Getting the right lashes for my eyes has been a journey. I started with strip lashes and moved on to full extensions. But my current favorite way is to use at home lash extensions.
At-home lash extensions are a set of adhesive lashes that you can apply without needing a professional makeup artist. When applied well, they can stay intact for up to five days.
DIY eyelash extensions are available in small pod sets, one for each eye. My favorite is the beginner set from Falscara.
Most come in small strips, measuring about a fifth inch long. You’ll need about four to eight strips for each eye, depending on your eye size and shape. Falscara lash extensions come with a specialized fuse control wand that lets you clamp them easily in place.
What are eyelash extensions?
Salon eyelash extensions are animal-based or synthetic fibers glued to your natural eyelashes to enhance volume, length, and shape.
Can you do individual eyelash extensions on yourself?
Yes! You can do individual eyelash extensions yourself. That’s one of the greatest benefits of at-home lash extensions like Falscara lashes.
Generally, DIY eyelash extensions are easy to apply and remove using only a tweezer and adhesive glue. And when done well the results are always amazing. So, you won’t have to make endless trips to a beauty stylist.
DIY lash extensions vs. false lashes (falsies)
The main distinction between DIY lash extensions and false lashes is where you apply them.
Normally, false lashes are used on the top side of the lash line. DIY eyelash extensions are applied on the underside of the natural lashes. The latter appears more realistic because of its unique positioning.
Another difference between the two lash types is the glue used. DIY lashes use a lash adhesive that’s easy to put on and remove.
Pros and cons of at-home lash extensions
In my experience, at-home lash extensions are great because they are available in a wide range of lengths and curl shapes.
They let me easily change my lash style since I get to choose different sets depending on the length, color, thickness, curl type, and material.
They are also a great way to supplement natural lashes if yours have thinned out.
The lashes let me handle my eyelash routine from the comfort of my home. They are easy to apply and cut down on trips to the salon. All I need is a mirror and some tweezers.
DIY lash extensions are a huge money-saver since a set of traditional eyelash extensions can cost upwards of $150.
Since I don’t have to pay a stylist to apply them, it’s an ideal way of getting lashes when on a budget.
The downside to at-home lash extensions
Some at-home lash extension adhesives contain allergenic chemical ingredients. Some people experience hypersensitivity or allergies after applying the lashes which can lead to swelling and other problems.
Read through the ingredients to make sure your eyes won’t have a reaction and do a patch test first to be sure.
DIY lashes can be heavier than salon extensions. They add some weight to the natural lashes and could lead to breakages. This can damage the hair follicle affecting the growth cycle of your natural lashes.
At-home eyelash extensions may make it difficult to wash or wipe the eyes. This can be unpleasant for some people because it prevents them from wiping their eyes.
Types of DIY Eyelash Extensions
At home, eyelash extensions can be classified depending on the material. According to this classification, there are three main types: synthetic, faux mink, mink, and silk.
- Silk lashes: these are glossy and soft lashes made from silk.
- Faux mink lashes: this cruelty-free alternative to real mink lashes is slightly finer than silk lashes. So, you’ll have to use more lashes. When done perfectly, they give a fluffy look that is great for special occasions.
- Mink lashes: these lashes are made from real mink fur and appear more realistic and natural.
- Synthetic lashes: these are made using plastic fiber known as Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT). They are more expensive than any other lashes on the list.
I’ve tried all these types of lash extensions in an effort to find the best option for me. What I’ve come to learn is that each style has its unique pros and cons. So, feel free to try out these different lashes to determine which one works for you.
How to do your own eyelash extensions
One question I come across in my line of work is ‘How to do your eyelash extensions?’
I’ll be honest, it’s a learning process that takes time to perfect. Don’t be upset if your lashes don’t look smooth and natural on the first try. The key to perfection lies in persistence, so you get there if you put in the work.
There are some great tips I’ve learned about doing my eyelash extensions:
Experiment with your applicator wand
I’ve learned that turning the clamp downward makes the application process easier. In the beginning, I used my applicator in the upright position. I realized that I was having a harder time applying the lashes. So, I decided to switch up things a little. Doing this gives me increased control when applying Lashify lashes
Play with lash lengths and curl shapes
You can try mixing different lash lengths, types, and colors to get the lashes to look more natural. For example, I use longer and thicker lash sets at the outer edges and shorter ones in the middle. This helps even out the entire look.
Practice makes perfect
Everyone has their own style of applying DIY home lash extensions. After getting the hang of it, you can even proceed to use black glue.
Keep on practicing until you’ve perfected the procedure.
DIY lash extension aftercare
Wearing any kind of false eyelashes has its complications. It is important to have an aftercare routine to help lower the risks. I’ve learned that practicing good lash hygiene helps with that.
Make sure that you wash your face and eyelashes every day to remove dirt and oil.
You can buy lash cleansers like gels and shampoos to help you clean the lashes. Research to find the best products that work for you. Be sure to follow the instructions to prevent sustaining damage to your eyes.
For a list of our favorites check out our favorite lash extensions cleansers here: “Best Eyelash Extension Cleansers.”
Another tip I’ve learned from using DIY at-home lash extensions is never to rub them. Doing this weakens the adhesive, which makes it loosen fast. If you have to touch them, do so gently to avoid messing with the glue.
Key takeaways on at home lash extensions
Anyone can do their eyelash extensions at home.
DIY at home lash extensions are ideal because they are easy to apply. All you need is a set of lashes from Falscara, FlutterHabit, Lashify, Moitié, some tweezers, and formaldehyde-free glue.
These DIY at-home eyelashes are applied under real eyelashes. That is ideal because it allows them to blend well, giving a natural look.
At-home lashes can be a little challenging at first, I had to do it over and over again to perfect the skill, after a while, I could apply my DIY at-home lashes without much struggle.
So, it cuts off the need to go to a stylist every few days to get the lashes done. Besides, they last for three to five days, depending on how cramped they are.
Do you want to learn more about how to do your eyelash extensions? Visit our website to get some tutorials and more information about these lashes.
Laura is a beauty expert with 5 years prior experience working in cosmetics and lash salons. When not writing you can find her experimenting with the trending makeup looks, or reading a good book snuggled up with her French Bulldog Max. Laura is currently a contributing writer and Beauty Editor at BeatyStack.