5 Tips for Working With M Curl Lash Extensions
If you’re a lash artist looking to expand your skill set or stay ahead of the latest lash trends, M curl lash extensions are a must-know. With their unique shape and eye-opening effect, they’ve become a favorite among clients who crave drama without sacrificing a natural look. But working with M curl requires a bit of know-how—from understanding who it’s best for to mastering application techniques. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about M curl lashes, including our top 5 tips for flawless results.
What Is M Curl?
First things first: Let’s define what makes M curl lash extensions stand out. M curl gets its name from its distinct shape, which resembles the letter “M” when viewed from the side. Unlike other curl types (like C curl, which has a gentle curve, or D curl, which is more dramatic), M curl features a sharp, angular peak in the middle, followed by a softer taper at the ends. This unique design creates two key effects: it lifts the lashes dramatically at the root, and it adds volume and dimension without looking overly heavy.
M curl lashes are typically available in a range of lengths and thicknesses, making them versatile for different lash looks—from natural everyday styles to bold, red-carpet-worthy sets. They’re made from high-quality synthetic materials (like PBT, which is lightweight and durable), so they’re comfortable for clients to wear and long-lasting when applied correctly.
Who Does M Curl Work For?
While M curl is a versatile option, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. To ensure client satisfaction, it’s important to match the curl type to their natural lash structure and desired look. Here are the key client profiles that M curl works best for:
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Clients with straight or downward-turned natural lashes: M curl’s strong lift at the root is perfect for counteracting straight or downward lashes. It creates an instant “wide-awake” effect by lifting the lashes away from the eyelid, opening up the eyes.
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Clients with medium to thick natural lashes: M curl requires a sturdy base to adhere to. Clients with thin or sparse natural lashes may find that M curl is too heavy, leading to premature shedding. For these clients, opt for a lighter curl (like C curl) or pair M curl with lighter thicknesses.
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Clients who want drama without extreme length: If a client loves the look of dramatic lashes but doesn’t want overly long extensions, M curl is ideal. Its angular shape adds volume and lift, creating drama without needing to use ultra-long lengths.
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Clients with hooded eyes (with caution): Hooded eyes have a fold of skin that covers the upper eyelid, which can cause lashes to press against the skin. M curl’s lift can help prevent this, but be sure to choose a shorter length to avoid the lashes touching the brow bone. A consultation is key here to test the fit!
Our Top Tips for Working With M Curl
Now that you know what M curl is and who it’s for, let’s dive into our expert tips for working with this curl type. These techniques will help you achieve flawless, long-lasting results every time:
1. Prep the Natural Lashes Thoroughly
M curl’s adhesion relies heavily on clean, dry natural lashes. Before application, use a gentle, oil-free lash cleanser to remove any makeup, dirt, or oils from the client’s lashes. Avoid using cotton pads (which can leave lint); instead, use a microfiber brush or lint-free applicator. After cleansing, dry the lashes completely with a fan—moisture can break down the lash glue, leading to poor retention. Additionally, comb through the natural lashes to separate them, ensuring each lash is isolated for individual application.
2. Choose the Right Length and Thickness
When selecting M curl lashes, err on the side of shorter lengths for most clients. Since M curl has a dramatic lift, longer lengths can create a “spider leg” effect or cause the lashes to curl back onto themselves. A good rule of thumb is to use lengths that are 1-2mm longer than the client’s natural lashes. For thickness, stick to 0.15mm-0.20mm for natural looks and 0.20mm-0.25mm for more voluminous sets. Avoid using thick lashes on clients with thin natural lashes—this can weigh down the natural lash and cause breakage.
3. Master the Adhesion Angle
The key to M curl’s lift is applying it at the correct angle. Hold the M curl extension with your lash tweezers and position it so that the peak of the M aligns with the middle of the natural lash. Apply a small amount of lash glue to the base of the extension (about 2mm from the tip) and attach it to the natural lash, 1-2mm away from the lash line. Avoid attaching the extension too close to the root, as this can cause irritation. For downward-turned lashes, angle the extension slightly upward to maximize lift.
4. Blend with Natural Lashes for a Seamless Look
To avoid a “strip lash” effect, blend M curl extensions with the client’s natural lashes. Use a mix of lengths (e.g., 8mm-11mm) to create a gradient effect, with shorter lashes at the inner corner and longer lashes at the outer corner. This mimics the natural lash growth pattern and makes the set look more natural. After application, comb through the lashes with a lash brush to separate any clumps and ensure the M curl peaks are evenly spaced.
5. Educate Clients on Aftercare
Proper aftercare is essential for extending the life of M curl lash extensions. Advise clients to avoid getting their lashes wet for the first 24 hours after application (this allows the glue to fully cure). Tell them to avoid rubbing or pulling on the lashes, and to use an oil-free lash cleanser and brush daily to keep the lashes clean. Discourage the use of waterproof mascara, as it can break down the glue, and recommend scheduling fills every 2-3 weeks to maintain the look.
Shop the Best Lash Extension Supplies at Lashin Out
To create stunning M curl lash sets, you need high-quality supplies. At KOLYBEL, we offer a wide range of M curl lash extensions in various lengths, thicknesses, and styles—from classic individual lashes to volume fans. Our lashes are made from premium PBT material, which is lightweight, soft, and resistant to shedding. We also carry professional-grade lash glue (available in different drying times to suit your speed), lash tweezers (precision and volume options), and aftercare products (cleansers, brushes, and serums) to help you deliver exceptional results.
M curl lash extensions are a game-changer for lash artists and clients alike. With their unique shape and eye-opening effect, they’re perfect for anyone looking to add lift and dimension to their lashes. By following our top tips and using high-quality supplies from Lashin Out, you’ll be able to create flawless M curl sets that keep clients coming back for more.