Whether they be light and fluffy, thick and bold or all-natural, lashes tend to be the one thing every makeup user can agree is essential to their routine. For young people entering the world of makeup, mascara is an easy way to get used to the feeling and look of makeup on the face. Those who are experienced with makeup know the styling of false lashes can complete any look. For those in a time crunch before class, having your lashes done up is the easiest way to feel ready for the day. 

A love for eyelashes dates all the way back to ancient Egypt, where men and women would darken their lashes both for appearance and for protection from the sun. In early 20th-century America, lash darkener was made at home using coal and vaseline. When Mabel Williams’ brother saw her make this mixture, he decided to market the product, creating the now widely popular Maybelline brand. The 1930s saw further developments in lash styling: With lash darkener saturating the cosmetic industry, the first eyelash curler was patented and false lashes rose in popularity. Since then, mascara has been used by celebrities and everyday people alike, as the media continued to advertise its positive effects. In the 2000s, lashes became more individualized. While there is an endless amount of options for defining your lashes, a big factor for college students is budgeting. Here is a breakdown of affordable options and recommendations. 

Mascara is the easiest and quickest way to darken and temporarily lift lashes. It is also the most versatile product, as there are different formulas and wands to help you achieve your ideal look. The best drugstore options cost, on average, between $7 to $10. Fan favorites include Maybelline’s Lash Sensational and L’Oréal Paris Lash Paradise. Some higher end options are Benefit Cosmetic’s Roller Lash and Too Faced Better than Sex, which are available at Sephora and cost $25. 

If you are looking for a temporary solution to get more dramatic lashes, falsies are the way to go. They give a more dramatic look but are easy to remove and switch up. Ulta sells a variety of affordable options, costing on average $6 to $8 for a singular pair or $13 to $16 for a multipack. The top-selling affordable brands are Ardell Lashes, Kiss Beauty and Eylure. For those who are willing to spend a bit more money, Lilly Lashes is popular among influencers. Available at Sephora and Ulta, this brand sells a variety of styles that go for $26 a pair. 

Lash lifts have become increasingly popular over the last couple of years, as they help lashes stay curled for a longer amount of time. Having permed lashes makes it easier to apply mascara and not worry about your lashes dropping down throughout the day. On average, a lash lift at a salon in Boston costs anywhere between $75 and $110 and lasts up to six to eight weeks. 

Though they are the most expensive option, lash extensions allow users to have six to eight weeks of full, dark lashes without having to apply makeup or falsies. Lash extensions cost between $125 to $275, depending on what style of lash you want and what beauty salon you go to. 

No matter which option you prefer, you’ll fit in with the 2000s-era trend of individual expression, so don’t be afraid to switch it up and rock your lashes any way you desire.