A knockout set of lashes is one of those things that you don’t want to forgo if you’re headed to a special event or a night out with your BFF. 

If you’re on a budget (and let’s face it, most of us are), then you want to get the best value for your dollar when it comes to your long, fluttery lashes. 

Eyelash extensions and magnetic lashes are two popular options for fake lashes, and the cost between the two is pretty dramatic. Save the drama for the lashes; we’ll explain how you can save money and time with your next lash set. 

What Are Eyelash Extensions?

Eyelash extensions are individual synthetic, silk, or mink fiber lashes that are glued onto your natural lashes. They are glued individually or in clusters, depending on the volume of the lash you want. There are usually classic, volume, and hybrid lash sets available, depending on the salon you go to.

These extensions can be applied to have a natural everyday look or a more dramatic, long, and voluminous style. Lash extensions are very versatile and fun to wear.

How Are Lash Extensions Applied?

Lash extensions are applied at a lash bar or salon by a professional cosmetologist, esthetician, or licensed lash expert. The professional must follow many sanitation and application procedures to give you a healthy lash application. Healthy lash applications prevent bacteria from migrating to your eyes, causing infection. 

The glue used for lash extensions contains chemicals that can be harmful if not applied with care. The main ingredient in most lash glues is cyanoacrylate. It is a bonding agent that is fast-drying and—you guessed it—highly toxic. 

How Long Do Lash Extensions Last?

Lash extensions last as long as your natural lash growth cycle. The lash growth cycle for most people is about six to eight weeks. Most lash specialists recommend a lash retouch at three to four weeks. 

As your natural lashes shed through the growth cycle, they take the extension with them. After a few weeks, your lashes will begin to look sparse. For this reason, refills are needed, which is an additional cost.

Lash Extension Maintenance

Lash extensions have some maintenance rules that you must follow to keep them in the best condition possible. 

After their initial application, you should keep your lash extensions dry for 48 hours. Water will make the glue lose its grip, causing premature shedding of the lashes. 

After the first 48 hours, it is generally recommended to avoid getting the lashes wet or minimize it, too. Again, the glue will become weak and cause the lashes to fall out sooner than expected.

Premature lash shedding will cost your wallet some sudden shedding of cash too. You’ll need refills more often if you don’t take care of your lashes.

How Long Does a Lash Extension Application Take?

Lash extensions take time to apply since the lashes are being glued individually to each of your natural lashes. It is also important for the person applying the lashes to take their time using glue near the eyes. 

Depending on which type of lashes you choose, the application process will take anywhere from one and a half and three hours to complete. 

How Much Do Lash Extensions Cost?

The cost of lash extensions ranges depending on which type of material is used for the lashes. The volume and length of the lash set affect the price too. 

Classic lash sets, which have a more natural look, usually cost between $150-$200 for a complete set. Lash sets with more volume (more lash clusters) cost between $200-$300. 

Mink lashes cost more, at upwards of $300 per set. Lash refills will set you back between $55-$95 per session. 

What Are Magnetic Lashes?

Magnetic lashes are lash fibers that are attached to a lash band. The band has six tiny magnets attached to it that stick to a magnetic eyeliner you apply to your upper lash line. 

Our magnetic lashes come in mink and synthetic vegan varieties. Magnetic lashes are available in long, natural, and high-volume versions, just like lash extensions. 

How Are Magnetic Lashes Applied

Instead of the use of glue, magnetic lashes are applied with a magnetic eyeliner. You can place this eyeliner along the upper lash line just like how you’d apply regular eyeliner. 

Magnetic liner contains iron oxide, which has magnetic properties. These magnetic elements allow the lashes to grip firmly to the magnetic liner for an all-day hold. 

How Long Do Magnetic Lashes Last?

Magnetic lashes can be worn all day and easily removed at night—no more pulling to get off sticky lash glue. Glamnetic magnetic lashes are reusable, too, as long as you care for them according to the instructions. 

Whether you choose a natural lash or a more dramatic one, the wear time is the same for both. Plus, there’s no need for lash retouches, so you can save money there. 

Magnetic Lash Maintenance

Magnetic lashes are effortless to maintain. After a day’s wear, carefully remove the lash band by slowly peeling it from the outer corner to the inner corner. 

Use micellar water or oil-free makeup remover and a cotton swab or Cotton Candy pad to gently rub off any magnetic liner that may be left on the lash band. 

When they are clean, place them back into their original box for storage until you’re ready to use them again. The lashes need to be stored in a cool, dry place. 

Remove the magnetic liner from your upper lash line with micellar water or oil-free makeup remover in the same way. Make sure to always use oil-free makeup remover because the oil will cause damage if it makes contact with the lashes.

How Long do Magnetic Lashes Take to Apply?

Magnetic lashes take only a few minutes to apply! Since all lash fibers are attached to a single band, they go on all at once. 

All you have to do is apply the magnetic liner and lay the lash band on top. Easy peasy!

How Much Do Magnetic Lashes Cost?

Glamnetic magnetic lashes are much less expensive than lash extensions, costing only $29.99 per pair. The cost of retouches is eliminated with magnetic lashes, making the overall cost of magnetic lashes a much more affordable option.

Cost of Lash Extensions vs. Magnetic Lashes

We think it’s obvious that magnetic lashes are much more affordable than lash extensions. Not only do they cost less for the initial set of lashes, but magnetic lashes don’t require costly refills. Using magnetic lashes will save you hundreds of dollars in the long run!

To Sum It Up

Lash extensions and magnetic lashes are two popular false eyelash options. You can wear them in a natural everyday look or with added drama and volume. 

Magnetic lashes are less expensive, less messy, safer, and easier to apply than lash extensions. Glamnetic magnetic lashes are available in many style choices. You can even match a style to your eye shape. So, save some green and opt for magnetic lashes. You’ll be glad you did.

Sources:

What Are Lash Extensions - Pros and Cons of Lash Extensions | Town & Country Mag

Lash Extensions Vs. Glue-On & Magnetic Lashes | Medium

Eyelash Extensions: How Long They Last, How Much They Cost, and More | Glamour

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