Eyelash extensions are made from a range of materials including synthetic fibres, silk, and mink. Faux mink and silk are popular choices for their durability and natural look, while real mink lashes raise ethical and health concerns. At Edy London, only cruelty-free materials are used to create bespoke, natural-looking lash sets. Why Lash Material Matters …
Eyelash extensions are made from a range of materials including synthetic fibres, silk, and mink. Faux mink and silk are popular choices for their durability and natural look, while real mink lashes raise ethical and health concerns. At Edy London, only cruelty-free materials are used to create bespoke, natural-looking lash sets.
Why Lash Material Matters More Than You Think
Have you ever wondered what eyelash extensions are made out of? You’re not alone. It’s easy to fall in love with the look of lash extensions, but understanding the materials behind them can help you make smarter, safer beauty choices. There are many types of eyelash extensions made from a vast array of different materials, and new materials are constantly being tested.
Whether you’re new to lashes or have had them for years, knowing what’s on your eyes matters. Different materials affect comfort, appearance, longevity, and even your health. Let’s break it all down so you can choose the right fit for your natural lashes, lifestyle, and values.
What Are Silk Lashes?
Silk lashes are made from synthetic silk fibres that are soft, lightweight, and glossy. Despite the name, they’re not made of real silk, but rather a type of PBT plastic that’s processed to have a silky texture. They hold their shape well and create a fuller, more defined look.
Silk lashes tend to be thicker at the base, which gives a more noticeable lash line. They also work well if you like to wear mascara on top of your extensions, as they can hold up better under the added weight. Though at Edy London, we prefer our eyelash extensions to look effortless so there’s no need for make up at all. They’re also slightly shinier than faux mink, which can look more made-up. If you want something elegant and eye-catching without going too dramatic, these are a great middle ground.
Pros:
Silk lashes are lightweight, hold their curl well, and offer a slightly glossier, polished finish. They also last longer with proper care and provide a more defined lash line.
Cons:
They may feel heavier than other materials if you have fine or sparse natural lashes. The sheen can sometimes make them look less natural under certain lighting.
What Are Synthetic Lashes?
Synthetic eyelash extensions are made entirely from man-made fibres, usually PBT, a durable and flexible plastic used across most types of lash extensions. These lashes tend to have a more uniform appearance, with a bolder finish and firmer structure.
They’re often used for volume and mega volume sets, where drama and definition are key. If you’re after a very noticeable look or are used to wearing heavy makeup, synthetic lashes can give you that extra pop.
Pros:
They are affordable, long-lasting, and retain curl extremely well. Synthetic lashes are perfect if you’re going for a more dramatic or glam style.
Cons:
The synthetic materials can feel stiffer and heavier than other types. Because of their uniform shape and matte finish, they may not look as soft or natural as silk or faux mink lashes.
What Are Mink Lashes?
Natural Mink lashes are made from real mink fur, often sourced from animals like the European mink. They’re soft, fluffy, and incredibly lightweight, which is why some people are drawn to them. That said, they lose their curl easily and don’t respond well to heat, water, or humidity.
Edy London does not recommend mink extensions. The reasons are both ethical and practical. Real mink eyelash extensions involve animal cruelty, and no amount of labelling can truly guarantee a cruelty-free process. On top of that, they carry a higher risk of allergic reactions, and the inconsistency in lash shape makes them harder to work with.
Pros:
Soft, fluffy, and ultra-lightweight. Some people love the delicate, fluttery look that real mink provides.
Cons:
Animal cruelty concerns, inconsistent lash shape, poor curl retention, and higher risk of allergic reactions. Simply put, they’re not worth the risk when there are better alternatives.
What Is Faux Mink?
Faux mink lashes are made from high-quality synthetic fibres designed to mimic the look and feel of real mink, without any animal involvement. They’re soft, flexible, and incredibly lightweight, making them one of the most popular choices among lash artists.
They offer the same delicate flutter and fluffy texture as natural mink lash extensions, but with much better durability. Plus, they’re cruelty-free and hold their curl far better than real fur. Faux mink lashes are ideal if you’re after a natural yet enhanced look that lasts. The main difference between faux mink lashes and natural mink lashes.
Pros:
Lightweight, cruelty-free, holds curl beautifully, and gives a soft, natural appearance. They work well for a range of styles and lash types.
Cons:
Not biodegradable, like most synthetic lash materials. But with proper care, they last longer, reducing waste.
Are Eyelash Extensions Vegan?
If you want lashes that are fully vegan and made from natural materials, steer clear of any made from real mink or human hair. Vegan lash extensions are typically made from PBT synthetic fibres, like those used in faux mink and silk lashes. There is also vegan friendly eyelash glue available to ensure a fully vegan product.
At Edy London, we use only vegan and cruelty-free materials. That means you can enjoy beautiful, full lashes without compromising your values. Vegan lashes are also more hygienic and consistent in quality, which means better results and fewer risks.
How Are Eyelash Extensions Made?
Most lash extensions start as PBT, a thermoplastic fibre. The fibres are heated, shaped into individual lashes, cooled to lock in curl, and then cut to various lengths. Some are tapered at the ends for a softer look, while others have a consistent thickness throughout for a bolder line.
In the case of faux mink and silk lashes, extra care is taken to refine the texture and finish. Real mink lashes, meanwhile, involve brushing or collecting fur, then sanitising and shaping it. Aside from the animal welfare issues, real mink simply doesn’t match the performance of high-grade synthetic alternatives.
What About Human Hair Lashes?
You may hear about lashes made from human hair, but they’re rarely used in professional settings today. While technically “natural,” they don’t hold curl well and lack the strength and consistency of synthetic lashes. Plus, sourcing and hygiene can be questionable and risk the health of your actual natural eyelashes.
If someone offers you human hair lashes, ask questions. Most salons and most lash artists today, including Edy London, stick to better-performing, cruelty-free materials.
Are There Eco-Friendly Lash Options?
Right now, most lash extensions are made from plastic-based fibres, which aren’t biodegradable. However, the beauty industry is moving towards more sustainable options, including plant-based polymers and improved recycling practices.
Until these become more mainstream, your best bet is to choose salons that focus on high-quality, long-lasting lashes, like Edy London. The longer your lashes last, the fewer materials you waste.
How Edy London Can Help
At Edy London, Edy specialises in creating natural-looking lash extensions using only premium, cruelty-free materials. Edy has worked with countless celebrities and been featured in leading beauty magazines, so you know you’re in expert hands.
Our goal is to find the sweet spot between beauty and comfort. Whether you want something soft and subtle or fuller and more defined, we tailor your lash set to your eye shape, lash health, and personal style. All with your safety, ethics, and natural lashes in mind.
The Final Word on Lash Materials
Understanding what eyelash extensions are made of helps you choose better for your look, your values, and your health. Whether you go for faux mink, silk, or another cruelty-free material, it’s worth knowing what’s on your lash line.
If you’re ready to elevate your natural beauty without compromise, Edy London is the go to lash technician to help you get the perfect set. With expert technique and premium materials, your own lashes will look natural, feel weightless, and turn heads for all the right reasons.
Ready to try a set of natural-looking, cruelty-free lash extensions? Book your appointment with Edy London today and experience the difference.
