One scroll through your Instagram feed and you're likely wondering how on earth these people were born with such big, beautiful lashes. Well, friends, chances are... they weren't. Here in 2019, 3D lashes — better (and perhaps more accurately) referred to as "volume lashes" — are making major waves in the beauty community.
According to Andra Ciulei Marin, artistic director and expert lash stylist at Akai Lash Boutique in New York City, it is a service that allows the stylist to create thick, voluminous lashes — even on clients that have naturally sparse lashes. To learn more about the revolutionary beauty treatment, we chatted with Marin for the skinny on this exciting new lash extension technique. Read on to determine if you want to book a lash appointment stat.
Image courtesy of Rebecca Norris
What sets 3D lashes apart?
"The classic approach to lashing is one single extension per natural lash, so the sets that can be achieved are limited to the number of natural lashes a client has," explains Marin. "Volume lashes are a serious game-changer in our industry because they literally give the appearance of more lashes than you were born with. This new technique is done by applying extremely fine extensions that are hand made into fans and attached to each single natural lash."
While they're still bonded 1:1 on each lash, each fan can hold anywhere from two to six lashes, which makes for a major flutter that simply can't be beat. The trick is to determine which level your natural lashes can handle without flopping over — it can be anywhere from 2D to 6D.
Image via Imaxtree
How to care for your 3D lash extensions
As soon as you walk out of one of these innovative volume appointments, you'll look in the mirror and wish your new lashes could last forever. While they will eventually fall out, with the proper tender love and care, you can help them last longer. "When caring for volume lashes, the same rules as caring for classic lash extensions apply," Marin says. In other words? Don't get them wet immediately after application (that means for at least 6 to 12 hours after depending on the adhesive used); don't use any products containing oil on or immediately around the lash line; don't rub your eyes; and always brush them gently if and when you need to cleanse them (using an extension-friendly cleanser, of course).
Image via Imaxtree
One last thing to watch out for
While maintenance is the same, there is one big difference between volume and classic lashes: You can't wear any mascara — ever. "Classic eyelash extensions wearers can use a water-based mascara, whilst volume eyelash extensions wearers must never use mascara, as even water-based formulas close the fluffy custom made fans together and makes them look clumpy," explains Marin.
Image via Imaxtree
