Are you contemplating the idea of getting cat-eye eyelash extensions? These have emerged as the most sought-after style at my lash salons, as they effortlessly produce an attention-grabbing appearance with a touch of understated allure.
Whether you are a client or a lash artist, there are a few crucial aspects you must be well-informed about regarding cat-eye eyelash extensions before you make a definitive decision.
What Are Cat-Eye Eyelash Extensions?
Cat eyelashes are a unique style of eyelash extensions that employ longer extensions towards the outer edge of the eye and shorter ones towards the inner corner. This technique effectively produces a winged or cat-eye appearance.
So what makes this style unique?
First of all, it creates the illusion of bigger and more dramatic eyes. In addition, adopting a cat-eye style eyeliner can give off a captivating and seductive aura. Whether it's for a special occasion or a daily routine, these lashes can boost your self-confidence and enhance your natural beauty.
Now, you need to understand that cat-eye lashes come in various styles and designs. Not all of them are identical. In the following section, we will explore the different variations of this captivating look.
What Types of Cat-Eye Lash Styles Exist?
1. Natural Cat-Eye Lashes
A natural cat-eye look is typically achieved using traditional lashes and a combination of extensions ranging from 8 mm to 13 mm. However, the specific length of the extensions used may vary depending on the client's natural eyelash length.
2. Voleme Cat-Eye Lashes
The Volume Cat Eye look is a bolder interpretation of the classic cat eye look. To achieve the Extreme Cat Eye mapping effect, a combination of C and M curls with a length of 5 to 13 millimeters is recommended. This lash size greatly enhances the overall effect, creating a mesmerizing and unique cat-eye effect.
3. Reverse Cat-Eye Lashes
Similar to its name, the reverse cat-eye entails a contrasting approach to the conventional cat-eye style. Instead of employing shorter extensions in the inner corner of the eyes and longer ones in the outer corner, this technique reverses the placement. Longer extensions are skillfully applied in the inner corner, while the shortest ones delicately grace the outer corner.
4. Wispy Cat-Eye Lashes
To create a fluttery cat-eye effect, Classic lashes are applied evenly along the lash line to create a fluttery or spiky lash effect. To add volume and thickness to the lashes, a volumizing lash fan is also placed between the lashes.
5. Kitten Eye Lashes
The kitten style is a modified version of the typical cat-eye style, incorporating shorter extensions to achieve a more understated appearance. For instance, the kitten style typically utilizes extensions ranging from 9 mm to 12 mm in length. I must admit, this particular style is not as widely requested among my clients, as most of them prefer the added length for a more dramatic effect.
Classic Vs. Hybrid Vs. Volume Cat-Eye Lashes
All three lash application techniques, namely classic, hybrid, and volume, can be employed to achieve this particular style. The fundamental distinction among these techniques lies in the number of lash extensions utilized for each natural lash.
- Classic cat-eye lash extensions use one extension per natural lash, creating a natural and effortless appearance. It is considered the simplest and most authentic technique among the three options available.
- Volume cat-eye lash extensions utilize 2-6 lash extensions for each natural lash, creating what is commonly referred to as 2D to 6D fans. This technique produces the most striking and voluminous outcome compared to the other methods. It is possible, in theory, to use more than 6D, reaching up to 15D, however, this is known as mega-volume and is typically reserved for exceptional events or occasions.
- Hybrid cat-eye lash extensions combine elements of classic and volume lash techniques. This unique approach involves using classic lashes to create pointed "spikes" and enhancing overall thickness with volume fans.
In my lash studio, I frequently employ the volume technique to create a captivating cat-eye appearance for my clientele. I have noticed that the added boost provided by volume lashes truly transforms the lash game for those seeking a more enhanced look.
To create a cat-eye lash map for my clients, I follow these steps:
- Divide the entire lash line into 4 to 6 sections by using dotted lines. You can directly draw on the under-eye pad with a fine-tipped pen. Ensure that the sections are evenly distributed. Remember, the more sections you divide the lash line into, the greater the potential for creating striking and precise styles!
- Depending on the length of the client's natural lashes, 7 to 8 different sizes of lashes are chosen, usually between 8 and 15 millimeters in length. It is also recommended that the extensions be at least 2mm longer than the client's existing lashes for a dramatic, layered effect.
- Begin applying the lashes from the inner corner of the eye, gradually increasing the length as you move towards the middle. For the inner corner, opt for shorter lashes measuring around 8 mm, while progressing to lashes measuring 10 or 11 mm for the central area.
- Apply longer lash extensions from the middle section of the eye towards the outer corner. Usually, opt for 10-11 mm lashes in the middle section and gradually extend the length to 14-15 mm for the outer corner of the eye.
- To achieve a bold winged appearance, you may consider trimming the lashes in the outer corner section for a more dramatic effect. This step is not mandatory, but occasionally, I prefer using lashes measuring around 10 or 11 mm for the outermost section.
- You have a variety of options when choosing a lash curl look, from lash straight J-rolls to DD-rolls and everything in between, all of which can be used to achieve the cat-eye look.
How to do cat eye eyelash extensions？
I adore this video by Cosmina Esanu, where she provides a comprehensive tutorial on achieving mesmerizing cat-eye lashes. Demonstrating the entire process from start to finish.
Step 1: Draw Your Lash Map
As the saying goes: Double-check your measurements before taking action. The same principle holds in this case as well. Before commencing the process of lashing, it is imperative to create a lash map.
Begin by utilizing the under-eye pad to divide the lashes into 4 to 6 distinct sections. Subsequently, make a note of the specific extension length you intend to employ for each section. It is important to bear in mind that for the inner corner, the cat-eye style necessitates the use of the shortest lengths.
Step 2: Decide Which Eyelash Extension Technique To Use
Also, do you want classic cat eyelashes or volume cat eyelashes? If you want natural-looking lashes then go for classic cat eye lashes, If you want more voluminous lashes and the lash artist is more experienced then go for volume cat eye lashes.
If you go with volume cat eyelashes, I recommend up to 5D (5 lashes per natural lash extension). More than that and you may end up with thicker lashes.
Step 3: Start Eyelash Extensions
Using a pair of tweezers, carefully choose the desired extensions, whether they are single lashes or fan lashes, from the tray. Submerge the selected extensions into the adhesive. Next, delicately attach the extensions to the natural lashes.
When executing this technique, I prefer to commence with the shorter extensions at the inner corner of the eye. Gradually, I advance towards the outer corner where I will affix the longer lashes.
Step 4: Final Steps
Once you have finished applying the extensions, it is important to brush them gently. Afterward, you should proceed to cure the adhesive. There are several methods available, but I prefer to cleanse them as moisture aids in the curing process.
Remove the eye pads and there you have it! You are now finished!
Are cat eyelashes right for me? Who is it for?
Selecting the appropriate lash style that complements your eye shape and facial features is essential for achieving a stunning outcome.
For instance, the elongated and feathery cat-eye style is ideal for individuals with round eyes as it enhances their dramatic appeal and exudes a glamorous aura. Nonetheless, this particular look may not be as flattering for those with smaller eyes. On the other hand, if you have droopy eyes, creating a cat-eye effect can give you a more vibrant appearance.
Concluding Remarks
If you're a lash artist you can follow the steps I've described to customize cat eyelashes to better suit your client's eye and face shape.
If you're a client and you're not sure if cat eyelashes are for you or not, but you still want to try this glamorous style, then I recommend you to use self-adhesive cat eye lashes, they don't need glue, they're inexpensive, and I'm sure they'll help you!
