Here’s the thing about cluster eyelash extensions in comparison to other types of eyelash extensions. When placed together, they feel heavier. On top of that, more glue is required to stick them. And that means using them right is crucial to the process.
No wonder not many salons don’t have listed on their service menu eyelash extension clusters. Because you end up doing it the wrong way, you know what happens? You run the risk of losing all or most of your natural lashes. At the same time, skin damage around the eyes takes form. Eye infections are also common as a result.
That said, let’s kick start the article with some need-to-know information…
Cluster Eyelash Extensions - What You Need to Know Before Reading On
Clusters of eyelash extensions are bunched up together. Meaning they consist of individual thicker lashes that create a cluster. Correct? This is not the same as volume lashes where each lash is made thicker and placed closer together.
In the case of a cluster, lashes aren’t interspersed between the natural lashes. Instead, they’re clustered or blended together. These extra eyelashes make the extensions heavier, no doubt. And that also means more glue is necessary for keeping them in place.
Also, the clusters of eyelashes themselves are bound using an adhesive. So you have to add more glue to put them into their proper place. All this does indeed sound like a messy deal in case you get the whole thing or even a part of it wrong.
But then why are cluster extensions still being sold if they’re so complicated and time-consuming to apply? Well, it’s because there are many women out there who know how to get the job done right. And also because volume lashes cannot fix wispy lashes as cluster eyelash extensions do. Only with the latter can you get thick and lustrous lashes.
You just have to take the right steps, that’s all. First things first, make sure you buy a glue that’s the product tested. So it doesn’t give rise to unwanted skin irritation or eye infections. Then comes the part where I tell you to pick the right lash size for your eyes. Because extensions do not come in a single size. In fact, the variety of sizes is not limited in any way.
Next, how long do cluster lashes last? It’s highly advisable to not keep them on for over a month. You can use simple logic here to answer the question. The glue and heaviness of the eyelash extensions are more likely to cause some form of damage if you don’t take them off sooner.
The longer they stay on your face, the greater the chances of developing eye infection and/or skin irritation. To be more specific, by longer, I mean more than 7 days.
Now let’s get to another very important part related to the topic at hand…
How to Make Eyelash Extensions Last Longer?
Eyelash extensions, whether cluster or individual, demand high maintenance. Plus, the process of putting them on and then taking care of them is also time-intensive. And let’s not forget that this is not an inexpensive habit.
That said, you might want to keep the following points in mind to make the experience more to your liking…
1. Do Not Curl Your Natural Lashes
You have to show up at the salon bare-faced. And that means no curling your natural eyelashes. Otherwise, a crease forms and then it becomes difficult to place the lash extensions. And it all ends up looking poorly done, uneven, and clamorous.
Apart from skipping your mascara, also don’t apply any eye makeup, eye cream, and oily skincare. In short, anything that may or may not interfere and mess with the extension glue should be eliminated.
Another very important point many women neglect is not getting their new eyelash extensions wet. So take your shower after 24 hours of applying for the lash extensions. You have to give the adhesive a maximum of 24 hours to dry entirely.
And for a week following the salon appointment, keep from wearing the waterproof kind eye makeup. Because it tends to create an invisible layer that keeps your expensive lashes from gluing together fully.
2. Choose Custom Eyelash Extensions
No doubt, the best cluster eyelash extensions are expensive. The cost actually differs from one salon to another. Generally speaking though, the starting price is around $120. And it goes up to $300. The former being the most basic eyelash extension of course.
But your choice depends on the shape of your eyes. Along with the lash length you like. And your lifestyle as a matter of fact. What looks good on one person doesn’t necessarily complement the face and eyes of another. And that’s only natural to happen.
Most salons and eyelash studios offer a catalogue of eyelash extension options. It’s like a guide book that contains the simplest as well as the boldest lash extensions. Those with round eyes, more often than not, choose the longest eyelashes. Some women go for cat-eye extensions as well. These are very popular for opening up the eyes even more.
Now let’s talk about the material used for these custom eyelash extensions. The most common ones are faux mink and silk. The former looks the most natural and fluttery. While the latter has a slightly more shiny appearance. Thus, it pops more.
Then comes the curl type and length; J, C, and D. J shape have a bit of a curve with a longer length. While the other two have the most flipped shape.
And finally, how many eyelashes to apply? An experienced eyelash artist often combines different lengths for creating a natural wispy look. For example, a minimum of 4 various lengths for each style of extensions.
3. Cluster Eyelash Extensions Are Not the Best Choice
Many salon experts and lash artists recommend not using cluster extensions. Because these have the tendency to weigh down natural lashes. Therefore, leading to breakage.
Now I know that those with sparse lashes can benefit a great deal from clusters. They do indeed create a more voluminous appearance. So here’s what you can do. Make sure every single extension is placed to just one natural lash. With no visible glue. And without the extensions touching your eyelid.
Just keep in mind that if the eyelash extensions look fake, then they’re probably going to feel too heavy as well.
4. Eyelash Extensions Do Feel Weird Initially
If your new extensions are feeling weird, then it’s only natural for this to happen initially. With eyelash extensions, it’s highly recommended to sleep on your back. Because if you sleep on your stomach or your side. Then the chances are your fake lashes are going to get crushed. And that means you’re compelled to remove them.
In that case, feel free to sleep on a travel pillow. Something that keeps your head elevated while also keeping your body resting on its back.
5. Adjust Your Daily Skincare Routine
As I already mentioned, keep oily skincare products away from your face. So if your skincare routine consists of any formula with rich, nourishing oils. Then you might have to keep it on the sideline. For the sake of your new, lustrous eyelash extensions of course.
But what if your skincare routine includes applying an eye cream? If that’s the case, then why not use the eye cream in your morning skin routine. This way it keeps from interfering with your lashes, unlike nighttime application. Also, make sure the eye cream is not infused with greasy ingredients like mineral oil.
On the whole, apply only non-oily skincare and beauty products.
6. Adjust Your Makeup Routine
If you’re tweaking your daily skincare routine, then it’s much the same for your daily makeup routine. Speaking of which, do you know that there are extension-friendly mascaras as well? These work toward enhancing the shape and appearance of eyelash extensions. And not jeopardizing them.
As for what not to do, avoid applying any waterproof kind eye makeup. Because when you try to remove it, the makeup is only going to weaken the glue holding your lash extensions together. Likewise, stay away from glittery or loose powdery eyeshadows. These tend to accumulate over the roots of the lashes. Therefore, once again weakening them and also causing breakage.
What about liner? Can you use a liner with eyelash extensions? You can if it’s liquid-based or gel-based. It shouldn’t tug at those lash roots that’s all.
7. Change the Way You Wash Your Face
Bumping your expensive eyelash extensions accidentally is a very common occurrence. Many women have lost their lash extensions this way. So how about you take the necessary steps to prevent this from happening with you as well. And the technique is quite simple.
Stick your head as low as possible into your skin. Splash water gently over your forehead and the bottom part of the face. Now carefully sud up both areas. Then rinse your face by gently dabbing it using light, upward circular motion to cover the whole face.
For getting the cleanser off around your eyes, use your ring fingers to dab the area with clean water. Don’t scrub your face at any point.
8. Thoroughly Clean Your Eyes
Before you get any ideas in your head, let me explain.
Combine distilled water and tear-free baby shampoo formula (a little of both). Use this mixture for cleaning your top lids and the bottom part of your eyes. This gets rid of any residue buildup along the lash line. And do this irrespective of whether you apply eye makeup or not.
With extensions, your eyes certainly demand extra attention.
9. Brush Your Eyelash Extensions
Just like your hair gets messy and tangled up after a shower, even eyelash extensions go through the same. Most salons and lash artists provide you with a soft spoolie for combing the extensions daily.
Look down, use the pointer finger to support your eyelashes. Then twirl that spoolie gently over the top part of the lashes. It’s the opposite movement of applying mascara. This only takes 5-10 seconds. But it has desirable long-term effects.
10. Avoid Picking Your Eyelash Extensions
If you want to get them removed, then head to the salon. Because if you try to pick them on your own. You’re running the risk of breaking your natural eyelashes too.
Speaking of removing lash extensions, they cycle off on their own over time. That means you can expect your false eyelashes to last for around 3-4 weeks when properly cared for.
Cluster Eyelash Extensions - Final Words
There are many women who simply can't get enough of eyelash extensions. Especially the cluster kind in the case of sparse natural lashes. They add a lot more volume than you can imagine. And that’s why they’re so addictive.
Cluster eyelash extensions do what a mascara, no matter how expensive, is never able to achieve. Your scarce, thin lashes transform into the most curled, flutteriest, and thickest. With no clumps. And with that perfect tapering shape from the roots to the tips. The only issue is maintaining them the right way.
But when done right, eyelash extensions can last for around 3-4 weeks. At the end of which, they wear out on their own. Meaning you don’t have to go through the trouble of removing them.
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