When it comes to eyelash extensions, it is crucial to keep up with the updated information to protect the health of your natural lashes. In that case, there are different types of lash extensions; some are better than others. In this article, our primary focus will be on cluster lashes and how long they last.
Are Cluster Lashes Safe?
Cluster lashes (also known as flares) were popular and more convenient, but now, they have been replaced with alternatives like individual lashes. They are fans of lashes attached to the eyelids to help create a dramatic look. Just like the name implies, cluster lashes are clustered together, which makes them quite heavy when applied.
Unlike lash extensions applied individually to natural lashes, cluster lashes are applied to multiple lashes, and on this note, more adhesive is needed. Moreover, when the lashes fall out, they take away many natural lashes, making it hard to get new lash extensions or refills. They also create room for a greater risk of infections.
The amount of glue applied together with the weight of the lashes can prevent regular lashes from shedding and new lashes from growing out, which can lead to ingrown lashes. Irrespective of the disadvantages of these lashes, people will choose them for several reasons.
However, cluster lashes are popular among clients because they are inexpensive, long-lasting, and have striking results. Wearing them for more than one week is not recommended, given the adhesive required.
You might want to check out: What is a Cluster Eyelash Extension?
How Long Do Cluster Lashes Last?
Cluster lashes last for 3 to 7 days. However, 5 to 10 reasonably thick extensions, usually 0.15s, are tied together at the base, and the fan-shaped “Flares” were glued onto 2 to 3 natural lashes; therefore, using 10 cluster lashes made of 10 thick extensions would result in 100 extensions attached to one eye. In contrast, unlike individual lashes, Cluster lashes take more than 30 minutes to apply instead of several hours.
You might want to check out: What Are Cluster Lashes?
What Are The Drawbacks Of Wearing Cluster Lashes?
Although, most lash salons love cluster lashes because they are a quick way to achieve great density in a short time, and the technique is a lot easier than a single eyelash extension application. Despite that, cluster lashes should be avoided at all costs, as they will severely damage your natural lashes by pulling them out prematurely.
One primary reason the cluster lashes may be inadequate for you is that they are usually attached to multiple natural lashes and glue all the flares together on one eye to form a big fan.
In that case, the flares would interfere with the growth cycle of the natural lashes. Also, so much glue would be used in the application process, so when the flares fall off, it will pull out a few of the natural lashes, causing the lashes to look sparse.
Although most lash artists claim the cluster lashes do not cause any damage because of their technique, the truth is, no matter the technique used, the flare will eventually cause thinning of the natural lashes if worn continuously for a few months.
Cluster lashes are attached to many of your natural lashes to avoid interfering with the growth cycle of your natural lashes. As a result, all the flares would be glued together on one eye to make a huge fan on the other eyelid.
Though, so much glue would be used in the application process, pulling out your natural lashes if the flares fall off, resulting in thin and sparse lashes. Moreover, because of the weight of the fan, even if the flare adheres to just one natural lash, the lashes would still be damaged even if the lash artist uses a delicate method.
How Do You Make Cluster Lashes Last?
1. Clean And Brush Them
For cluster lashes to last, it is crucial that you clean and brushes them regularly. Ensure you clean them using an oil-free cleanser so as not to break down the lash adhesive that will cause your extensions to fall out.
2. Go Easy On Them
Being gentle on your lashes is key. Avoid tugging, rubbing, or plucking them. Also, avoid eyelash curlers as they weaken the extensions and cause breakage.
3. Sleep On Your Back
Sleeping on your back is very good for your lashes as it will keep you from smashing them into your pillow, which can lead to a premature fall out of your lash extensions.
Cluster Lashes Vs. Individual Lashes: Which is Better?
The eyelash extension industry has come a long way, and each client has their preference when choosing the perfect lash extensions. In contrast, cluster and individual lashes are similar, but they are two different eyelash extensions entirely. While cluster eyelash extensions are a collection of individual lashes grouped at one end with a thick finishing base, Individual lashes are made of synthetic fibers.
They can come as a singular lash with several lashes joined together. Unlike individual lashes, which are applied with glue on top of each other along the lash line, cluster lashes can be heavy on the eyes, and like strip lashes, they are not to be worn for more than a day. Due to where the cluster lashes are applied on the eyelids, they do not shed with your natural lashes the same way individual lashes do.
If the lashes cannot shed naturally at the end of their lifecycle, it creates room for infections. The individual lashes are designed perfectly to be applied to the eyelashes so they do not cause any damage. They are available in different thicknesses, so clients with the finest and thickest lashes can apply them safely.
Similarly, where the lashes are applied on the natural lash can make them shed with the natural lashes, and after a few weeks, you might want to get a refill. Finally, as a lash technician, it is recommended not to use cluster lashes on a client. Instead, you can opt for high-quality premade fans because they are suitable and safe to use on natural lashes and save time.
You might want to check out: Individual Lash Application for Beginners
Final Note
The fact that cluster lashes are applied to multiple lashes puts a strain on your natural lashes, and when they fall, they take many of your natural lashes with them. I hope you can see how long the lashes last and how they are wrong and should be avoided at all costs.