Eyelashes have been a symbol of beauty and a sign of femininity for centuries. Through history, we can see that special emphasis and at times drastic measures have been taken to enhance the eyebrows. In ancient Egypt, kohl, a combination of soot and fat had been used to darken the tips of eyelashes. Towards the end of the 18th century, an obsessive trend was seen, where people would actually implant eyelashes onto their eyelids with the help of a needle and thread. This was a popular procedure, even in capital cities like Paris. Those who were not willing to brave the needles even tried to glue human hair to eyelids instead of threading it, but this method was not very successful as the hair often fell off. Some of these methods seem extreme (talk of needles poking the eye), but it just goes on to show the importance that has been placed on eyelashes to enhance the physical features and highlight the eyes.
Today, the fascination with long fluttery lashes is still present, but you do not have to endure such extreme pains to achieve the look. Fake eyelashes can be applied using a simple technique and there are lots of different lengths and styles available, from naturalistic to full out drama queen options. Before you go on to slap the first pair of false lashes that comes your way to make a dramatic statement with your peeps, take a few minutes to find out about the different kinds of false eyelashes available to find the perfect option that will augment your lids.
Types of False Eyelashes
If you have not been blessed with long lashes or you feel that that your lashes are too thin and sparse, then false eyelashes are for you. They are the perfect solution to get those thick long lashes that you are vying for. They are used religiously by people in the entertainment industry and fake eyelashes are a must-have for every haute couture makeup artist. Dark smoky eyes coupled with thick, long lashes is the epitome of a glamorous, edgy look and is gaining a lot of popularity.
False lashes are available in a wide variety of styles, sizes and shapes. There are 4 main types of false eyelashes. These are strip lashes, individual flare lashes, individual single lashes and magnetic eyelashes.
Strip Lashes
Strip lashes are the most common type of false eyelashes that are sought out by most beginners. These lashes come in one strip and consist of lashes that are attached to a fabric band. They adhere to the skin just above the lash line in one piece. Strip lashes are removable and can be reapplied and worn lots of times before they run out. They come in various lengths and you can even trim them to custom fit your eyes making then very versatile. As they are very easy and simple to apply, most people can wear them individually without any help. They are made from a variety of materials. The various kinds of strip lash available depending on the type of material are shown below.
- Synthetic False Eyelashes are made with synthetic material, typically plastic fibers. However, despite popular belief they can be soft and fluffy even though they are made of plastic. The cheaper versions can last 2 to 3 wears before they start falling apart and are bit uncomfortable.
- Silk False Eyelashes are also available, and they are made of soft synthetic silk material. They are very comfortable and provide a silky feel. They are designed in a 3D style, providing a super wispy and fluttery look. The premium kind can last 20-25 wears with proper maintenance and are extremely friendly on the pocket.
- Mink False Eyelashes are made from mink fur that is obtained from farms that brush the shedding hair of minks and then sterilize them. These eyelashes are extremely soft and comfortable to wear. The disadvantage of these eyelashes is that they do not stick to the glue very well and tend to fall off over time.
- 5D Faux Mink False Eyelashes are designed with 5 layers of synthetic making them the fullest lashes you have laid eyes on. They are of very high quality and very comfortable. You will definitely make a statement with these eyelashes.
- Horse Fur False Eyelashes have become very popular as they give a very wispy effect. Horse fur is easy to manipulate and can be molded into different styles. They also have some shedding over time but can be worn many times with proper care.
- Human Hair False Eyelashes are almost as popular as the synthetic ones. They make use of actual human hair and give a very natural effect. They are extremely comfortable and easy to wear. These lashes are very thin making it very easy to apply them on the eyelid.
Individual Flare Lashes
These lashes consist of adding each strand of hair one by one, with the help of an adhesive on your natural lashes. Though, this method takes more time and effort the end result is amazing as the person applying it has more control on how the final product will look. Individual Flare lashes are used to provide volume to sparse eyelashes or can be used to create flared lashes by adding a few lashes around the outer eye area. These lashes come in 3 different lengths and you can choose from these to achieve different looks.
Individual Single Lashes
Individual single lashes are used for eyelash extension and are a more permanent solution, lasting between six to eight weeks. They are usually applied in a salon by a professional, as it takes time and expertise to apply them in the correct manner. These lashes are used to fill in sparse areas in your eyelashes and make your lashes fuller. The life of these lashes depends on how well you care for them after application. If you feel that some of the lashes have fallen off leaving gaps on your eyelids, you can go for a fill-in treatment where lashes are reapplied to the sparse areas.
Magnetic Eye Lashes
Magnetic eyelashes consist of a magnetic strip having eyelashes attached to them. You can wear them by sandwiching your natural lash between two fake lashes with the magnetic strips holding them into place into of glue. They are easier to use and don’t take a long time to apply, saving a lot of time in your beauty routine. These lashes can last for a long time with proper care and hold up to 10 hours without removing them.
The type of false eyelash that is right for you will depend on whether you are looking for a permanent solution or want to have a temporary change. The application process should also be taken into consideration when choosing between the different types. Pick the false eyelashes that will help you achieve the look that you are trying to create. You are now ready to rock your lashes and create a buzz.