Biodegradable vs Recycled-Fiber Lash Extensions: What's the Difference?

Biodegradable and recycled are often used in the same conversation, but they describe two very different approaches to lash materials.

Simple answer: Recycled lashes reuse an existing material. Biodegradable lashes use a material designed to break down faster under appropriate conditions.

What are recycled-fiber eyelash extensions?

Avari Beauty's recycled lash line uses recycled HDPE fibers.

The purpose of using recycled material is to reduce dependence on entirely new material while providing professional lash artists with usable lash fibers.

Current recycled-fiber options include:

What are Avari Beauty's biodegradable lashes made from?

The current Biodegradable Volume Eyelash Extensions use a corn-starch-based material.

Avari Beauty explains that its biodegradable material has been tested under composting conditions and is continuing to be evaluated as the product line develops.

This is important because biodegradable does not mean a product instantly disappears when it is thrown away.

Side-by-side comparison

Feature Recycled HDPE Corn-Starch Based
Approach Uses recycled material Uses biodegradable material
Current range Several professional lash styles Focused volume option
Professional use Classic and volume techniques Volume application

Which one is better?

There is no single answer.

If you need a wider selection of lash styles, curls and application methods, the recycled-fiber range may give you more flexibility.

If offering a corn-starch-based biodegradable volume option matters to your salon, the biodegradable line may be more relevant. As we grow, more options will become available for our biodegradable lash line. 

What about greenwashing?

One of the most useful things a beauty company can do is explain what it knows, what it does not know and how its products are developing.

Broad terms like “green” or “eco-friendly” are less useful than specific information about materials and testing.

Read Avari Beauty's detailed sustainability explanation here: All About Our Sustainable Lashes .

What should a professional compare besides material?

  • diameter
  • curl
  • length
  • fan-making behavior
  • softness
  • application method
  • availability of mixed trays

A sustainable product still needs to make sense for the client's natural lashes and the service being performed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does recycled mean biodegradable?

No. They describe different material approaches.

Are Avari Beauty biodegradable lashes made from corn starch?

Avari Beauty currently describes its biodegradable professional lash material as corn-starch based.

Can a lash artist use both types?

Yes. An artist can select the product based on the technique, desired result and available specifications.

Choose the Right Lash for Your Work

Read the professional buying guide or browse all professional extension options.

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