Mink vs Synthetic Lashes - What's the Difference?

When it comes to lash extensions, choosing the right material can make all the difference in achieving the perfect look for your clients. Mink and synthetic lashes each offer distinct benefits, from the luxurious, natural softness of real mink to the durability and versatility of high-quality synthetic fibers. Whether you’re catering to clients who prioritize a lightweight feel or those who prefer a long-lasting, low-maintenance option, understanding the key differences between these lash types will help you make the best choice for your services. Let’s break down the pros and cons of mink vs. synthetic lashes so you can offer the best experience for every client.

What Are Mink Lashes?

Mink lashes are made from real mink fur and are loved for their ultra-soft, natural look. They’re feathery and blend well with natural lashes, giving guests that "barely-there" feel.

Pros of Mink Lashes:

• Lightweight: Mink lashes are incredibly soft and light, which helps reduce strain on the guest's lashes.
• Natural Appearance: The fine texture allows mink lashes to blend with their lashes, giving a fluffy, natural look.
• Luxury Appeal: They can be seen as a premium option, attracting a certain type of clientele.

Cons of Mink Lashes:

• Higher Cost: Because they’re made from real fur, mink lashes are more expensive, which means lower service margins and high product cost.
• High Maintenance: They require more care to keep them looking fresh and fluffy, and also don’t hold curls as well as synthetic lash extensions.
• Allergies: Because mink comes from an animal, it can cause irritation depending on the client's allergies and sensitivity. 
• Not Cruelty-Free: Many guests prefer cruelty-free options, so offering mink lashes could be a deal-breaker for ethically conscious clients.

What Are Synthetic Lashes?

Synthetic lashes are made from man-made fibers (often PBT) designed to mimic real natural lashes but with extra durability. They’re available in various thicknesses, curls, and finishes, giving lash artists more versatility when creating custom lash looks. All Borboleta Lash Extensions are faux-mink, made from our custom blend of synthetic yarn fibers.

Pros of Synthetic Lashes:

• Holds Curl Perfectly: Synthetic lashes maintain their curl and shape without extra styling, ensuring the shape of each lash set has longevity.
• Affordable: They’re more budget-friendly than mink, making the cost per service lower than mink lashes.
• Cruelty-Free & Vegan: An easy win for ethically conscious artists and clients who want a lash look without compromising personal values.
• Versatility: Available in a wide range of curls, lengths, and diameters, making them ideal for Classic, Volume, and Mega Volume techniques.

Cons of Synthetic Lashes:

• We can't think of any faux-mink all the way!  

Key Differences Lash Artists Should Consider

• Appearance: Mink lashes offer a natural, wispy finish, while synthetic lashes provide a more consistent look in their shape and finish. 
• Application & Retention: Mink is softer and flexible but may require extra styling since there is a lack of consistency within each extension. Synthetic fibers hold curls better and are lower maintenance when it comes to the quality and integrity of the product.
• Comfort & Weight: Mink is lightweight and soft, while synthetic lashes offer a wide variety of weight options and always offer comfortable wear. 
• Pricing & Profitability: Mink lashes do have a higher price point, which is perfect for an upscale clientele. Synthetic offers an affordable option that attracts a broader guest base.
• Client Preferences: Consider whether your guest prioritizes cruelty-free and vegan products. If so, synthetic lashes are your best bet! 

Which Lashes Work Best for Your Services?

• Classic Extensions: Mink lashes are ideal for a natural, everyday look. Synthetic lashes offer more variety in their definition and structure (diameter and curl variations)  
• Volume & Mega Volume: High-quality synthetic lashes, such as these OG lashes, hold their curl and shape every time, making them perfect for creating dense, fluffy fans or jaw-dropping texture.
• Sensitive Eyes: Because of the soft yarn fibers that Synthetic Lash extensions are made from, they tend to be more comfortable for guests with sensitivities. Mink lashes come from an animal and can cause irritation depending on the client's allergies. 
• Luxury Clients vs. Budget-Conscious Clients: Mink lashes appeal to guests seeking high-end, luxury services, while synthetic lashes provide affordability without sacrificing style.

Shop BorboletaPro Lashes

No matter what lash look you're customizing, BorboletaPro has the ideal faux-mink lashes to bring your artistry to life. From a cashmere feel to our award-winning OG Lashes, they'll provide your sets with that extra dreamy flair for your exceptionally dreamy clients.

Shop BorboletaPro’s Lash extensions