Eyelash extension techniques

Eyelash extension techniques

25th Jun 2021

If you want to have your eyelash extensions done, you can choose from several different techniques that are used all around the world. Have you already heard about 2D, 3D or 4D extension methods? Do you know how to get the Hollywood effect? If not, take a few minutes to learn about the most common techniques of lash extension.

Types of lash extensions

There are a few things that you should learn before heading to the beauty salon. One of the most important are the types of eyelashes that you can choose from. In general, there are three basic types of artificial lashes that are available:

  • Synthetic - they are made of acrylic plastic that is highly durable. What is more, they are slightly brighter and shinier that other types of lashes. The synthetic material allows for instantly visible effects. The hard structure of the material makes lashes resistant to external conditions and distortion. It is the least expensive option that provides you with the most easily remarkable effects.
  • Silk – they are made of silk proteins that are softer, lighter and more flexible than synthetic lashes. They perfectly match the structure of natural lashes. This is a perfect choice for women who have weak and thick eyelashes. The product does not burden the hair bulbs and provides you with natural effect.
  • Mink – these super light and delicate lashes are made of Siberian mink fur. Similar to silk ones, they do not weaken natural eyelashes. Mink eyelashes usually vary in length, but each lash is of the same thickness. They imitate natural eyelashes and the effects of extensions are ultra-natural.

What is the eyelash extension treatment?

Lash extension treatments that are performed in beauty salons consist of sticking artificial lashes just below the eyelid line. Fake eyelashes come in different forms. The most common ones are made of silk or plastic. Natural lashes from Siberian mink fur are also popular with clients. During the treatment, a beautician applies one or more false eyelashes to each natural lash. If the procedure is performed with the use of professional products, the effect may last about 2 months. However, the first lashes may fall out as early as 2 weeks after the treatment. Therefore, to maintain the effect, supplementing the extensions every month is necessary.

1:1 eyelash extension method

The 1:1 method is usually chosen by women who want to have their eyelashes extended for the first time. This is one of the easiest and quickest way to get stunning long eyelashes. The name of the method is 1:1, because it consists in sticking one fake eyelash to one natural eyelash. The treatment is ultra-safe and does not weaken the natural bulbs if performed well with the use of high quality glue. The effects of the treatment are delicate and the lashes look natural. During the treatment, the beautician usually uses about 100 artificial eyelashes for each eye.

2:1 eyelash extension method

The 2:1 eyelash extension technique, also known as the 2D method is a perfect solution if you want to extend and at the same time thicken your lashes. The first part of the treatment is the same as in the case of the 1:1 method, i.e. the beautician applies one fake eyelash under the eyelid line and attaches it close to the natural eyelash. After that, the second false eyelash needs to be applied at the eyelid line. After the 2D treatment, the number of false lashes is two times greater than your natural lashes. The technique takes quite a bit of time and the effects are more visible.

3:1 lash extension method

This is one of the most frequently chosen methods among women with fine eyelashes. The method delivers thickness, length and volume so you don’t need mascara any more. It is not recommended for women who have a delicate eye contour since the results may seem to be a bit exaggerated. Choosing the 3D lash extension technique, three artificial eyelashes are applied to each natural eyelash. All of them form a W-shape, similar to a hand fan. It optically enlarges the eyes and makes you look more seductive and stronger.

More volume techniques - 4:1 and 5:1 methods

The 3:1 and 4:1 volume techniques slightly differ from to the previous methods of lash extension. They are based on lash bundles. It this case four or five fake eyelashes are applied to each natural lash. This is a perfect solution for all women who desire a spectacular effect of lash extension. Both 4D and 5D techniques consist of attaching a bundle of artificial eyelashes into a natural eyelash. The amount of hair in a bundle is 4 or 5, depending on the chosen methods. To get the best results of the treatment, the beautician uses different types of bundles - thinner lashes are used for eye corners while thicker ones are applied to the central part of your eye.

Single-use lashes

If you want to experiment with false lashes or you just need them for a special occasion, you don’t need to undergo a lash extension procedure. You can simply go for special makeup with false lashes that will look stunning for one day only. This is the best option in case of big events such as weddings, proms and exclusive parties. The lashes can be applied by a make-up artist in the form of bundles or as the form of strips. If you are experienced in makeup, you can also try to apply them on your own. It is much easier than it looks!

Hollywood effect with fake lashes

Many Hollywood stars look flawless. Do you want to have the Hollywood look and shine like one of them? Or perhaps you are just wondering what to do to enjoy the Hollywood effect with long, thick and voluminous eyelashes? The solution is really simple and can be obtained within two hours! Just choose one of the aforementioned volume lash extension techniques, e.g. the 2D, 3D or 4D method, to make your eyes look provocative and tempting. With the Hollywood effect you can feel like a real superstar.

What is the best lash extension method for me?

The choice of the best lash extension techniques depends on many factors. The most important of them is the effect that you want to achieve. If you opt for the Hollywood effect with voluminous and thick eyelashes, go for the 2D, 3D or even the 4D method. If you are not sure how many fake lashes will be suitable for you, the beautician who will perform the treatment will surely suggest the best option. If you want to achieve the most natural effect and want your lashes to be longer, the basic 1:1 method should be all you need.

Lash extensions vs. thin natural eyelashes

If you have thin eyelashes, you have probably heard that applying false lashes may weaken them even more. To some extent, this may turn out to be true. Luckily, there are some solutions that you can opt for to get the Hollywood effect without burdening your natural lashes. You can for example choose silk or mink lashes over synthetic ones. They are lighter and much more delicate so they do not interrupt the growth of your natural lashes. If you want to be sure that the lash extensions will not do any harm, address the certified eyelash technician who will figure out the safe weight of the eyelashes that you can have. The specialist will suggest the best extension method among the 1:1, 2:1, 3:1 or 4:1.

Are lash extensions safe?

In general, artificial eyelashes are safe and don’t cause allergic reactions. However, if you are prone to allergies, be careful when using the adhesive. Lash glues contain chemicals that can irritate skin or eyes and cause swelling or itching. Fortunately, there are some innovative glues that are much more delicate and can be used by allergy sufferers. They can be applied with different kinds of lashes, including individual eyelashes used for such methods as the 1:1 or 2:1 as well as 4:1 lash bundles. These types of glues reduce side effects and guarantee a strong grip for weeks.

Once that you know what the most popular lash extension techniques are, you are fully prepared for your first lash extension appointment. We hope that the information we provided will help you choose the best extension method.