BEAUTY
The Rise of Lash Clusters —The New Extensions??
By: Ava Savino Edited by: Rezi Ubogu
The eyelash extensions we know today didn’t always exist. Modern lash extensions began gaining popularity in the early 2000s with the introduction of synthetic lash clusters. Though not as refined as what we see now, these early versions were a major departure from the thick adhesive strips familiar in North America. Rooted in Korean and Japanese beauty practices, lash extensions took some time to catch on in the global West, but once they did, the trend exploded.
Interestingly, eyelash enhancements aren’t exactly new. The entertainment industry has been experimenting with them for over a century. The 1916 film Intolerance is believed to be the first to use homemade extensions to emphasize an actress’s eyes on screen. By 2024, the lash industry had grown to an impressive $1.6 billion and shows no signs of slowing down. Not to mention, the demand is real—with searches up 150% in the last year alone. It’s exciting to see a once-niche, often marginalized space evolve into a thriving community filled with opportunity and growth.
Modern eyelash extensions are all about precision. Each individual extension, or “fan,” is carefully attached to a single natural lash using a medical-grade adhesive. This method allows for complete customization while supporting the natural lash growth cycle. But this level of artistry requires serious dedication—lash extensions are both a financial investment and a time commitment. They require regular upkeep due to natural lash fallout, but the technology has never been better or safer. Thanks to innovation and increased popularity, today’s extensions are sleek, lightweight, and more refined than ever.
That said, as with any luxury service, many enthusiasts are always searching for more convenient, affordable alternatives—and TikTok has entered the game. With creators sharing beauty hacks and DIYs, lash clusters have resurfaced in a big way. Originally popular in the early 2000s for their natural look and longer wear, lash clusters are now beloved for a different reason: they offer a three-step, at-home process that delivers full, natural, and fluffy lashes in a fraction of the time and cost of extensions. According to SaleHoo, lash clusters are a product to watch, especially if you’re eyeing TikTok Shop or other e-commerce platforms. Their popularity is only expected to spike further during the summer months.
Lash clusters are exactly what they sound like: small bundles of lashes with mini bands that you apply just below your natural lash line. Unlike strip lashes, which offer no flexibility and are made for single-use, clusters allow for customizable styles and can be worn for multiple days. They give you the freedom to play with different looks, all from the same pack.
With the rise of beauty creators and influencers on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, cosmetic enhancements have never been more visible—or more talked about. Eyelash extensions have been gaining traction since the early 2000s, with stars like Paris Hilton among the first in North America to rock the look and help popularize it. Today, they’re a true staple in American beauty and fashion, offering both everyday wearability and freedom of expression.
Some speculate that eyelash extensions might be on their way out, with many asking: Why get extensions when lash clusters are so convenient and look just as good? But here’s the thing—they’re not the same. Lash extensions take time because each extension is meticulously applied to a single lash. That precision results in a long-lasting, ultra-customized look that clusters just can’t match. Extensions can be safely washed, worn for up to 6–8 weeks, and maintained with fills. Lash clusters, on the other hand, are applied near the lash line—not to individual hairs—which means they serve a totally different purpose. While the aesthetic might overlap, the function and longevity are where they truly diverge.
It’s fascinating to watch the lash industry evolve as trends come and go. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have democratized beauty knowledge, allowing professionals and everyday users alike to share tips, hacks, and routines. Whether you’re a mascara loyalist, a strip lash lover, a cluster convert, or an extension devotee—there’s never been a better time to explore and experiment with lashes.