If you have natural red hair, you may also have ginger eyelashes. These are eyelashes that have a reddish or orange hue, making them stand out from the usual black or brown lashes. Ginger eyelashes are rare and beautiful, but they can also pose some challenges when it comes to makeup, lash extensions, and tinting. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about ginger eyelashes and give you some tips and tricks to make them look amazing.
What Causes Ginger Eyelashes?
Ginger eyelashes are caused by the same genetic factor that causes red hair: a mutation in the MC1R gene. This gene controls the production of melanin, the pigment that gives color to your hair, skin, and eyes. Melanin comes in two types: eumelanin and pheomelanin. Eumelanin is dark and gives black or brown color, while pheomelanin is lighter and gives red or yellow color. People with ginger eyelashes have more pheomelanin and less eumelanin in their eyelashes, resulting in a lighter and warmer color.
How Common Are Ginger Eyelashes?
Ginger eyelashes are very rare, just like red hair. Only about 1-2% of the world’s population has red hair, and even fewer have ginger eyelashes. Some people may have red hair but not ginger eyelashes, or vice versa. This is because the MC1R gene can be expressed differently in different parts of the body. For example, some people may have red hair on their head, but brown hair on their eyebrows or eyelashes. This is called incomplete penetrance, and it means that the gene does not always show its full effect.
How to Enhance Ginger Eyelashes with Makeup?
Ginger eyelashes can be tricky to enhance with makeup, because they can easily get lost or overpowered by dark or bright colors. Here are some tips to make your ginger eyelashes pop with makeup:
- Use a lash primer. A lash primer is a white or clear product that you apply before mascara to coat and thicken your lashes. This will help your ginger eyelashes stand out more and create a base for your mascara to adhere to.
- Choose a mascara that matches or complements your eyelash color. If you want to keep your natural ginger color, look for a mascara that has a reddish or coppery tone. If you want to add some contrast or drama, look for a mascara that has a brown or black tone. Avoid blue, green, or purple mascaras, as they can clash with your eyelash color and make them look dull or unnatural.
- Apply mascara in thin coats and wiggle the wand from the roots to the tips. This will help you avoid clumps and flakes and give you more control over the intensity and shape of your lashes. You can also use a lash comb or a clean spoolie to separate and define your lashes after applying mascara.
- Curl your lashes. Curling your lashes will lift and open up your eyes, making your ginger eyelashes more visible and flattering. Use an eyelash curler before applying mascara and hold it for a few seconds at the base, middle, and tip of your lashes. Be gentle and avoid tugging or pulling your lashes, as this can damage them or cause them to fall out.
How to Get Ginger Eyelash Extensions?
If you want to add some length, volume, or curl to your ginger eyelashes, you may consider getting eyelash extensions. Eyelash extensions are synthetic or natural fibers that are attached to your natural lashes with a special glue. They can last for several weeks, depending on how you care for them and how fast your natural lashes grow.
However, finding ginger eyelash extensions can be difficult, as most salons only offer black or brown extensions. You may have to do some research and ask around to find a salon that offers ginger eyelash extensions, or request a custom order from a reputable online store. Alternatively, you can opt for colored eyelash extensions, such as red, orange, or gold, to create a fun and unique look.
Here are some things to keep in mind when getting ginger eyelash extensions:
- Choose a style that suits your eye shape and personal preference. Eyelash extensions come in different lengths, thicknesses, curls, and patterns. You can choose a natural, classic, or dramatic look, depending on how many lashes are applied and how they are arranged. You can also mix and match different colors and styles to create a customized look.
- Follow the aftercare instructions carefully. Eyelash extensions require some maintenance and care to keep them looking good and prevent infections or irritations. You should avoid getting your eyelash extensions wet, rubbing your eyes, using oil-based products, or sleeping on your face. You should also brush your eyelash extensions gently with a clean spoolie every day to keep them neat and tidy.
- Get regular refills. Eyelash extensions will shed naturally with your natural lashes, leaving gaps and unevenness. To keep your eyelash extensions looking full and fresh, you should get them refilled every 2-4 weeks, depending on how fast your natural lashes grow and how well you care for them.
How to Tint Ginger Eyelashes?
If you want to darken or change the color of your ginger eyelashes, you may consider tinting them. Tinting is a process that involves applying a semi-permanent dye to your eyelashes to enhance their color and definition. Tinting can last for 4-6 weeks, depending on how often you wash your face and how fast your natural lashes grow.
However, tinting ginger eyelashes can be risky, as it can damage your lashes or cause allergic reactions or infections. Tinting is not regulated by the FDA, and some of the ingredients used in the dye can be harmful to your eyes. Therefore, you should only get your eyelashes tinted by a licensed professional who has experience and training in tinting ginger eyelashes. You should also do a patch test before the procedure to check for any adverse reactions.
Here are some things to keep in mind when tinting ginger eyelashes:
- Choose a color that matches or complements your eyelash color. If you want to keep your natural ginger color, look for a tint that has a reddish or coppery tone. If you want to add some contrast or drama, look for a tint that has a brown or black tone. Avoid blue, green, or purple tints, as they can clash with your eyelash color and make them look dull or unnatural.
- Follow the pre-tinting and post-tinting instructions carefully. Before tinting your eyelashes, you should remove any makeup, oil, or dirt from your eyes and lashes. You should also avoid using any products that contain alcohol, peroxide, or ammonia, as they can interfere with the tinting process or cause irritation. After tinting your eyelashes, you should avoid getting your eyelashes wet, rubbing your eyes, using oil-based products, or exposing your eyes to sunlight for at least 24 hours. You should also apply a lash serum or conditioner to nourish and protect your lashes.
- Repeat the process as needed. Tinting your eyelashes will fade gradually with time, leaving your natural ginger color behind. To maintain your desired eyelash color, you should repeat the tinting process every 4-6 weeks, depending on how fast your natural lashes grow and how often you wash your face.
Conclusion
Ginger eyelashes are a rare and beautiful feature that can make your eyes stand out and express your personality. However, they can also pose some challenges when it comes to makeup, lash extensions, and tinting. By following the tips and tricks in this blog post, you can enhance your ginger eyelashes and make them look amazing. Remember to always consult a professional before getting any eyelash treatments and to take good care of your lashes. We hope you enjoyed this blog post and learned something new about ginger eyelashes. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. Thank you for reading!