Choosing the best eyelash extensions for you shouldn’t be as confusing as it seems to be. Truly!

In this article, I’ll answer one of the most asked questions: “What eyelash extensions should I get?” So that you can get the best eyelash extensions that suit your eye and face shape and look natural on you. 

If you’re a beginner, read until the end to know my best recommendation for you. Let’s go!

Types of Eyelash Extensions

Eyelash extensions can vary greatly in terms of material, style, and application technique. Below is a detailed breakdown of the types of eyelash extensions to help guide your choice.

 

Materials Used for Eyelash Extensions

Material	Description	Appearance	Durability	Cost
Synthetic	Made from a polished acrylic material, providing a glossy and dramatic look.	Shiny and thicker in appearance.	Less flexible, can feel heavier.	Most affordable.
Silk	Made from a synthetic silk protein, offering a softer touch than synthetic lashes.	Softer and more natural than synthetic.	Lighter on the eyes, more comfortable.	Mid-range price.
Mink	Made from real mink fur, known for its natural quality and lightweight feel.	Very natural, fine, and feathery.	Lightweight and comfortable.	Most expensive and requires maintenance.

 

Styles of Eyelash Extensions

 

Classic Eyelash Extensions

• Application: One extension is applied to one natural lash (1:1 ratio).
• Look: Enhances the natural lash line, providing a subtle and natural enhancement.
• Best for: Those looking for a natural look or those with already thick lashes.

Volume Eyelash Extensions

• Application: Multiple finer extensions are applied to one natural lash (2D-6D, where D stands for dimension).
• Look: Creates a fuller, fluffier lash line.
• Best for: Those seeking a more glamorous and voluminous look.

 

Hybrid Eyelash Extensions

• Application: A mix of classic and volume techniques (70-30 ratio).
• Look: A balanced, wispy look that is neither too sparse nor too full.
• Best for: Those who want a fuller look than classic but more natural than full volume.

 

Mega Volume Eyelash Extensions

• Application: An advanced volume technique where 7-16 fine extensions are applied to one natural lash.
• Look: A very dramatic and dense lash line.
• Best for: Those desiring a bold, high impact look for special occasions or for those who can carry off an ultra-glamorous style.

 

When choosing eyelash extensions, it’s important to consider not only the look you desire but also the health of your natural lashes. Heavier extensions can potentially damage natural lashes if they are not strong enough to support the weight. Always consult with a professional lash technician to determine the best option for your lash type and lifestyle.

 

Choosing Extensions Based on Eye Shape

 

Selecting the right eyelash extensions based on eye shape is crucial for achieving a flattering look that enhances your natural features. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best eyelash extensions for different eye shapes:

 

Almond Eyes

 

• Characteristics: Almond eyes are characterized by their oval shape with slightly pointed ends.
• Recommended Styles: Virtually any style suits almond eyes, from natural to dramatic looks.
• Styling Tips: Length concentrated toward the centre can lift the eyes. Transitioning to a stronger curl at the outer third of the eye can enhance the shape.

Round Eyes

 

• Characteristics: Round eyes are often large and can appear more open and brighter.
• Recommended Style: Cat-eye styles elongate the eye and add a sultry effect.
• Styling Tips: Maximizing length beyond the outside edge of the iris draws attention outward. Avoid strong curls that blend into the lid, which can look unnatural.

 

Hooded Eyes

 

• Characteristic: Hooded eyes have a fold of skin that droops over the crease, making the lid less visible.
• Recommended Styles: Styles that lift and open the eyes, like cat-eye or winged extensions.
• Styling Tips: Use curls that extend past the hood of the lid before curling up. Specialized curls like L+ or M can provide a stronger bond and increase comfort.

 Monolid Eyes

 

• Characteristics: Monolid eyes lack a visible crease and can appear flatter.
• Recommended Styles: Styles that create depth and dimension, like alternating short and long extensions with lash spikes.
• Styling Tip: Manga lashes or textured maps can open up the eyes and add drama without overwhelming the lid space.

Downturned Eyes

 

• Characteristics: Downturned eyes have outer corners that sit lower than the inner corners.
• Recommended Styles: Styles that lift the outer corners, like doe eye or open eye maps.
• Styling Tips: Shift to a stronger curl in the outermost quarter of the lash line to give added lift. Decrease length at the very outer corner to prevent droopiness.

Deep-Set Eyes

 

• Characteristics: Deep-set eyes are set further back in the skull, often with a prominent brow bone.
• Recommended Styles: Looser curls in longer lengths if natural lashes can support them.
• Styling Tips: A doe or open eye map that concentrates length toward the center can open the eyes up beautifully.

 

Close-Set Eyes

 

• Characteristics: Close-set eyes have less space between them.
• Recommended Style: Cat-eye styles to create the illusion of wider-set eyes.
• Styling tips: Avoid placing long lash extensions too close to the inner corners, which can make the eyes appear even closer together.

 

Wide-Set Eyes

 

• Characteristics: Wide-set eyes have more space between them.
• Recommended Styles: Doll eye lash mapping to balance their appearance.
• Styling Tips: Apply longer extensions towards the middle of the eyes to draw attention inward, making the eyes appear closer together.

Upturned Eyes

 

• Characteristics: Upturned eyes have a slight lift at the outer corners.
• Recommended Style: Natural look lashes to enhance their charming shape.
• Styling Tips: Applying shorter lash extensions towards the centre and gradually lengthening them towards the outer corners will emphasize the upturn.

 

When choosing eyelash extensions, it’s important to consider both the natural eye shape and the desired effect. A professional lash technician can provide personalized recommendations to ensure that the extensions complement and enhance your unique features.

 

Recommendations for Beginners

 

For those who are new to eyelash extensions, it’s advisable to start with a more conservative approach and then gradually explore more dramatic options as you become accustomed to wearing and maintaining them. Here are some recommendations tailored for beginners:

 

Start with Classic Lash Extensions

 

Why Classic?:

Classic lash extensions are the most natural-looking option. They involve attaching a single extension to each natural lash, which minimizes the risk of overwhelming your eyes or damaging your natural lashes.

 

Benefits: They provide a subtle enhancement, making them a great starting point for those unfamiliar with eyelash extensions. They’re also easier to maintain and less likely to cause discomfort due to their lighter weight.

 

Consider Your Lifestyle

 

Daily Activities: Think about your daily routine and choose extensions that will be practical. If you have an active lifestyle or wear glasses, longer and more voluminous lashes might not be suitable.

Maintenance: Classic lashes require less upkeep, making them a good choice for those who are not ready to commit to frequent salon visits.

 

Consult with a Professional

 

Personalized Advice: A professional lash technician can assess your natural lashes and recommend the best length, curl, and thickness for a natural look that won’t damage your lashes.

Technique: A skilled technician will ensure that the extensions are applied correctly, which is crucial for the health of your natural lashes and the longevity of the extensions.

 

Gradually Increase Volume

 

Step-by-Step: Once you’re comfortable with classic lashes and their maintenance, you can consider trying hybrid lashes, which offer a mix of classic and volume lashes for a slightly fuller look.

Experiment: As you become more experienced, you can experiment with different volumes, lengths, and curls to find the style that best suits your preferences and eye shape.

Aftercare and Maintenance

 

Follow Aftercare Instructions: Proper aftercare is essential to maintain the health of your natural lashes and the longevity of the extensions. Avoid water and steam for the first 24-48 hours and be gentle when cleansing your face.

 

Regular Refills: Plan for regular refills every 2-3 weeks to maintain the fullness of your lash extensions as your natural lashes shed and regrow.

 

Be Mindful of Potential Allergies

 

Patch Test:

If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, ask for a patch test before getting a full set of extensions to ensure you don’t react to the adhesive or lash materials.

 

By starting with classic lash extensions and gradually working your way up, you can safely explore the world of eyelash extensions and find the perfect style that enhances your natural beauty without causing discomfort or damage to your natural lashes.

 

Dramatic Effect: Choosing the Right Volume for Your Eyelash Extensions

 

When deciding on the volume of your eyelash extensions, it’s crucial to consider the desired outcome. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle enhancement or a bold, dramatic look, understanding the different types of volume lashes and their effects can help you make an informed decision.

 

Light Volume Lashes

 

Light volume lashes, often referred to as 2D-6D lashes, provide a customizable look that ranges from natural to slightly more voluminous. These lashes are perfect for those seeking a noticeable yet understated enhancement to their natural lashes.

 

Benefits: Offers a more natural look, suitable for everyday wear. Adds subtle fullness without appearing overly dramatic.

Ideal For: Individuals with naturally sparse lashes or those looking for a modest enhancement.

 

Dramatic Volume Lashes

 

For those desiring a more pronounced and impactful look, dramatic volume lashes, including Russian Volume and Mega Volume, are the go-to options. These techniques dramatically increase the density and volume of your lashes, creating a bold statement.

 

Russian Volume:

This style involves creating a fan of 3 to 5 (or more) extensions per natural lash. It fills gaps between lashes, offering a voluminous and fluffy appearance.

 

Mega Volume:

Utilizes even lighter weight lashes to create fans of 10-14 extensions per natural lash. This style provides the most dramatic effect, ideal for special occasions or for those who prefer a high-impact look.

 

Hybrid Lashes

Hybrid lashes are a blend of classic and volume lash extensions, offering a textured, life-like lash look. This style is perfect for those who desire a balance between natural and voluminous lashes.

Composition: A 50/50 mixture of 1:1 classic lashes and volume fanned lashes. It’s a versatile option that can be customized to suit any preference, from subtle to dramatic.

 

Popularized By: Celebrities like Kim Kardashian, hybrid lashes have become a sought-after style for their stunning, texturized appearance.

 

Choosing the Right Curl, Length, and Fullness

 

Your lash artist will assess the condition of your natural lashes to decide the appropriate curl, length, and fullness for your extensions. It’s essential to choose extensions that complement the thickness and length of your natural lashes to avoid any potential damage.

 

Coloured Eyelash Extensions:

For those looking to add a unique touch to their look, coloured eyelash extensions are available. They can enhance or contrast with your natural eye colour for a striking effect.

The choice between light volume, dramatic volume, and hybrid lashes depends on your personal style, the occasion, and the natural condition of your lashes. Consult with a professional lash technician to determine the best option for achieving your desired look while maintaining the health of your natural lashes. Remember, eyelash extensions are customizable, so don’t hesitate to express your preferences and expectations during your consultation.

 

Time and Cost of Lash Refills

Maintaining the fullness of your lash extensions requires regular refills. The frequency and cost of these refills can vary based on the type of extensions you have, the salon you visit, and your natural lash growth cycle.

Frequency of Lash Refills

General Recommendation: Lash refills are typically needed every 2-3 weeks to maintain the desired fullness.

Natural Lash Cycle:

Natural lashes have a growth cycle of 6-8 weeks, and since extensions are attached to these lashes, they will shed with them.

Individual Variation: Some individuals may need refills more or less frequently depending on how quickly their natural lashes grow and shed.

 

Table of Refill Costs

Here is an example table of refill costs based on the type of lash extensions:

Type of Lash Extensions	Initial Full Set Price	2-3 Week Refill Price
Classic	$120	$70
Volume	$190	$110
Mega Volume	$240	$130
Hybrid Lashes	$180	$100

 

To keep your eyelash extensions looking their best, plan for regular refills every 2-3 weeks and budget accordingly. Consult with your lash technician to understand their specific refill policies and pricing to avoid any surprises. Remember that taking breaks between full sets is important for the health of your natural lashes.

 

Lash Extension Length, Volume, and Curl

 

When selecting eyelash extensions, it’s important to consider the length, volume, and curl to achieve a look that complements your natural lashes and meets your aesthetic goals. Here’s a detailed guide on how to choose the right lash extension length, volume, and curl.

 

Lash Extension Length

 

The length of eyelash extensions should be chosen based on the natural lash length and the desired style. The rule of thumb is to select a length that is no more than 2-3mm longer than your natural lashes to ensure a natural appearance and avoid any potential damage to the natural lashes.

 

Lash Style and Length

 

• Natural Style: Shorter extensions that closely follow the natural lash length.
• Cat-Eye Style: Begin with shorter lashes near the inner corner and gradually increase length toward the outer corner.
• Dolly Eye Style: Longer lashes in the centre, with shorter extensions at the inner and outer corners.

Lash Extension Length Categories

 

• Short Lash Extensions (5-8 mm): Ideal for inner corners and a very natural look.
• Medium Lash Extensions (9-12 mm): The most popular range, suitable for the center and outer corners.
• Long Lash Extensions (13-16 mm): Used for centre and outer corners on clients with longer natural lashes.
• Very Long Lash Extensions (17-22 mm): For clients with very long, healthy natural lashes who desire a dramatic look.
• Ultra-Long Lash Extensions (23-30 mm): Rarely used, mainly for special occasions.

 

Lash Extension Volume

 

Volume refers to the number of individual lash extensions clustered into a “fan.” The volume is indicated by a number followed by the letter ‘D’ (e.g., 2D, 4D, etc.). Lighter volumes like 2D to 4D create a more natural look, while higher volumes like 4D to 8D offer a more dramatic appearance.

 

Lash Extension Curl

 

The curl of the lash extension is crucial for achieving the desired look. Different curls can dramatically alter the appearance of the eyes.

 

• J Curl: Offers a subtle and natural-looking enhancement, great for straight lashes.
• B Curl: Provides a gentle lift, creating a soft and feminine appearance.
• C Curl: The most popular curl, it suits almost every eye type and provides a noticeable lift.
• D Curl: Adds intense lift and drama for a bold and striking look, ideal for naturally curly lashes.

 

When choosing eyelash extensions, it’s essential to consider the natural lash length, desired style, and lash condition. Opt for lengths that are no more than 2-3mm longer than the natural lashes and select the volume and curl that best suit your personal style and eye shape. Always consult with a professional lash technician to ensure the health of your natural lashes and achieve the best results.

Conclusion

 

Selecting the perfect eyelash extensions is a personalized journey that significantly enhances your natural beauty and complements your lifestyle. By carefully considering the type of extension, your unique eye shape, the level of drama you desire, and the commitment you’re willing to make towards maintenance, you can achieve a look that not only elevates your appearance but also feels comfortable and sustainable over time.

 

Understanding the nuances between different materials, styles, lengths, volumes, and curls of lash extensions is crucial. Whether you’re drawn to the subtle elegance of classic lashes, the voluminous allure of mega volume lashes, or something in between, there’s a style that perfectly matches your aesthetic preferences and daily routine. Moreover, recognizing how your eye shape influences the impact of various lash styles enables you to choose extensions that truly highlight your best features.

 

For beginners and those looking to refine their lash extension choices, the journey doesn’t have to be daunting. Professional guidance is key to navigating the vast array of options and ensuring that your lash extensions not only look stunning but also maintain the health and integrity of your natural lashes.

 

At ARDOUR Brows and Lashes, we pride ourselves on offering expert advice and exceptional service tailored to each client’s individual needs. Our team of skilled technicians is dedicated to helping you discover the ideal lash extensions that reflect your personal style and enhance your natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring lash extensions for the first time or seeking to elevate your current look, ARDOUR Brows and Lashes is your trusted partner in achieving the captivating and effortless allure you desire.

 

Embrace the transformative power of expertly applied eyelash extensions and experience the confidence that comes with flawless, eye-catching lashes. Visit ARDOUR Brows and Lashes today and let us guide you towards the perfect lash look that complements your unique beauty and lifestyle.