Real Mink Lashes: Everything You Need to Know

If you are looking for a way to enhance your natural lashes, you may have heard of real mink lashes. These are eyelash extensions made from the fur of the animal mink, which are known for their softness, lightness, and natural appearance. But what are the benefits and drawbacks of real mink lashes? How are they different from synthetic or silk lashes? And are they ethical and cruelty-free? In this blog post, we will answer these questions and more, so you can decide if real mink lashes are right for you.

What are real mink lashes?

Real mink lashes are eyelash extensions made from the hair of the China or Siberian mink. These animals are farmed for their fur, which is used in the fashion industry. The fur is gently brushed from their tails and sanitized and dyed before being packaged as lash extensions.

Real mink lashes are very fine and fluffy, which gives them a natural look and feel. They are also lightweight and flexible, which means they can be curled and shaped to suit your eye shape and preference. Real mink lashes typically last longer than synthetic or silk lashes, because they are so light and do not weigh down your natural lashes.

How are real mink lashes different from synthetic or silk lashes?

Synthetic or silk lashes are eyelash extensions made from a synthetic material called PBT. This is a plastic substance that has excellent shape memory, does not deform for a long time after processing, and has excellent heat and chemical resistance. PBT is used not only in eyelash extensions but in some common household items such as toothbrushes.

Synthetic or silk lashes have a longer taper, meaning the main body of the lash appears thinner than mink lashes. They also have a semi or fully matte finish, which makes them look less shiny and more natural than mink lashes. Synthetic or silk lashes are cheaper and more widely available than mink lashes, and they are also vegan and cruelty-free.

What are the pros and cons of real mink lashes?

Real mink lashes have some advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before choosing them. Here are some of the pros and cons of real mink lashes:

Pros

• Real mink lashes provide a light, soft, fluffy, and, ultimately more natural look, closely matching natural human lashes.
• Real mink lashes are more durable and can last longer than synthetic or silk lashes, as they do not lose their curl or shape easily.
• Real mink lashes are more comfortable and breathable, as they do not irritate or damage your natural lashes.

Cons

• Real mink lashes are more expensive than synthetic or silk lashes, as they are made from a rare and high-quality material.
• Real mink lashes require more care and maintenance, as they need to be brushed and cleaned regularly to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating.
• Real mink lashes may cause allergic reactions or infections, as they are made from animal fur and may contain bacteria or parasites.

Are real mink lashes ethical and cruelty-free?

One of the most controversial aspects of real mink lashes is their ethical and cruelty-free status. Many people are concerned about the welfare of the animals that are used to produce the fur, and whether they are harmed or killed in the process. The answer to this question is not straightforward, as different manufacturers and suppliers may have different standards and practices.

Some manufacturers claim that their real mink lashes are ethical and cruelty-free, as they only use the fur that is naturally shed or brushed from the animals, and that they do not harm or kill them. They also claim that they follow strict animal welfare guidelines and regulations, and that they provide the animals with adequate food, water, shelter, and veterinary care.

However, some animal rights activists and organizations dispute these claims, and argue that real mink lashes are inherently unethical and cruel, as they exploit and commodify the animals for their fur . They also allege that the animals are kept in cramped and filthy cages, and that they suffer from stress, disease, injury, and abuse . They also point out that there is no way to verify the source and quality of the fur, and that there is no independent certification or regulation of the industry .

Ultimately, the choice of whether to use real mink lashes or not is up to you, as a consumer and an individual. You should do your own research and make an informed decision based on your values, preferences, and budget. You should also be aware of the alternatives, such as synthetic or silk lashes, which are more affordable, accessible, and animal-friendly.

FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about real mink lashes:

Q: How do I apply real mink lashes?

A: Real mink lashes can be applied by a professional lash technician, or by yourself at home. If you choose to apply them yourself, you will need some tools and supplies, such as lash glue, tweezers, scissors, and a lash curler. You will also need to follow some steps, such as:

• Clean and dry your natural lashes and eyelids, and remove any makeup or oil.
• Trim the real mink lashes to fit your eye shape and size, and curl them with a lash curler if needed.
• Apply a thin layer of lash glue along the lash band, and wait for a few seconds until it becomes tacky.
• Place the real mink lashes on your lash line, starting from the outer corner and working your way inwards. Adjust the position and angle of the lashes with tweezers if needed.
• Press the real mink lashes gently against your natural lashes and eyelid, and hold for a few seconds until they are secure.
• Repeat the process for the other eye, and enjoy your new look.

Q: How do I remove real mink lashes?

A: Real mink lashes can be removed easily and safely, without damaging your natural lashes or eyelids. You will need some tools and supplies, such as cotton pads, eye makeup remover, and tweezers. You will also need to follow some steps, such as:

• Soak a cotton pad with eye makeup remover, and gently press it on your eyelid for a few seconds to dissolve the lash glue.
• Gently peel off the real mink lashes from your lash line, starting from the outer corner and working your way inwards. Use tweezers if needed to remove any remaining glue or lash fibers.
• Clean and moisturize your natural lashes and eyelids, and store the real mink lashes in a clean and dry place for future use.

Q: How do I care for real mink lashes?

A: Real mink lashes require more care and maintenance than synthetic or silk lashes, as they are more delicate and prone to damage. You will need to follow some tips, such as:

• Brush the real mink lashes regularly with a spoolie or a lash comb to keep them fluffy and tangle-free.
• Clean the real mink lashes after every use with a gentle cleanser and water, and pat them dry with a paper towel or a cotton pad.
• Avoid using mascara, eyeliner, or other eye makeup products on the real mink lashes, as they may ruin their texture and quality.
• Avoid exposing the real mink lashes to heat, humidity, or water, as they may lose their curl or shape.
• Store the real mink lashes in a clean and dry place, preferably in their original packaging or a lash case, to protect them from dust and dirt.

Q: How long do real mink lashes last?

A: Real mink lashes can last longer than synthetic or silk lashes, depending on how well you care for them and how often you use them. Generally, real mink lashes can last for up to 25 wears, or even more if you treat them with extra care and attention. However, you should replace them when they start to look worn out, frayed, or uneven.

Conclusion

Real mink lashes are eyelash extensions made from the fur of the animal mink, which are known for their softness, lightness, and natural appearance. They have some benefits and drawbacks that you should consider before choosing them, such as their cost, durability, comfort, and ethical and cruelty-free status. You should also know how to apply, remove, and care for them properly, and how long they can last. Real mink lashes are not for everyone, but they may be the perfect option for you if you are looking for a luxurious and realistic lash enhancement.