, they don’t work well on people who have really curly natural eyelashes.
- U curl lashes are comparable to c and l curls but aren’t quite as bold.
It’s great for those who like to look like they have natural makeup on without actually having to put on eye makeup.
Lash extension thickness options
Want volume lashes? Choosing the right thickness helps you achieve the amount of lash volume you want.
If you want more dramatic lashes, 0.10 to 0.15 millimeters thick is typically the ideal thickness. However, for more classic lashes with thickness between 0.07 and 0.10 millimeters thick.
Here are the sizes available:
- 0.03 mm-thick lashes
- 0.05 mm-thick lashes
- 0.07 mm-thick lashes
- 0.10 mm-thick lashes
- 0.12 mm-thick lashes
- 0.15 mm-thick lashes
- 0.18 mm-thick lashes
- 0.20 mm-thick lashes
- 0.25 mm-thick lashes
To put the sizes in perspective, a 0.12mm lash is typically a good match for most natural lashes. Anything that measures more than that would likely be thicker than your eyelashes.
Anything measuring smaller than that is most likely finer than your natural lashes, which means your lash tech would probably need to attach multiple to one lash to get the right thickness.
These types of lashes are ideal for people with sparse lashes because they help fill in any gaps.
Factors to consider when choosing your lash extensions
When choosing the length of eyelash extensions, there are several factors to consider:
- Eye shape: Different eye shapes may require different length options. For example, those with round eyes may benefit from longer lengths to create a more elongated appearance while someone with almond eyes may find a different length that works better for them.
- Face shape: The length of the extensions should complement the shape of the face. For example, those with a heart-shaped face may benefit from longer lashes on the outer edges to balance out the face.
- Natural lash length: The length of the extensions should be appropriate for the length of the natural lashes. Using extensions that are too long can damage natural lashes.
- Personal preference: Ultimately, the length of the extensions should be based on personal preference and desired look.
- Wearing glasses: If you wear glasses, you don’t want your lashes constantly rubbing against the inside of the glass. Be sure to choose a length, thickness, and curl that won’t bother you with or without your glasses.
Eyelash extension aftercare
Proper aftercare is essential to maintaining the longevity and appearance of eyelash extensions. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind for best results:
Dos:
- Gently brush lashes with a spoolie brush to prevent tangling
- Use oil-free makeup remover to avoid damaging the adhesive
- Clean lashes with a lash-specific cleanser
- Be gentle when washing the face, and avoid rubbing the eyes
- Protect lashes while sleeping by using a silk or satin pillowcase
Don’ts:
- Don’t use oil-based products on or near lashes as they can weaken the adhesive
- Don’t use mascara on lash extensions, as it can cause clumping and damage to the extensions
- Don’t use an eyelash curler on lash extensions, as it can damage both the extensions and natural lashes
- Don’t rub or tug at the lashes – it can cause premature shedding
Tips for maintaining lash extensions
To maintain the appearance and longevity of lash extensions, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Avoid exposing lashes to excessive heat, steam, or water for the first 24 hours after application
- Avoid swimming or getting lashes wet for the first 24 to 48 hours after application
- Refrain from using saunas or steam rooms for the first 48 hours after application
- Avoid touching or rubbing the lashes as much as possible
- Book regular touch-up appointments with a lash technician to maintain the appearance of the extensions
Recommended products for lash extension care
Using lash-specific products can help maintain the appearance and health of eyelash extensions. Here are some recommended products to consider:
- Lash cleanser: A gentle lash cleanser can remove dirt and oil buildup without damaging the extensions
- Lash serum: A lash serum can promote lash growth and keep natural lashes healthy
- Lash coating: A lash coating can protect the extensions from environmental factors and extend their life
FAQs
What length of eyelash extensions should I get?
Choosing the length of eyelash extensions depends on various factors, including the shape of your eyes, the shape of your face, and the length of your natural lashes.
It’s best to consult with a trained lash technician who can assess your natural lashes and recommend a suitable length based on your desired look and other factors.
What size lash extensions look most natural?
The size of lash extensions that look most natural can vary depending on the individual’s natural lash length and the desired look.
In general, shorter lash extensions (around 6mm to 8mm) tend to look the most natural, blending in with the natural lashes and creating a subtle enhancement.
What style of lash extensions make your eyes look bigger?
The right style of lash extensions can make your eyes look bigger by enhancing their shape and opening up the eye area. Here are some lash extension styles that can achieve this effect:
- Cat eye: This style involves longer extensions on the outer corners of the eyes, which creates a winged-out effect that lifts and elongates the eyes.
- Doll eye: This style involves using longer extensions in the lash line’s center, creating a wide-eyed, doe-like look.
- Open eye: This style involves using shorter extensions towards the inner corner of the eyes and gradually increasing in length towards the outer corner. This creates a natural-looking, open-eyed effect.
- Dramatic curl: Using a curled lash extension can help lift and open up the eyes, creating the appearance of bigger eyes.
Ultimately, choosing the right length of eyelash extensions is crucial to achieving the desired look and maintaining the health of natural lashes.
By considering factors such as face shape, eye shape, natural lash length, and personal preference, you can choose the appropriate length of extensions to enhance your eyes and achieve the look you desire.
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