How to Get That Natural Eyelash Extensions Look

If you want to crack that natural eyelash extensions look, keep reading.

Not all eyelash extensions have to look like dramatic butterfly wings on your eyes. I’ve worked as a licensed cosmetologist for more than five years and have heard plenty of misconceptions about eyelash extensions.

You can get a natural look with eyelash extensions if applied correctly. Follow my guide to get natural-looking lashes with extensions.

I’ll cover:

• The difference between classic and volume lashes styles
• How to prepare for your trip to the lash technician
• How to make eyelash extensions look natural

Classic vs. volume lashes styles

Classic eyelash extensions are the traditional type. One extension gets applied for every natural lash, so they provide extra length and curl. They are most suited to those with full natural lashes. On sparse lashes, classic extensions create a spidery look.

With volume eyelash extensions, the technician will make a fan from two to six extensions. They apply the fans to a natural eyelash. Volume styles give you a dense, abundant, and fluffy look. These suit those with sparse natural lashes or who want a dramatic look.

You might think that you need to opt for classic styles for the natural look or that you’re a lost cause if you have thin lashes. However, you can make volume work.

Your lash technician would need to apply smaller fans with thinner lashes between 0.03mm and 0.07mm. You could also get a hybrid between the classic and volume for a natural look on sparse lashes.

Before you go to a salon

You don’t want to walk into a random salon down the street, ask for natural extensions, and walk out with cobwebs on your eyes. By preparing for your trip, you can get the results you want the first time.

Do your research

Research lash technicians in your area. Check their testimonials, certifications, and experience. At a minimum, your lash tech should have a cosmetology license from the state and proven experience with lash extensions.

Browse social media to see if they post their work. It’s a red flag if your tech does not proudly post their clients on social media in this day and age. It could indicate that they do not want to give clients the chance to leave honest reviews on their accounts.

If you found a lash technician who has created the natural look with eyelash extensions, contact them for a consultation.

Also, make sure you research extensions for your face. Look for pictures of people with similar eye and face shapes to bring to your technician. Having multiple images can give your lash tech the best idea of what you want.

Remember, lashes will stay on your eyes for four to eight weeks. You don’t want to feel like a hot mess for that long! Do your research!

Pick a lash material

Typically, you will find eyelash extensions made from these materials:

• Synthetic hair
• Silk
• Faux-mink fur
• Mink fur

Synthetic lashes

These can vary in composition, but they’re usually made of polybutylene terephthalate or PBT. PBT is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic in the polyester family.

Some of the material properties include stain resistance, lightness, durability, cheapness, and water resistance. However, it does not look realistic as it has a shiny, heavy look with unnatural curls.

Silk lashes

Despite its name, is a synthetic material, and one of the most popular when it comes to eyelash extensions. They look natural, especially if you have naturally fine lashes. However, that does mean they don’t give a heavy dramatic look that many people are after when they get eyelash extensions.

Mink fur lashes

Real mink lashes cost the most, but they have their controversies. Mink fur is sourced from minks caged on farms and frequently shaved for their fur. However, they do give a natural, feathery, lightweight, and comfortable appearance to eyelashes. If you want mink fur, look for a company that sources them ethically.

Faux mink lashes

Faux mink lashes are a cruelty-free way to get the dramatic look of mink. They are made from the same material as silk, so you know they’ll be soft, but they give more drama and oomph than silk. However, they won’t give the same pop as synthetic lashes will. Instead, they’ll still manage a natural look.

Consider the color, length, and curl

You will have to decide the color, length, and curl of your eyelash extensions. For a natural look, opt for a black-brown shade. Pure black might look harsh on most skin tones.

For the natural look, you will likely want to go with a classic or hybrid set. You can make an exception if you have sparse lashes. You do not want something too long because this will appear artificial.

Look for the B and C extensions for the most natural curl. If you normally curl your lashes before applying mascara, you might want a mix between C and D lashes. Varying the lash types will result in the most natural look.

Again, presenting the technician with an image of your ideal results will give them the best idea of what to apply.

Natural eyelashes are shorter at the inner corner of the eye and get longer towards the outside. However, exaggerating this feature too much may give a dramatic cat-eye effect. While flattering to many eye shapes, it does not usually look natural.

Ask about lash separation and type of glue used

Lash technicians will separate and attach lashes to each natural lash. If they attach one extension to multiple lashes, they can cause your natural lashes to fall out.

Also, ask about the adhesives they use. Glues containing formaldehyde are carcinogenic and allergenic, so you will want to avoid them.

Ask for a patch test to see if you have adverse reactions to the glue. Some adhesives may lead to itching, pain, swelling, redness, and vision troubles.

How can I make my eyelash extensions look natural?

If you want your eyelash extensions to look natural, you will need to take care of them correctly.

Keep lashes dry for the first 24 hours

Once you leave the salon, make sure you have an umbrella and goggles on hand. You cannot get your eyelashes wet within 24 hours of application. They could weaken and fall out.

Avoid getting any moisturizers, cosmetics, or oil-based beauty products on them. These can break the integrity of the glue. You won’t be able to use any oil-based cleansers, makeup removers, serums, facial creams, or moisturizers during your time with lashes.

Some experts recommend keeping them clear of water and steam for 48 hours after application. You will also need to minimize your time spent under the showerhead as the weight of the falling water may break your lashes.

Avoid sleeping on your stomach

Sleeping on your stomach may cause your lash extensions to tangle and twist, giving them an unsightly appearance in the morning. Try to sleep on your back or side to minimize any squashing and keep them in a natural orientation.

Also, consider getting a silk pillowcase that won’t catch or pull at your lashes. Make sure to clean it regularly for the health of your lashes, skin, and hair.

Use mascara wisely

Most eyelash extensions will take the place of mascara, but you can still use it in moderation if, and only if,  you have classic extensions. Apply it to the tips of your lashes and avoid brushing the base with the mascara.

For more on how to use mascara safely read “Can You Put Mascara on Eyelash Extensions.” (The answer is yes, by the way)

If you want to curl your eyelashes, use a heated curler for a gentle lift. Mechanical curlers will likely break them off.

Clean and brush your lashes daily

Purchase a lash cleanser and add it to your morning and evening beauty routines. You can make a lash cleanser by mixing baby shampoo and water. Lather it into your eyelashes and rinse with clean water. You can also read, “How to Clean Your Extensions the Right Way.”

Then, brush your extensions gently. Take a clean spoolie and brush your lashes to set them in place, especially after a night of tossing and turning. Brushing can prevent the crisscrossed lash look. Also, it removes moisture from the extensions that can weigh them down.

Key takeaways on natural eyelash extensions

Eyelash extensions can truly transform your look. Gone are the days of mascara smudging under your eye and looking ugly when you cry. With natural-looking eyelash extensions, you can trick people into thinking you were genetically blessed.

The key takeaways are:

• Research the best lash technician in your area
• Find pictures of the look you’re going for
• Pick the highest quality material you can afford that aligns with your values
• Go for a black-brown color and a classic or hybrid set with styles B and C
• Make sure the technician only applies one extension or fan to each lash
• Use a non-toxic adhesive that passes a patch test
• Keep your lashes dry for 24-48 hours after application
• Avoid using oil-based products while you have on extensions
• Sleep on your side or back
• Only apply mascara to the tips of your lashes
• Use a heated curler instead of a mechanical one
• Cleanse your lashes with a cleanser and brush with a spoolie twice a day

Now that you know how to get natural-looking eyelash extensions, start researching certified technicians! Also, check out our other articles for the best tips on lash care.