Did you know that in the 19th Century, women in Paris used to sew hairs onto their eyelids? They would first rub it with cocaine and then run a fine needle threaded with hair through the edge of the lid. Ouch.
Thick, fluttery and perfectly curled lashes have always been fashionable. However, luckily today, we don’t have to go back to such extreme lengths. The biggest problem we have now is getting them to last. Indeed, applying false eyelashes can be tricky business. The general lifespan of eyelashes is typically around 3-8 uses, however if you’re anything like us, it’s more like 2-4 uses after we’ve inevitably applied them with too much glue or lost one somewhere on the streets. RIP.
Are sick of buying falsies that just don’t last too?Whether they quickly ping up at the corners, soon look a little worse for wear, or simply refuse to stick down in the first place, wayward strip lashes are never a good look. They’re frustrating, unflattering and a failsafe way to waste your hard-earned cash. The question is – are cluster lash kits any better?
One of the latest additions to the beauty game, cluster lashes are a convenient alternative to both classic at-home strips and professional lash extensions. And it’s fair to say, they’ve boomed in popularity due to their salon quality, affordable price, easy application (even for a beginner!) and – most importantly – their fantastic staying power.
What Are Cluster Lashes?
Cluster lashes, also known as flare lashes or individual lashes, are a type of false eyelash that consists of small groups of lashes bundled together. Unlike strip lashes, which are a single band of lashes, cluster lashes come in small clusters of 3-10 lashes. They are designed to be applied individually to the lash line, allowing for a more customised and natural look. We should mention here that some brands can weigh down your natural lashes which can lead to breakage. In other words, if the cluster lashes look like falsies, they will be too heavy.
The great thing about cluster lashes is that You can apply as many or as few clusters as you like to achieve the desired fullness and length. Moreover, because they are applied in small groups, they can blend more seamlessly with your natural lashes and can be used to create various looks, from subtle enhancements to dramatic volume.
Lashes That Will See You Through The Week
Bottom line – a cluster lash kit will, on average, last 7+ days.You read that right. Providing they’re applied correctly, most cluster lashes will stay firmly stuck in place for up to a week or more – without any issues. No need to take them off at the end of the day. No need to remove them for sleeping or showering. And no need to worry about them suddenly falling off on your way to work.
These are falsies that are designed and crafted with longevity in mind.However, it’s important to keep in mind their exact lifespan – and how well they handle the wear and tear of the week – can be affected by a few factors…
The Brand You’ve Chosen
Not all cluster lash kits are created equal. Yes, they all tend to be better than strip lashes in terms of their durability. But some are designed to last longer than others – or will generally fare better due to their quality. When choosing a brand, it’s worth doing a bit of research. Soem clusters
Look for reviews and testimonials from other users. High-quality brands often use better materials and more advanced manufacturing techniques, which can significantly extend the lifespan of your lashes.
Your Choice Of Adhesive
Whilst professional-grade eyelash glues may be known for their impressive sticking power, they can be a little too harsh for regular at-home use. However, choosing a lash glue that’s too gentle can also be a bad idea – as these tend to be less adhesive or will quickly start to deteriorate.
The key to long-lasting cluster lashes is to find the sweet spot between the two. It’s also worth pairing your chosen glue with a lash seal. Not only will this accelerate the drying process, it also helps to lock the glue in place – and extends the lifespan of the clusters. Additionally, consider using a waterproof adhesive if you anticipate exposure to water or humidity. This can further enhance the staying power of your lashes.
How Well You Put Them On
To get the most out of cluster eyelashes, they need to be applied correctly.
If you’re a beginner, it’s worth doing a little research into the different brands and avoiding any kits that seem overly complicated or fiddly. Generally speaking, it takes just 10 minutes – achievable for even for a complete false eyelashes novice!
Before applying cluster lashes, it’s also important to clean the eye area – using either a regular facial cleansing product or a lash shampoo. This will remove any oil from the surface of your natural lashes, improving adhesion and enhancing the overall staying power of the clusters.
5 Application Tips For Cluster Lashes
- Preparation: Ensure your natural lashes are clean and free of makeup.
- Adhesive: Use a high-quality lash adhesive. Apply a small amount to the base of the cluster.
- Placement: Using tweezers, place the cluster on your natural lash line, starting from the outer corner and working inward.
- Adjustment: Allow the adhesive to dry slightly before adjusting the position if needed.
- Blending: Once all clusters are applied, you can use a lash curler or mascara to blend the false lashes with your natural ones.
The Ten Commandments Of Long-Lasting Cluster Lashes
- Avoid Oil-Based Products: Oil can break down the adhesive used for cluster lashes. Stick to oil-free makeup removers and skincare products around the eye area.
- Be Gentle: When washing your face or applying makeup, be gentle around your eyes. Avoid rubbing or tugging at your lashes.
- Sleep on Your Back: If possible, try to sleep on your back to avoid putting pressure on your lashes. This can help prevent them from becoming dislodged or damaged.
- Regular Maintenance: Check your lashes daily and reapply adhesive if you notice any lifting. This can help extend their lifespan and keep them looking fresh.
- Proper Removal: When it’s time to remove your cluster lashes, do so gently. Use a lash remover or oil-based cleanser to dissolve the adhesive, and avoid pulling on the lashes to prevent damage to your natural lashes.
- Avoid Excessive Moisture: While some adhesives are waterproof, it’s best to avoid excessive exposure to water, such as swimming or long showers, to maintain the integrity of the adhesive.
- Use a Lash Sealant: Applying a lash sealant can help to lock in the adhesive and protect your lashes from external factors, extending their lifespan.
- Avoid Mascara: Cluster lashes are designed to give you a full, voluminous look without the need for mascara. Using mascara can clump the lashes together and make them harder to clean.
- Brush Your Lashes: Use a clean spoolie brush to gently comb through your lashes daily. This helps to keep them looking neat and prevents tangling.
- Store Lashes Properly: If you need to remove your lashes temporarily, store them in a clean, dry place. This helps to maintain their shape and cleanliness for reapplication.
By following these tips and choosing high-quality products, you can enjoy beautiful, long-lasting cluster lashes that enhance your look without the hassle of daily application.
