One of the most significant advantages of eyelash extensions is their ability to be completely customized, enhancing your client’s best features. Mastering the nuances of lash extension curls, thickness, and length can elevate your artistry and increase client demand. This guide will help you understand everything you need to know about eyelash extension curls to create stunning, personalized looks.
Understanding the Lash Curl Chart
An eyelash extension chart is an invaluable tool for lash technicians. It visually represents the different types of lash extensions, curls, and lengths available. By understanding how each type functions, you can unlock endless opportunities for lash creativity.
Natural Lash Angle and Its Impact on Curl Appearance
Before selecting a curl type, it’s crucial to analyze the angle of your client’s natural lashes, as this will greatly affect the final result.
Natural lashes typically fall into three categories: straight, downward-pointing, and upward-pointing.
The same curl can appear drastically different depending on the natural lash angle, as illustrated below.
- Downward-pointing lashes: May not achieve the desired lift or open-eye effect with certain curls.
- Upward-pointing lashes: Can achieve a noticeable lift and open-eye effect, even with a more subtle curl.
A diverse selection of curls in your lash extension supplies is essential for truly customized results.
Advanced Tip: Addressing Varying Lash Angles
Often, clients have a mix of different angled lashes on each eye. The goal is to create a balanced and even look by strategically mixing appropriate curls.
Curl and Retention: A Delicate Balance
It’s important to remember that curlier lashes tend to have shorter retention periods. This is because the base of the extension has less surface area to attach to the natural lash. Selecting the appropriate curl and thickness combination based on your client’s natural lash health is paramount.
For clients with difficulty attaching curly false eyelashes, EZ-curl lashes offer a solution.
Exploring Different Eyelash Extension Curl Types: Which One is Right for Your Client?
Understanding the nuances of each curl type is essential for providing tailored lash services.
Subtle Curls (I, J, B Curls)
- I Curl Lashes: Almost straight, ideal for male clients or those seeking enhanced thickness without significant curl.
- J Curl Lashes: Offer the most natural look, best suited for clients with straight or upward-pointing lashes.
- B Curl Lashes: Provide a gentle lift for straight lashes, offering a natural enhancement with good retention. Excellent for inner corners.
Dramatic Curls (C, D, U Curls)
- C Curl Lashes: A popular choice for clients with a slight natural curl, creating an open-eye effect.
- D Curl Lashes (CC Curl): More dramatic than C curl, ideal for clients with downward-angled lashes seeking a show-stopping look.
- U Curl Lashes (DD Curl): The curliest option, designed for clients with downward-angled lashes desiring a dramatic, doll-like appearance.
Lift-Up Curls (M, L, L+ Curls)
- M Curl Lashes: Designed to lift downward-angled lashes, creating a wide-eye effect.
- L Curl and L+ Curl Lashes: Feature a flat base for ultimate eyelid lift, ideal for hooded eyelids, deep-set eyes, and mature clients with droopy eyelids.
Better-Bonding Curls (EZ Curls)
- EZ Curl Lashes: Feature a straighter base for improved adhesion and easier application, resulting in better retention.
Maintaining Consistent Curl Shape
Eyelash extensions are typically made from PBT, a material that doesn’t expire. However, over time, the curls can relax. To preserve their shape, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity.
Lash Extension Sizes: Thickness (Diameter) & Length
Lash Extension Thickness (Diameter)
Choosing the correct diameter is crucial for both design and the health of your client’s natural lashes. Thicker extensions can be too heavy, causing poor retention and premature lash loss.
Generally, thinner extensions (0.10-0.15mm) are recommended for clients with finer natural lashes, while those with stronger lashes can support slightly thicker extensions (0.15-0.20mm) for classic sets.
Lash Extension Length
The most popular extension lengths range from 11mm to 12mm. Shorter lengths (5-9mm) are typically used for inner corners or bottom lashes, while lengths between 9-13mm are used for the majority of the set.
While clients often desire the longest lashes possible, it’s your responsibility to guide them toward a length that is safe for their natural lash condition. Consider using slightly longer lashes for clients with hooded or droopy eyelids.
When working with curlier lashes, remember that the strong curl can make the extension appear shorter, so adjust the length accordingly.
Mastering Lash Curl Selection for Stunning Results
By understanding the various curl types, considering the natural lash angle, and balancing curl with retention, you can create stunning and customized lash looks that will leave your clients delighted. Remember to prioritize the health of the natural lashes and always provide expert guidance to ensure the best possible outcome.
