Have you been considering how to get beautiful, eye-catching lashes, but can’t decide whether to choose cluster lashes or eyelash extensions? Both add sparkle to your eyes, but the differences between them are significant. 🤔

Cluster Lashes – Quick and Flexible Solution

Cluster lashes are pre-made lash strips that you can apply and remove yourself at home as needed.

Advantages

The main advantages of cluster lashes are their flexibility and user-friendliness. You can be your own lash technician without salon visits, and the application process takes only 5-15 minutes (up to 30 minutes for beginners).

Flexibility is also a major bonus – you can wear them only for special occasions or daily if you prefer.

Afterglow offers different styles, such as Classic, Wispy, Volume, or Hybrid, which you can choose according to the event or mood. With our lash glue, the clusters stay comfortable for a whole week (5-7 days).

Disadvantages

Cluster lashes require daily attention and sometimes adjustment. Application skills may initially require practice and patience. Additionally, they are a short-term solution that requires regular reapplication.

Eyelash Extensions – Professional Long-term Solution

Eyelash extensions are individual synthetic lashes that a technician attaches to each natural lash separately in a salon.

Advantages

The biggest advantage of eyelash extensions is their long duration – they last 3-6 weeks with proper care. A professional technician creates a personalized look according to your wishes, and the result is generally maintenance-free, meaning they don’t require daily adjustment.

Disadvantages

The main disadvantage of eyelash extensions is their high cost – the initial application typically costs €80-300 depending on the complexity of the style. Additionally, you must account for recurring costs, as fills every 2-3 weeks cost €50-150.

Application is more time-consuming, taking up to 2 hours, plus the time for salon visits. It also requires professional service – a technician and salon visit.

Which Is More Cost-Effective?

Eyelash Extensions Cost:

If the initial application costs an average of €150 and a fill every 3 weeks costs €80, then over the course of a year you might spend:

• Initial application: €150
• Maintenance (8 times a year): €640
• Annual cost: ~€790

Cluster Lashes Cost:

An Afterglow cluster lash kit (including 144 clusters, glue, sealant, remover, and tweezers) costs €35.99 as a one-month kit. Annual cost:

• 12 months x €35.99 = €431.88

This means approximately €358 in savings per year in favor of cluster lashes!

Cluster Lash Application vs Professional Extensions

Applying Cluster Lashes:

1. Clean your lashes with an oil-free makeup remover
2. Apply a thin layer of lash glue to your lash line
3. Attach the first cluster from the outer corner with tweezers under your natural lashes
4. Continue to the inner corner and avoid overlapping clusters
5. Apply sealant after installation
6. After 15 minutes, you can gently squeeze your lashes

You can find the tools needed for application and more detailed instructions in our cluster lash application guide.

Applying Extensions:

1. The technician cleans and prepares the natural lashes
2. Separates the lash hairs from each other
3. Glues a synthetic lash to each natural lash with special adhesive
4. Finalizes the result

Maintenance and Durability

Cluster Lashes:

• Last 5-7 days with proper care
• Avoid excessive water and contact during the first 24 hours
• Avoid oil-based makeup removers
• Gently comb your lashes in the morning

For proper removal and cleaning, read more in our cluster lash cleaning and removal guide.

Eyelash Extensions:

• Last 3-6 weeks but require maintenance every 2-3 weeks
• Avoid oil-based products and strong rubbing
• Don’t use mascara or curl your lashes
• Regular cleaning is necessary with specialized products

Who Are Cluster Lashes For?

Cluster lashes are an ideal choice for you if:

• You want control over your appearance
• You prefer flexibility and different styles
• You’re active (exercise, swimming) and sometimes need lash-free time
• You value a more affordable solution
• You want independence without salon visits

Who Are Eyelash Extensions For?

Eyelash extensions may be a better choice if:

• You don’t have time for daily lash maintenance
• You prefer a one-time long-term solution
• You can afford regular salon visits
• You want professional results without personal effort

What to Choose? Decide According to Your Needs

The choice between cluster lashes and eyelash extensions mainly depends on your lifestyle preferences, budget, and desired results.

If you value flexibility, control over your appearance, and a more affordable price, cluster lashes are your best choice. Clusters allow you to experiment with different styles, and you can conveniently apply and remove them yourself in just 5-15 minutes. 🌟

Explore Afterglow’s selection of cluster lashes and all necessary accessories in our online shop and get 10% off your first order!