Which Types of Eyelash Extensions Are Right for You?

Individually applied eyelash extensions do what mascara can only dream of: visibly lengthen lashes. Best of all, the effect lasts for weeks after just one application. But even if you're sold on the benefits of eyelash extensions, you still have an important decision to make: what kind should I get? We profiled the three most popular types of eyelash extensions, and found out that what you end up with depends largely on what you're willing to spend.

Real Mink Eyelash Extensions

Price ranking: Most expensive (though not unreasonable with a deal)

The look: Ultra-natural. These blend seamlessly into your real lashes, making them the least detectable of all the types of eyelash extensions.

Pros: They're soft and extremely lightweight, so much so that you can apply multiple mink hairs to a single eyelash (a process known as volume lashes). They're also cruelty-free. Minks aren't harmed in any way when these get made; their coats just get brushed and the resulting hairs are then sterilized.

Cons: Aside from being the most expensive type of extensions, mink lashes need to be applied the most slowly and painstakingly. A technician who picks up a mink extension improperly will snap it with her tweezers. If you're strapped for time, go for one of the hardier styles below.

Good to know: Many salons use faux mink extensions, which are heavier than real mink, but can hold a curl better. Faux mink extensions are similar to silk extensions, just a bit thicker.

FIND: DEALS ON MINK EYELASH EXTENSIONS

Silk Eyelash Extensions

Price ranking: Medium

The look: Deep black with a slight shine. These are perceptibly fake... but only if the person looking gets really, really close to you.

Pros: Their silky texture makes them especially comfortable against your face. They're lightweight, too, though a bit heavier than real mink lashes. Because they're so dark, many people with silk extensions skip mascara.

Cons: If you want your lashes to be undetectable, this isn't the style for you. Splurge on mink.

Good to know: Silk eyelash extensions aren't made from silk fibers; rather, they're made from a synthetic material. They're the most common of all the types of lash extensions.

FIND: DEALS ON EYELASH EXTENSIONS 

Synthetic Acrylic Eyelash Extensions

Price ranking: Least expensive

The look: Thick, black lashes. These are the most obviously fake, but that's not necessarily bad—bright red lipstick and reality TV shows are obviously fake, too.

Pros: This style is the most dramatic, and holds its curl very well. It's especially great for people who want to try extensions without spending a fortune.

Cons: Of the three styles, these lashes are made of the coarsest fiber, which can make them feel itchy on the face. They're also the heaviest—weak natural lashes often can't support acrylic extensions. Plus, they don't stay on as long as silk or mink extensions.

Good to know: This was the first style to cross over from the fashion world to the mainstream.

SHOP: LASH EXTENSIONS, INCLUDING MAGNETIC LASHES

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