Lash Clusters

How to Choose the Right Lash Clusters for a Mesmerizing Lash Look

What Are Lash Clusters?

Promising customized lash looks, DIY lash clusters are high-impact and fuss-free alternatives to getting lash extensions at a salon. Unlike lash extensions – in which a lash specialist places and bonds individual lash strands to your natural lashes – lash clusters adhere to your eyelid by lash glue and can be applied in the comfort of your own home.

Lash clusters are available in pre-made bouquets containing lash strands of varying lengths and thicknesses. Fitted with a bulb-like end to attach directly under your lash line, cluster lashes are designed to blend seamlessly with your real lashes. Usually available in cluster kits containing multiple individual false lash bundles, lash clusters are just the ticket for short-term or special-occasion use.

Lash clusters are not to be confused with strip lashes, false lashes on a lash band that can be attached whole onto your natural lash line. Strip lashes are convenient and easy to apply, but its one-size-fits-all design means it’s harder to achieve a natural-looking effect. Another alternative is magnetic cluster lashes, which work similarly to regular lash clusters but use magnetic technology to attach on the eyelid rather than lash glue.

Convenient, versatile and easy-to use, lash clusters give beauty lovers the freedom to create DIY lash looks in their favorite aesthetic. The best part? They come at a fraction of the price of lash extension services at a salon.

Lash Clusters – Myth vs Reality

Myth: Lash clusters are inferior to lash extensions professionally applied at a salon.

Reality: Lash clusters deliver eye-catching lash looks with considerable nuance. While they may not offer the customization level of salon lash extensions, they are ideal at delivering dramatic yet natural-looking results. If you’re looking for a quick and affordable way to add length, volume and curl to your lashes, lash clusters are unbeatable

Myth: Lash clusters cause irritation and damage your natural lashes.

Reality: Lash clusters only cause irritation if applied improperly, cleaned without care or worn longer than the recommended length of time.

Because they’re applied under your lash line rather than bonded with your natural lashes, some people perceive that lash clusters may prevent the natural fallout cycle of your real lashes. Some also claim faux lash clusters weigh on your natural lashes, causing drooping, breakage or fallout. In reality, irritation associated with faux lash clusters usually only occur because of improper lash application or prolonged wear. Another common culprit is using too much glue during lash application. To protect your lashes from irritation and damage, always use a formaldehyde-free lash glue, apply only an appropriate amount of glue during application, and never tug at your lashes during removal.

Most lash clusters come in lightweight constructions that keep things comfy. Designed for short-term use, lash clusters should not be worn longer than needed to keep discomfort at bay. While excessive shedding is a cause for concern, a few lash strands falling out during removal is common and not a cause for worry.

Myth: Lash clusters cannot be re-used.

When it comes to prepping lash clusters for re-use, thorough cleaning is key. To remove all traces of glue, apply an oil-free cleanser or makeup remover onto clusters before brushing through them with a spoolie. Proceed to gently wipe away lash glue with a cotton pad and repeat until all faux lashes are free of glue and other debris. Store in a clean and dry place for optimal faux lash hygiene.

How to Create a Customized Lash Look

Lash clusters come in individual flares (4-11 lash strands of varying lengths and thicknesses) and are fitted with a bulb-like end for easy attachment onto or under your lash line. They can be mixed or matched for different results.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing lash clusters:

What are the Best Lash Clusters Made of?

Mink or faux mink lashes were traditionally touted as the gold standard of false eyelashes due to their lightweight construction and luxe-looking finish. Today, synthetic lash clusters (usually made of acrylic or PET) offer comparable results. Soft and lightweight, they blend seamlessly with your natural lashes for high-volume results and comfortable wear.

The Art of Eye Mapping

Not sure how to achieve the fluttery lash look that’s all the rage? Wonder whether wispy lash clusters are really right for your eye shape? Here’s a quick guide to “eye mapping” – the specific placement of faux lash clusters along your lash line − to achieve a flattering result.

A wispy lash look is perfect for monolid, hooded or almond-shaped eyes, but essentially works well for any eye shape. Greater length variation is key, which can be achieved by mixing something subtle like 8mm lash clusters with longer options like 13mm clusters to create bold spikes. For those seeking a more classic look, evenly space out false lashes of considerable thickness to achieve that full and fluffy effect.

Look out for the diameter size and volume of lash clusters when creating lash looks – the smaller 30d lashes keep things playful while dramatic 40d lashes offer intense allure.

Different eye mapping styles can benefit different eye shapes. With an emphasis on amping up volume, length and curl, doll eye mapping is ideal for those with smaller eyes. If you have wide-set eyes, avoid mapping styles that emphasize the outer corners of your eyes, like cat eye mapping. By the same token, naturally redefine close-set or droopy eyes by going for lash looks that produce an upward tilt at the outer corners. Carefully consider how curl, volume and length offset or amplify certain characteristics of your eyes when choosing lash clusters.

Lash Looks in Vogue

If you use makeup as a form of self-expression, you’ll love the way cluster lashes allow for bold experimentation. The type of lash look that suits you depends on personal aesthetics as well as practical considerations, like your eye shape and facial features. While wispy cluster lashes exuding soft glam vibes are ideal for daily wear, anime-style lashes featuring prominent spikes deliver more glamor and edge.

To up the drama in your makeup look, why not opt for retro-style cat eye cluster lashes? Alternatively, go for edgy options like angel lashes, which feature individual false lashes of different lengths to produce a choppy effect. Colored lash clusters are also perfect add-ons to a fun party makeup look.

If you’re not ready for high-drama lash looks, keep things simple by adding a single lash cluster to the outer corners of both eyes. Doing so produces a wide-eyed look understated enough for daily wear.

How to Apply and Remove Lash Clusters

Here’s a step-by-step guide on applying and removing lash clusters with minimum fuss and without damaging your natural lashes. You’ll need good lash glue for seamless and long-lasting results. Basic beauty tools like tweezers and cotton swabs will also ensure safe application.

1. Curl your lashes and apply mascara.

2. Apply lash glue to the base of each lash cluster, letting it dry for around 30 seconds so it gets tacky.

3. Using tweezers, place lash clusters as close as possible to your natural lash line before pressing gently for secure placement. Make sure that glue doesn’t get onto your natural lashes.

4. Apply eyeliner for a next-level finish.

For lash removal, always use an oil-based cleanser or makeup remover.

1. Apply lash remover to a spoolie and gently comb through the top and underside of your lashes.

2. Wait 30-35 seconds to allow the solution to soften and dislodge lash adhesive for easy removal of false lashes.

3. When combing through lashes, wiggle the spoolie until all the false lashes are released from your natural lashes.

4. Give your natural lashes a final comb-through to ensure all traces of glue are removed.

Tips on Extending the Wear of Lash Clusters

To make lash clusters last longer, pay extra care when applying, cleaning and removing them. A thoroughly cleaned eye area provides the perfect base for application. Use lash glue that offers a strong hold without being overly harsh to keep faux lash clusters secure while keeping natural lash damage at bay. Be gentle: don’t tug at your lashes, rub your eyes or rip off false lashes by force. To minimize wear and tear, remove lash clusters before sleep.

Try to keep your faux lashes dry for 24 hours after application, as lash glue easily loses its hold when in contact with water, causing lash clusters to lose volume and curl. When showering, avoid using very hot water and keep your eyes away from direct water spray. Swimming while wearing lash clusters is a big no-no.

Accidentally got your false lashes wet shortly after application? Refrain from touching, brushing or adjusting them immediately. Instead, wait until the lash clusters are fully dry before attempting re-application.

Add Lash Clusters to Perfect Your Eye Makeup Looks

Eager to experiment with DIY lash looks? YesStyle has got you covered with the best cluster lashes around, along with related beauty tools and lash care products to level up your lash game. For high-impact faux lashes that look on point whatever the occasion, shop the YesStyle selection now.