Have you ever wondered what determines the look of eyelash extensions? The curve is one of the most important factors in selecting the right lashes to create your ideal look. This guide will break down the various curl types and help you determine the best for your eye shape and desired result.
Lash Curl Is the Key Factor in Selecting Eyelash Extensions
The curl of the individual lashes plays a huge role in the overall appearance and opening up of the eye area. Like natural lashes, extension curls come in different curves to suit different tastes and shapes. Knowing the curl chart assists lash artists in hand-picking lashes that flatter each unique client. If you are interested read about brow gel as mascara.
Eyelash Extension Curl Chart
The eyelash extension curl chart categorizes curls into three main groups based on their curve – subtle, dramatic, and lifted curls. Within those groups are specific letters that further define the degree of arch.
Subtle Curls (J, B Curl)
Offering a soft, natural enhancement, subtle curls have a gentle S-shaped curve. The two main kinds are:
J Curl: The tiniest of bends, ideal for a young, fresh-face look.
B Curl: Slightly more refined than a J, the B curl opens up the eyes without dramatic flair. It’s a top choice for work-appropriate makeup.
Dramatic Curls (C, CC, D Curls)
For a more glamorous effect, dramatic curls feature prominent arches.
C Curl: Medium-thickness lashes with a strong C-like bend. Commonly used to create fuller volume.
CC Curl: Thicker than C curls, with a tighter inward curve. CC lashes deliver ultra-dramatic lashes that really “wow”.
Lifted Curls (M, L, L+ Curls)
Meant to take eyelashes to new heights, lifted curls have various degrees of uplifting arches.
B Curl Eyelash Extensions
The B curl lash is one of the most versatile curls due to its subtle yet noticeably lifted appearance. With a gentle S-shape curve upwards, B curl lashes suit a wide array of eye shapes and tastes. Some key advantages of the B curl include:
Balanced look: The balanced bend of the B curl lash does not lean too far inward or outward, making it flattering for most eye shapes.
Natural enhancement: When applied skillfully, B curl lashes blend seamlessly with one’s natural lash line for an imperceptibly boosted look.
Daytime appropriate: The understated curve allows B curl lashes to be work-appropriate while still opening up the eyes. They don’t appear overly dramatic.
Good for sensitive eyes: As the bend is soft, B curl lashes are less likely than more curved styles to irritate sensitive eyes over time.
Volume and length options: B curl lashes come in various thicknesses from natural to dramatic, and lengths from short to long, providing versatility.
Some examples of when the B curl particularly suits include:
- Hooded or monolid eyes: The subtle lift counters droopiness.
- Close-set eyes: The gentle curve doesn’t exacerbate a crowded look.
- Mature eyes: Softly enhance without looking unnatural.
- Office wear: Provides an enhanced look without seeming overdone.
C Curl Eyelash Extensions
Moving to a more dramatic lash curl, C curl eyelash extensions feature a pronounced C-shaped curve. Some key attributes of the C curl include:
Defined Lift: The prominent inward curve of the C curl provides visibly lifted lashes with a strong definition.
Creates Fullness: When applied with multiple layers in a seamless fan technique, C curl lashes together to create a wide-eyed, voluminous look.
Ideal for Special Occasions: The dramatic bend makes C curls suitable for glamorous evenings out, parties, special events, or photoshoots where a striking eye look is desired.
Accentuates Eye Color: The lifted arc directs attention beautifully to eye coloring and makeup, whether subtle neutrals or bold hues.
Makes Eyes Appear Larger: The opening inward curve gives the illusion of wider, doe-like eyes.
Variety of Angles: C curl lashes come in different bend degrees, from a soft C to an almost-circular curl.
Thickness Options: While generally used for fuller volumes, thin C curls in short lengths also accent lashlines delicately.
Some face shapes that the C curl particularly accentuates include:
- Round faces: Creates a definition of the eye area.
- Deep-set eyes: Brings eyes forward.
- Monolids: Lifts lid space.
- Almond eyes: Plays up the shape.
Lifted Curls (M, L, L+ Curls)
Taking lashes to new heights, lifted curls feature various degrees of uplifting curves. Here’s a breakdown:
M Curl: Characterized by a subtle backward “M” shape, M curls softly lift at the outer corners for a natural, wide-eyed effect.
L Curl: Similar to an “L” shape, L curls lift upwards from the outer edges and then flatten out horizontally. Creates an elongated eye shape.
L+ Curl: The plus signifies an exaggerated L curve that lifts lashes high. Creates extreme elongation and a sultry, doe-eyed look.
Some key qualities of lifted curls:
- Heightened appeal: The upwards angles make the eyes appear more alluring.
- Elongate eye shape: Especially L and L+ curls stretch the eyes horizontally.
- Accentuate makeup: The lifted placement emphasizes eyeliner and shadows.
- Flatter deep-set eyes: By raising outer corners, lifted curls bring forward recessed eyes.
- Require skilled application: Proper layering is needed to avoid a sparse look with lifted curls.
- Best for evenings: Extreme lifted curls like L+ are dramatic so reserved for night.
Lash Extension Curls and Angles
The curl of the lash is one factor, but the angle it is applied also contributes to the overall look. Lash techs carefully consider both curl and angle when applying extensions.
Inward Angles:
- C curls and others applied with an inward slant create lifted fullness.
- Brings eyes inward for a peri-ocular appearance.
Outward Angles:
- B curls angled out slightly flare the lashline for an open-eye effect.
- Works well for monoids to reveal lid space.
Upward Angles:
- Lifted curls like M and L are placed going upwards at corners.
- Elongates and lifts outer eyes for sultry appeal.
Downward Angles:
- Inner lashes near tear ducts angle down against eye shape.
- Outer lashes can angle down at the ends for a wispier look.
Knowing Eye Shape:
- Hooded lids use more lift and outward placement.
- Deep-set eyes prefer lifted and flared placement.
- Close-set uses subtle inward angles to widen spacing.
How to Choose the Best Lash Curl?
With so many curl options, how do you determine the best one? Here are some guidelines for choosing:
Consider Your Eye Shape: Hooded lids suit subtle or lifted curls more than dramatic curves. Almond eyes can handle most curls.
Evaluate Desired Look: Want natural glamour? B or CC curls complement. Dramatic evenings call for C or lifted curls.
Try On Sample Curls: Have your lash tech apply different curls temporarily so you can examine the result in mirrors.
Consult Professional Opinion: A skilled lash artist can advise which curls flatter your particular eye shape and features best.
Experiment Gradual: If unsure, start with a middle-ground curl like B or CC then try bolder styles next time.
Pay Attention to Placement: Curl is one thing, but angle and layering influence the overall effect.
Consider Lash Length: On shorter lashes, very curved curls may not show as well as on longer, fuller sets.
Balance with Look: Dramatic curls call for bold liner and shadows versus natural day looks.
Comfort Level: Make sure the chosen curl feels comfortable on your eyes without strain.
Lash Extension Thickness
Just as crucial as curl selection is choosing the right lash thickness. Thinner lashes create natural subtlety while thicker lashes are ideal for glamour. Some thickness factors to consider:
Natural vs Dramatic: Thin lashes replicate a natural look. Extra thick provides ultra volume.
Eye Shape: Small eyes flatter thin or medium lashes instead of thicker for a more open effect.
Activities: Thin lashes suit everyday activity while thicker hold curls better through exercise.
Blink Frequency: Frequent blinkers may disturb thicker lashes more so than thin ones.
Touch-Ups: Applying thin lashes leaves room to add thickness incrementally at fills.
Placement: Inner and outer lashes can be thin with thick bands in between for definition.
Cost: Generally, thinner lashes result in faster, more affordable applications than dramatic volumes.
How to Choose the Right Thickness
To determine the best thickness:
- Consider eye size: small eyes suit thin-medium while large eyes frame thick-extra thick lashes
- Examine lid space: thick lashes overpower tight monoids whereas hooded lids accommodate thickness
- Evaluate natural lash density: sparse lashes require thickness versus full natural lashes suit light-medium
- Consult lash artist expertise: A pro can recommend thickness based on up-close lid examination
- Try samples: Temporary thickness tests help choose the most flattering volume level
With guidance from an experienced lash technician factored by individual features, selecting precisely the right lash thickness creates balanced, long-lasting extensions perfectly enhanced to one’s eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different lash curls?
The primary curls are B, C, and CC for subtle-dramatic effects. Lifted curls include M, L, and L+. Each has a distinctive curve shape.
Which lash is curlier C or D?
There is no true “D” curl. The curl most dramatic after C is CC, which has a rounded inward curve versus C’s sharp angle.
How do I know what lash curl to use?
Consider your eye shape and desired look. A lash pro can also assess in person and recommend the best curl based on your features.
What is the average lash curl?
The most commonly used curls are the moderate B and CC shapes. They provide natural enhancement suitable for daily wear. C curls are also popular but bolder.
What is the most popular lash curl?
The balanced B curl is one of the most versatile and universally flattering. It provides a subtle lift without being overly dramatic. C curls are also widely used when wanting a glamorous effect.
Can lift curls damage natural lashes?
When applied properly by a professional, any lash curl is safe for natural lashes. Overbending or frequent removal/reapplication could potentially cause damage over time. Maintaining a relaxed eye area also protects natural lashes.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect lash curl is an essential aspect of creating your ideal eyelash extensions look. Taking the time to understand your eye shape and preferences will guide you to curls that beautifully enhance your natural features.
While this guide covered the main eyelash curl types, keep in mind there is no single “best” curl – what matters most is finding the one that makes you feel confident and lifts your eyes in a way that flatters your beauty. Consultation with an experienced lash artist can help tremendously in that customized determination.
A seasoned beauty enthusiast, Rachel James has honed her craft in beauty style innovation over 7 years, blending artistry with precision to redefine beauty allure.
