Lash Extension Basics: Types, Materials & Care

A crucial element determining the finish and design of eyelash extensions is the "dedicated artificial lash" itself. Artificial lashes come in various types and materials, and their selection and management directly impact the quality and safety of the application.

This article provides a detailed explanation for professional lash artists covering the essential knowledge: the basic role of artificial lashes, their types, materials, selection points, and the often-overlooked importance of hygiene management.

What Are Dedicated Artificial Lashes? Basic Role & 5 Classifications

Dedicated artificial lashes (hereafter referred to as artificial lashes) serve the role of making the client's natural lashes appear longer, thicker, and fuller, creating an effect similar to mascara or eyeliner.

Artificial lashes are primarily classified based on the following five factors:

1. Thickness: Various thicknesses are available, such as 0.05mm, 0.07mm, 0.1mm, 0.15mm, etc.

2. Length: Generally ranges from about 6mm to 15mm.

3. Curl: Different curl strengths and shapes exist, like J curl, C curl, D curl, etc.

4. Taper: How finely the tip narrows. A longer taper results in a finer, more natural-looking tip.

5. Color: Black is predominant, but brown and various colored extensions are also available.

In addition, the variety of choices continues to expand, with recent additions including features like antibacterial processing, UV protection, and surface laser processing (e.g., Groove Lash) designed to enhance adhesion with the glue.

The Technician's Perspective on Choosing Artificial Lashes

Some clients may mistakenly believe that "just adding as many lashes as possible enhances eye definition," but professionals should not simply comply with such requests without proper assessment.

Technicians must prioritize safety assurance and thorough hygiene management as prerequisites. Based on this foundation, they need to select the optimal design and artificial lashes by comprehensively considering the following factors:

• Client's desires (the desired look/image).

• Client's natural lash condition (health, thickness, length, growth pattern).

• The technician's own professional knowledge and experience in design proposal.

It's required to always choose the most suitable artificial lashes for each individual client from a wide range of options.

【Crucial】Hygiene Management for Artificial Lashes | Risks of Bacteria & Mold

Often overlooked, artificial lashes, much like clothing, carry a risk of developing bacteria and mold.

• Causes: Improper storage methods and lack of hygiene, such as storage in hot and humid environments or direct contact with unclean hands.

• Risks: Once bacteria or mold adhere, they can multiply rapidly (The source PDF shows examples of Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli growth).

Using unsanitary artificial lashes can directly lead to eye area problems. It's essential to always handle them with clean hands and store them hygienically, avoiding high temperatures and humidity. Choosing antibacterial-type artificial lashes is one preventive measure.

PBT is Mainstream! A Comparison of Artificial Lash Materials

Currently, the vast majority of artificial lashes available on the market are made from a synthetic fiber called "Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT)".

• Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT):

  • Excels in chemical resistance, heat resistance, shape memory (curl retention), and flexibility, making it highly suitable for eyelash extensions.

  • Features include resistance to curl loss and resilience against chemicals like glue and remover.

• Other Materials (Rarely Circulated):

  • Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET): Often referred to as polyester. Sometimes used for multi-lash cluster types like "flare" or "bouquet" lashes.

  • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Common in hair extensions and wigs. Characterized by relatively low heat resistance, deforming at lower temperatures.

  • Animal Hair (Mink, Sable, Fox, Squirrel, etc.): May offer unique luster and texture, but natural variations in length, curl, and thickness make them difficult to use consistently. Due to allergy concerns and animal welfare considerations, they are rarely adopted today.

  • Human Hair: Primarily processed for hair extensions. Similar to animal hair, faces challenges like quality inconsistency.

• Evolving Functional Materials:

  • Silk Protein Infused: PBT infused with silk-derived protein, aiming for natural softness, deep black color, and a matte texture.

  • Groove Lash: Features micro-grooves created by laser processing on the surface to increase the bonding area with the glue, enhancing retention.

  • Flat Lash: Has a flattened cross-section, making it lightweight and soft, reducing the burden on natural lashes while still providing a voluminous look.

Development continues on even more advanced artificial lashes combining these benefits.

【Warning】"Silk" & "Mink" Aren't Material Names! Understanding Product Names vs. Materials

Here is a very important point of caution. Many products on the market are named "Silk Lash," "Mink Lash," or "Sable Lash." However, these names do not necessarily mean they are made from the actual material (silk fiber, mink fur, sable fur).

In most cases, these are product names given to PBT material that has been processed to express a certain texture or appearance, such as "silk-like luster," "mink-like softness," or "sable-like matte finish."

It is crucial not to judge the material solely by the product name. Always check the "Material" specification listed on the product packaging or description. If it says "Material: PBT," then it is an artificial lash made from PBT.

Conclusion: Choose the Best Lashes & Provide Safe Services with Correct Knowledge

Having accurate knowledge about the types, characteristics, and materials of artificial lashes is indispensable for proposing the optimal design for each client and providing safe, high-quality services. It's particularly important to understand the difference between product names and actual materials and make it a habit to always check the material indication. Furthermore, thorough hygiene management of artificial lashes is essential; always ensure they are handled and stored cleanly.

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