Are you curious about wispy eyelash extensions? You might even consider giving wispy lashes a try. If so, this guide is for you!
I’ll cover everything from the application method, the difference with other techniques used, how much they cost, what you can expect from the experience, etc.
Let’s get started!
What Are Wispy Lashes?
Wispy lashes is a lash extension style inspired by Kim Kardashian (sometimes referred to as Kim K lashes) that has a fluffy appearance with noticeable spikes. They quickly became one of the most often requested eyelash extensions because of the very natural look they provide.
There are 3 ways to achieve wispy eyelashes:
- Using a strip of wispy lashes.
- Using mascara and attempting to replicate a wispy look.
- Using eyelash extensions.
When lash extensions first started, only classic lashes were offered where one individual extension would be applied to one natural lash (1:1 ratio). However, women were asking for more! More fluff, more volume, and more feathery lashes.
Over the years, lash artists started to develop new techniques to meet the demand. Wispy lashes is one of them and has definitely stole the show. Now, they are one of the most popular type of lashes requested.
In this article, I will focus on wispy eyelash extensions only because that’s the only way to achieve a truly noticeable and long-lasting strip lash look.
How to Create Wispy Eyelash Extensions?
Wispy eyelash extensions can be tricky to create. Unlike classic or volume eyelash extensions, where the lash artist can apply a relatively uniform set of lash extensions, wispy lashes are a little more “freestyling”.
Follow these steps to create a wispy lash look that your client will love:
Step #1 Prepare the Eyelashes
Before any lash extension application, you must eye pads to cover the lower lashes and prep the lash line. This will make it easier for you to work but also provide comfort for the client.
You must also clean the natural lashes to remove any dirt, makeup, or oil. This will help the lash adhesive to bond properly.
Step #2 Create a Wispy Lash Map
Once the natural lashes are clean and you have placed the eye pads, you can start to create a lash map. This will help you determine where to place each lash extension.
There are various wispy lash maps you can go for.
You generally want to choose shorter wisps for the other corner of the eye and progressively increase the lash length of the wisps as you move towards the center of the eye.
Keep the spikes or wisps 2-3 mm longer than the volume fans used to fill and create fluffiness.
Step #3 Apply the Wisps First
I always recommend applying the wisps first before moving to the volume fans. This will give you a better sense of how to space out the volume fans and achieve an overall more balanced look.
Start from the outer corner of the eye and pick up a wisp with tweezers. Dip the base of the wisp into the adhesive and apply it before it cures.
Approach the natural lash at a 45-degree angle and bond the wisp close to the base of the natural lash. Try to get as close to the root as possible without touching the skin.
Repeat this process until you’ve placed all the wispy lashes.
I generally apply 6 to 10 spikes per eye.
Step #4 Apply the Volume Fans
Now it’s time to move on to the volume fans. The fans will be added between the spikes to add thickness to the lash line.
I generally stick with smaller fans. For example, I like to use 2-6D fans with a thin diameter of 0.03 mm.
I also suggest you only use a handmade lash fan which allows alternating lash lengths easily. Using premade fans goes against the freestyle spirit we are going for.
That’s it!
Carly from LivBay Lash did an excellent wispy eyelash extension video tutorial. Check it out below!
What Are the Wispy Lash Styles Available?
There are 4 main wispy lash styles available:
- Classic wispy lashes
- Hybrid wispy lashes
- Volume wispy lashes
- Mega volume wispy lashes
Let’s take a closer look at each style.
Pro Tip: If you want to know more about the different lash styles available, check out my detailed article on classic lashes vs volume lashes vs hybrid lashes here!
Classic Wispy Lashes
Classic wispy lashes are the thinnest and most natural-looking of all the wispy styles. They are perfect for clients who want a very natural and fluffy look.
For classic wispy eyelash extensions, you will only need individual extensions applied in a 1:1 ratio. The length of the extension will vary to create spikes.
Volume Wispy Lashes
Wispy volume lashes are for clients who want a more dramatic look. They are perfect for special occasions or for clients who want to make a statement with feathery lashes.
For volume wispy eyelash extensions you will need to use 2-6D fans to create the density between the spikes. For the spikes, use a closed fan.
Hybrid Wispy Lashes
Hybrid wispy lashes are a mix of the wispy classic and wispy volume styles. They are perfect for clients who want a fluffy and dramatic look.
For hybrid wispy eyelash extensions, you will need to use both individual lash extensions and 2-6D fans. The individual extensions are used to create the spikes and the fans are used to create the density and volume between the spikes.
Mega Volume Wispy Lashes
Mega volume wispy lashes are the most dramatic of all the wispy styles. They are perfect for clients who want to make a clear statement with their lashes.
For mega volume wispy eyelash extensions, you will need to use some 2-6D fans but mostly bigger 7-12D fans. The 7-12D fans are used to create an even more dramatic look.
A word of caution with mega volume lashes… Always make sure to respect the natural health of the lashes and don’t go too heavy. The last thing you want is to damage the natural lashes.
How to Create a Wispy Lash Map
Wispy lash extension mapping is essential to achieving the perfect look.
When creating a wispy lash map you need to take into account the shape of the eye and the direction, length, and thickness of the natural lashes.
First, decide where to put the spikes. The most popular lash lengths are 10-12 mm. Then choose your fans. Try to keep your fans 2 mm shorter than the spikes for the middle portion of the eye and 1 mm shorter for the outer corners of the eye.
As for the curl pattern, the J-curl and B-curl are the most popular ones, but you can also find C-curl, D-curl, and L-curl lash extensions. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the curls!
Maarleenz did a great wispy lash extension mapping video tutorial for beginners. Check it out below!
How Much Do Wispy Lash Extensions Cost?
The cost of wispy lash extensions varies depending on the style you choose and the salon you go to.
Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $250 for a full set of wispy lash extensions and $80 to $150 for a refill.
Pro Tip: If you want to know more about pricing, check out my research on the average eyelash extension cost here!
How Long Do Wispy Eyelash Extensions Last?
Wispy eyelash extensions can last anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks. The lifespan of the extensions will depend on your natural lash cycle, the quality of the lash extensions, and how well you take care of them.
Did you know that your natural lashes follow a normal cycle where they grow and shed?
The average lash cycle is 6 to 8 weeks. Since wispy lash extensions are attached directly to your eyelashes, it is completely normal for your extensions to fall out as your natural lashes shed.
How to Care For Wispy Lashes
The key to prolonging the life of your wispy lash extensions is to take good care of them. Be gentle with your lashes and avoid rubbing or pulling on them.
Also, be sure to cleanse your lash line daily with an oil-free cleanser. This will help remove any dirt, makeup, or oils that can build up on the lash line and cause the extensions to fall out prematurely.
Finally, be sure to see your lash artist for regular touch-ups every 2 to 4 weeks. This will help keep your lashes looking full and fluffy.
Do Wispy Lashes Damage Natural Lashes?
Just like any other type of eyelash extension, wispy lash extensions can damage natural lashes if they are not applied properly.
If the extensions are applied too heavily they can put unnecessary stress on the natural lashes and cause them to fall out prematurely. This is a common mistake that can ruin your natural lashes.
It is important to consult with a certified lash tech that will respect the capacity of your natural lashes.
Too many times have I seen ridiculously heavy volume fans applied on weak and small natural lashes. This is a recipe for disaster!
Wispy Lashes – Key Takeaways
Wispy lashes have taken the world by storm and are easily one of the most popular lash extension styles today.
Let’s just say that with endorsements from Kim K, it’s no wonder the wispy lash look has become so popular!
This unique style is created by combining “spikes” or “Wisps” with volume fans to achieve a soft and fluffy look.
When done correctly, a wispy lash set can look absolutely stunning. However, they require a great idea of expertise to pull off and should only be done by a professional lash artist.
I hope this guide has given you a better understanding of wispy lashes and everything that goes into them.
If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below!
And as always, thanks for reading!
Stay beautiful!
– Asako
Additional Readings on DivineLashes.ca: If you want to know more about the other lash techniques you can choose from, make sure to read my guide on classic lashes vs hybrid lashes vs volume lashes. Also, choosing the right eyelash extension style is easy once you know what looks good for your particular eye shape!
