Cluster lashes are quickly becoming the newest trend in false eyelashes, and they’re just as flashy as their name suggests. This eyelash extension variation has multiple rows of individual lashes placed in several clusters, which allows your eyes to stand out more than ever before with both natural-looking length and volume.
So, what exactly are cluster lashes? What do they look like? How are they applied? Where can you get them done? Let’s take a closer look at this eye-catching trend.
What are Cluster Lashes?
You’re not alone if you’re curious about cluster lashes but don’t know much about them. But let us assure you that it’s entirely possible to have clusters of eyelash extensions placed over your natural ones. This popular lash extension treatment can be a good option for women with small or sparse natural lashes because minimal maintenance is involved.
If having long and luscious lashes without a lot of upkeep sounds appealing, keep reading our guide on cluster eyelash extensions so you can learn all about how they work and how to choose a top-notch lash artist for your next visit.
When you choose a lash artist for your cluster eyelash extensions, make sure they are certified and have plenty of experience in doing cluster eyelash extensions. A poorly done application can lead to the removal or fall out, which is obviously not ideal.
To ensure that you get perfect, natural-looking cluster lashes, talk with your lash artist about how you want them to look and if there are any special considerations involved in your order. It’s also important that you arrive on time for your appointment so there isn’t an unnecessary delay getting started on applying them.
Why Cluster Lashes?
If you’re in love with full, long, thick lashes but don’t want to be at war with them (or your eyelash curler) every morning, cluster lashes could be a viable solution. Unlike standard eyelash extensions (which are made up of single strands of artificial fibers), cluster lashes use multiple rows of tiny individual lash clusters.
The unique design means they’re flexible and soft—in other words, you can sleep in them and style them effortlessly. Their semi-permanent nature also means that they start falling out naturally after about three months. This gives clients an ideal opportunity to have them refilled before their natural lash cycle runs its course and all those pretty little clusters start falling out on their own.
Cos of Cluster Lashes?
A full set of eyelash extensions will cost you about $250 for a full-face application and $150 for just your upper lash line. That’s per session, so if you want them done monthly, that can get pretty pricey.
For comparison, getting a perm or full set of hair extensions is about $600 and $1,000, respectively. If your goal is to save money but still get long, luscious lashes quickly, consider going with Latisse: The prescription medication, which comes in either solution or cream form, can help you grow longer lashes by as much as 15 percent within four months.
How are Cluster Lashes applied?
Well, let’s take a look at how they are applied. First off, applying cluster lashes is far different than applying individual or strip lashes. They are applied with an adhesive and a specialized tool called a cluster lash applicator.
Special glue for these types of false eyelashes is also required, so if you haven’t already purchased it yet you will need to make sure that you do before moving on with your application.
The cluster lash applicator looks like a mascara wand and it is used by holding it vertically so that it looks like you are squeezing a tube of toothpaste. At first glance, cluster lashes can seem intimidating but once you get started, they are actually fairly easy to apply.
So how do you apply them then? Once you have all of your materials, it’s time to get started. First off, take one of your cluster lashes and hold it up to your eyelid so that you can see where it fits on your lash line.
Next, you will use a small amount of glue on that area and hold it in place with your finger for a minute or two until it dries completely (you don’t want any smears). Now all that is left is to repeat these steps with all of your other lashes! Remember not to wear cluster lashes too close together since they are already connected and won’t be as flexible as regular false eyelashes.
How Cluster Lashes Work
Cluster lashes are applied as individual extensions and generally last between four and six weeks, depending on your natural lash cycle. The cluster lash extensions are meant to blend in with your own lashes, which is why their length is short; you’ll typically have a few small clusters of lashes that go from one or two millimeters long up to five millimeters long along your top lash line.
While cluster lash extensions may look like standard volume lash extensions, there are several key differences: Because they’re applied individually, cluster eyelash extensions take significantly longer than regular ones do—upwards of an hour or two.
Best times to use Cluster Lashes
Unlike strip lashes that you can use every day, cluster lashes are best used for special occasions. The durability of cluster eyelashes means they won’t last as long as individual lashes, but they look much more natural and will give your eyes a subtle lift.
Cluster eyelashes are great if you want to boost your lash line without going overboard—they’re a subtle way to spice up any eye makeup look. Pair them with neutral shadow on days when you want something fresh but aren’t in a hurry to be noticeable. On special occasions, rock these babies with full-on glamour makeup; they add drama without being too extreme for everyday wear!
How Long Do Cluster Lashes Last?
Depending on a variety of factors, like how well you take care of them and your individual lash cycle, cluster lashes can last anywhere from 8-16 weeks. Some women prefer removing their eye makeup at night and cleaning up their look during days when they don’t have meetings or other events.
But if you want to enjoy your cluster lashes for as long as possible, try not sleeping in your mascara so that you can minimize some of its wear and tear. One way to ensure that doesn’t happen is by using a non-waterproof formula.
Can I Use Them on My Eyes?
The short answer is yes, but with caveats. Since cluster lashes are essentially made up of individual mini-lashes, your eye doctor must check for underlying eye conditions and make sure your eyes are healthy enough to withstand a cluster-lash treatment.
Anyone with an existing condition such as dry eyes or allergies should not undergo a treatment at home, no matter how tempting or temporary it may seem.
Just like applying lashes on your own can damage your eyelids and lead to permanent scarring (true story), doing so on fake lashes can lead to long-term injury—not worth it! Now that we’ve covered all of those safety concerns, nothing is stopping you from trying out cluster-lash strips at home!
Are Cluster Eyelash Extensions Safe?
False, store-bought lashes, like magnetic lashes, are not the safest alternative. Cluster lashes might harm your natural lashes since they are put in small portions with low-quality adhesive.
Many individuals believe they are overly hefty and hence harmful. Is that the real deal? Cluster lashes, especially when applied in groups along your lash line, are typically too hefty for your natural lashes. Cluster lashes’ weight can weigh down your normal lashes, weakening them and possibly breaking them.
When it comes to cluster lashes, another consideration is the adhesive used to apply them. The glue used with cluster lashes is low-quality, unlike the medical-grade adhesive used by experienced stylists.
Furthermore, users frequently use too much glue while applying cluster lashes at home. When you remove the clusters, the extra low-quality glue might separate your natural lashes. Hiring a pro for their knowledge, high-quality glue, and skills is a no-brainer!
Recommendations from Experts
The first thing experts will tell you will be “the best ways to use cluster lashes and get your money’s worth”.
Now that you know what they are, what do you do with them? The uses of cluster lashes really do depend on your lash goals. If you want more volume and thickness but prefer a natural look, for example, then cluster eyelashes can be your best friend.
They’re excellent for giving length to shorter lashes or drawing attention away from shorter eye shapes. Plus, it’s easy to customize your look with different styles and lengths of individual lashes – simply clip off any clusters that are larger than what you need!
For more dramatic results with more dramatic-looking results (and a longer application time), consider using individual lashes in conjunction with clusters.