Putting on a set of new, high-quality lash extensions isn’t as easy as one, two, three—it requires specialized tools and a sprinkle of expertise. You’ll need the lashes, of course, and all the application tools… but what are those, exactly? In this simple guide, we’ll outline the tools you need for eyelash extensions and how they’re used in the application process.
Eyelash Tweezers
You’re going to need some tweezers—not one, but two. The first tweezer you’ll need is a good, trusty isolation tweezer. They’re used for isolating, or separating, the sections of natural lash to which you’re applying extensions. The next type of tweezer you’ll need on hand is a lashing tweezer. Lashing tweezers are, as the name suggests, used for applying the lashes. While you use the isolation tweezers to hold the section of lash to which you’re applying the extensions, pick up the lash extensions with the lashing tweezers and apply them.
Lashing tweezers can be straight, L-shaped, or curved, depending on the type of lash you’re applying. Straight tweezers are better for classic lashes, while L-shaped or curved tweezers are better for volume lashes. If you’re not sure what type to get, this guide to eyelash tweezers can help.
High-Quality Lashes
They’re the most important part of any eyelash extension: the eyelash extensions themselves! Going the cheaper route might be tempting, but don’t. Extensions sit on your face, the most visible part of your body. If you have cheap, plasticky eyelashes, the people around you will notice.
Find a material that work for you. You can go the natural, more expensive route and buy mink or fox. If you’re allergic to animal fur or looking for something that better fits your budget, go with synthetic or man-made lashes. If you’re looking for a fun, trendy twist, consider purchasing colored lashes. They come in every color of the rainbow, and they’re great ways to make a statement.
Strong Adhesive
Don’t want your eyelashes peeling off? Then you’ll need something to hold them down. A strong, long-lasting adhesive is crucial for maintaining your brand-new look. Find a glue that suits your needs. Consider the price, its efficiency, its ease of use, and the way it feels on your eyelids.
Primer
Another tool you need for eyelash extensions is primer. Primer is crucial for an even foundation—and it’s important for good, long-lasting lashes, too. It removes debris and oils from the lash extensions prior to application. Dirty, oily lashes have lower retention rates. They’ll diminish in quality, break, and fall off sooner than clean ones.
Don’t use a Q-Tip to apply your primer. Leftover lint particles can adhere to the eyelashes, or the product can drip into the eyes. Special-made micro-brushes are the best ways to prime your eyelashes—they’re quick, efficient, and virtually drip-free.
Lash Brushes
Just like tweezers, brushes keep your eyelashes separated. The occasional brushing will keep your extensions from sticking together, adhering at a strange angle, or turning clumpy. As a bonus, lash brushes make your lashes look fluffy and volumized. Pick a quality brush that doesn’t pull or yank at your lashes—this can be painful, if not straight-up damaging.