From timeless Hollywood icons to modern-day influencers, the cat eye look has consistently been a staple in the beauty realm. It’s that upward sweep, the elongation, and the elegance that transcends trends. Beauty aficionados across the globe have grappled with eyeliners and shadows, vying to capture this iconic look. There’s just something irresistibly alluring about eyes that hold a hint of feline mystery.
But, as any makeup lover knows, achieving the perfect cat eye using just makeup requires a blend of skill, patience, and sometimes a dash of luck. Thankfully, there’s now an even more captivating way to secure this sultry gaze, and it doesn’t involve drawing a flawless wing on both eyes. I’m talking about volume cat eyelash extensions.
What are Volume Cat Eye Lash Extensions?
Volume lashes are not your everyday extensions. Instead of applying a single lash extension to each of your natural lashes, the volume technique involves attaching multiple ultra-fine extensions to a single natural lash. The result? A fuller, richer lash line that can be tailored to a variety of styles. And when this technique is married to the aesthetics of a cat eye, magic happens.
So why should you go for the volume cat eyelash extensions?
There are actually six cat eyelash extensions styles that include the classic, fox, hybrid, squirrel, spike, and of course, the volume. To fully understand the allure, it’s helpful to see where they stand among the spectrum of cat eyelash styles available:
Classic Cat Eye Lashes: The foundational style. One extension is attached to each natural lash, giving a look that’s enhanced yet natural. It’s like your lashes, only a bit better.
Fox Cat Eye Lashes: This style gives lashes a distinct outward flare at the corners, mimicking the look of a fox. It’s seductive and, without a doubt, mesmerizing.
Hybrid Cat Eye Lashes: Striking a balance between the classic and volume techniques, hybrid offers a versatile look that’s both natural and dramatic. A mix of the best, if you will.
Squirrel Cat Eye Lashes: With a focus on elongating the middle lashes, this style gives an open-eyed, bright appearance. Imagine looking forever surprised in the most flattering way.
Spike Cat Eye Lashes: Bold and edgy. These extensions vary in length, giving a staggered, spiky effect that’s not for the faint of heart but is sure to make a statement.
Tips for a Captivating Look with Volume Cat Eye Lash Extensions
Understanding Your Eye Shape:
One of the foundational steps before diving into any lash extension application is to become well-acquainted with your eye shape. Are they almond, round, upturned, or downturned? Each shape has unique characteristics, and by identifying yours, you can position the extensions in a way that enhances and complements your natural beauty. Adjusting the angle, length, and placement of the lashes can make a significant difference in achieving that perfect cat eye effect.
Preparation is Key:
Before applying your volume cat eyelash extensions, ensure your eyelids are clean and free from oils. Use an oil-free makeup remover to clean any residue. Then, with a priming solution or saline solution, prep the lashes. This step not only ensures better adhesion but also extends the life of your extensions.
Aftercare Matters
Once you’ve achieved that gorgeous volume cat eye look, it’s essential to take steps to maintain it. Avoid using oil-based makeup removers or products around the eye area, as these can weaken the glue’s bond. When cleaning your face, be gentle around the eyes, patting dry instead of rubbing. Also, avoid pulling or tugging at the extensions, as this can lead to premature fallout and potential damage to your natural lashes.
Infills for Longevity:
Just as with hair, your natural eyelashes undergo a life cycle, transitioning through phases of growth, shedding, and regrowth. As older lashes naturally fall out and fresh ones sprout, you might notice gaps developing in your extensions. By diligently adding new lashes every 2-3 weeks, you can maintain the fullness and allure of your cat eye appearance.
Personalize Your Look:
Volume cat eyelash extensions offer a defined style, but there’s always room for personal touches. Experiment with varying lengths and curls until you find a combination that resonates with your aesthetic preferences. Remember, the goal is to complement and enhance your natural beauty, so don’t be afraid to make the style uniquely yours.
Complementary Makeup Choices:
With your lashes taking center stage, sometimes a toned-down approach to the rest of your eye makeup can enhance the overall look. Soft eyeshadows, a hint of eyeliner, and a touch of mascara on the lower lashes can perfectly complement your volume cat eye extensions, letting them truly shine.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with DIY Volume Cat Eye Lash Extensions
Overloading with Glue: When you’re excited about applying those stunning volume lashes, it might be tempting to use a generous amount of adhesive. However, less is truly more in this situation. Using too much glue can lead to clumping, making the lashes stick together.
Neglecting Patch Tests: Even if a product is labeled hypoallergenic, it’s always wise to conduct a patch test 24 hours before applying any new adhesive or lash product. Apply a small amount on your inner arm and monitor for any reactions.
Improper Lash Placement: The beauty of the cat eye look lies in the strategic placement of lashes, with the longest lashes towards the outer corners of your eyes. Placing them too close to the inner corner or not following the natural curve of your eyelid can result in an off-balance look. It’s essential to start from the middle of the eye, work your way out, and then fill the inner corners with shorter lashes.
Skipping Aftercare: Your lash journey doesn’t end once the extensions are on. Proper maintenance ensures they look fabulous for longer. Avoid exposing them to steam or direct water 24 hours after application.