The Evolution of Eyelash Extensions: From Mink to Modern Synthetic Lashes
In the early days of eyelash extensions, lash artists and clients had limited options, often resorting to lashes made from mink fur. If you're unfamiliar with mink, it's a small, cute animal resembling a ferret, known for its incredibly soft fur. Fortunately, the practice of using real mink fur for eyelash extensions has been abandoned. Here’s why the industry has evolved and what lash artists need to know about today's high quality, ethical alternatives.
Why The Industry Moved Away from Mink Fur
Using mink fur for eyelash extensions presented several significant drawbacks:
- Ethical Concerns: Harvesting fur from mink is inherently cruel, leading to significant backlash from animal rights advocates.
- Inconsistent Quality: Mink fur lashes didn’t hold their curl well, couldn’t get wet, and varied in length from hair to hair.
- Allergen Risk: Many people experienced allergic reactions to mink fur, making it unsuitable for widespread use.
Similar issues were found with other natural materials like silk and cashmere, prompting the industry to seek better solutions.
Modern Synthetic Lashes: A Superior Alternative
Today, terms like "Silk," "Mink," and "Cashmere" are used to describe the appearance of synthetic lashes, not their material. All modern eyelash extensions are made from a plastic fiber called Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT).
What is PBT?
PBT is a thermoplastic semi-crystalline polymer and a type of polyester. It is heated and molded into the desired lash shape, which sets as it cools. PBT offers several advantages:
- Durability: PBT fibers maintain their shape and curl, even when exposed to water and everyday wear.
- Consistency: Unlike natural fibers, PBT provides uniform length and thickness, ensuring a flawless look.
- Hypoallergenic: Synthetic lashes made from PBT are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
Quality Grades of PBT Fibers
Not all PBT fibers are created equal. There are different grades of quality in synthetic lashes, and understanding these can help you choose the best lashes for your clients:
- Taper: Some fibers have a more pronounced taper, with 2/3 of the lash creating a lighter and softer feel. Others have a shorter taper, with 1/3 of the lash, resulting in a bolder look with a stronger curl.
- Finish: Fibers can range from shiny and glossy to dull and matte, depending on the desired aesthetic.
Regardless of whether a synthetic lash is labeled as "silk" or "mink," it is made from the same PBT material. The key difference lies in the processing and quality of the fibers, which affect their appearance and performance.
Why Choose LAVILASH for Your Lash Supplies?
At LAVILASH, we are committed to providing high quality, ethically sourced lash supplies that meet the needs of modern lash artists. Here’s why our products stand out:
- Ethically Sourced: Our lashes are cruelty-free, ensuring that no animals are included in any of our production processes.
- High Quality: We use premium-grade PBT fibers that are durable, hypoallergenic, and available in a variety of finishes to suit different styles.
- Sustainable Practices: We are moving towards more sustainable practices and materials, supporting the environment and our lash community.
- Supportive Community: Join our lash family and access free weekly digital downloads and blogs to keep up with the latest trends and techniques. Sign up for our mailing list and receive 10% off your order!
Conclusion
The shift from natural to synthetic lashes has revolutionised the eyelash extension industry, offering more ethical, durable, and high quality options. As a lash artist, understanding the materials and their properties is crucial to delivering the best results for your clients. Explore our range of products at LAVILASH and experience the difference that top-quality, ethically sourced lash supplies can make.
Ready to elevate your lash game? Sign up for the LAVILASH mailing list today and enjoy 10% off your next order!
