Silk vs. Faux Mink Lashes: A Guide for Lash Technicians

As Lash Technicians, the controversy over mink lashes is likely on your radar. The pushback against using mink fur for eyelash extensions has grown over the years, driven by concerns over animal cruelty. Despite this, some suppliers still offer mink lashes, branding them as 'cruelty-free'.

A study by Glamour magazine last year revealed that claims of 'cruelty-free' mink lashes, supposedly made from naturally shed fur, don't hold up. Animal rights activists highlight the poor conditions minks are kept in, arguing it's impossible for mink lashes to be truly cruelty-free. In response to rising consumer consciousness, many eyelash extension suppliers, including us, London Lash, have developed authentic cruelty-free faux mink lashes, achieving the same lush look as genuine mink. The question still stands: what is the difference, and what are the alternatives? We’ll be comparing two popular alternatives: faux mink and silk lashes.

What Are Faux Mink Lashes?

Starting with the basics, faux mink lashes are a vegan, cruelty-free alternative to mink lashes, mimicking the feel and lightweight nature of real mink fur.

What Are Faux Mink Lashes Made Of?

These high-quality synthetic lashes are crafted from manmade PBT fibers. Faux mink lashes are perfect for those avoiding real mink for ethical reasons or those allergic to animal fur, but they also have so many more pros than using the real thing, which we’ll get on to.

What's the Difference Between Faux Mink & Silk Lashes?

Silk lashes are a type of mid-weight eyelash extensions that are made from synthetic silk fibers. They offer a more natural look when compared to faux mink lashes. At London Lash, our Chelsea Silk Lashes have a matte finish, while our Mayfair Faux Mink lashes have a shinier, bolder finish.

Both types are suitable for Classic and Volume lash sets, depending on your preference. Some technicians find the Mayfair Faux Mink lashes easier for creating fans due to a less sticky strip compared to the Chelsea silk lashes.

Do They Both Come in a Variety of Thicknesses, Lengths, & Curls?

Yes! Our Mayfair faux mink lashes come in thicknesses from 0.03 to 0.20, while our Chelsea silk lashes range from 0.04 to 0.20. Both options offer a variety of curls and lengths, allowing for customized lash looks, so choosing between the two entirely depends on the desired overall finish.

Longevity: Faux Mink vs. Silk Lashes

With proper pretreatment, both lash types offer excellent retention, lasting up to 8 weeks. But then again, the key to longevity is a solid pretreatment routine and proper aftercare by clients, so if this isn’t followed, your clients' retention will never be top-notch.

Interestingly, real mink lashes are less durable than their synthetic counterparts. Real mink lashes don't retain their curl well and require more maintenance, which is less than ideal for those seeking low-maintenance extensions. Additionally, getting them wet can shorten their lifespan and increase the risk of eye infections like blepharitis due to not being able to clean them!

Are Silk Lashes Cruelty-Free?

Yes, like faux mink lashes, silk lashes are made from synthetic fibers, ensuring they are completely cruelty-free and animal-friendly! It's worth noting that lashes marketed as "silk" are almost always synthetic, making genuine silk lashes a rarity in the market.

So, which will you choose? The choice between faux mink and silk lashes offers a win-win for both Lash Technicians and clients seeking ethical beauty solutions without sacrificing style or quality. These cruelty-free alternatives not only match the lush, voluminous look of traditional mink lashes but also come with the added benefits. Whether you prefer the matte elegance of silk Chelsea lashes or the glossy finish of faux mink Mayfair, embracing these synthetic options means you can enjoy beautiful lashes while supporting a cruelty-free beauty industry. It's a small but powerful way to align your beauty choices with your values, proving that ethical choices in beauty don't mean compromising on luxury or aesthetics.