Lash Curl Guide: J vs B vs C vs CC vs D vs DD (How to Choose in 60 Seconds)
New here? Start with our 1-page overview first: Lash Extension Types Guide (Pillar) →
Quick idea: Lash curl is the “lift level.” More curl = more lift and more visible shape. J/B are softer and more natural. C/CC are the everyday favorites. D/DD are dramatic and high-lift.
What does lash curl mean?
Curl letters (J, B, C, CC, D, DD) describe how curved the lash fiber is. Different brands/factories can vary slightly, but the relative order is consistent:
Least curl → Most curl: J → B → C → CC → D → DD
J vs B vs C vs CC vs D vs DD (fast comparison)
J Curl — soft lift, natural look
- Best for: very natural sets, mature clients, subtle enhancement
- Great for: clients who don’t want an obvious “curled” look
- Watch out: on very straight downward lashes, J may look too flat
B Curl — natural lift, clean classic
- Best for: classic sets, “my lashes but better” looks
- Good for: clients with slightly straight or mildly lifted natural lashes
- Watch out: if client wants strong lift, B may look too soft
C Curl — the most popular everyday curl
- Best for: most clients, most eye shapes
- Great for: balanced lift without looking too dramatic
- Why artists love it: easy to map and looks flattering in photos
CC Curl — stronger C, more “open eye” effect
- Best for: clients who want more lift than C but not as dramatic as D
- Great for: creating a brighter, more open look
- Common use: wispy sets where you want more “pop” on top line
D Curl — dramatic lift
- Best for: clients who love bold lash looks
- Great for: downward natural lashes (when applied correctly)
- Watch out: can look too intense if the client wants natural
DD Curl — extreme lift / statement look
- Best for: very dramatic styles, stage/photo looks
- Great for: maximum lift when client requests “curliest possible”
- Watch out: easiest curl to look unnatural if mapping is too long/heavy
How to choose curl in 60 seconds (simple rules)
Rule 1 (most common): If you’re not sure, start with C or CC.
Rule 2 (natural or flat request): Choose B.
Rule 3 (bottom lashes): Choose I or J.
Rule 4 (more lift request): Choose CC or D.
Rule 5 (very dramatic): Choose DD (and keep lengths controlled).
Best curls by common client request
- “I want natural, not obvious” → C
- “I want a pretty everyday lift” → CC
- “I want my eyes to look more open” → D
- “I want dramatic lift” → DD
- “I want the curliest possible” → U
Pro tip: Curl looks different with length
A higher curl with a longer length can look very dramatic quickly. If you’re moving from C → D, many artists reduce length slightly to keep the look balanced.
Special case: L Curl
L curl is designed to create lift while improving contact for certain eye shapes and styling looks. If you specifically want L curl, shop here: L Curl Lashes →
Shop USA-stock lashes (by method)
If you want to shop by technique instead of names:
- Shop PetalBurst™ True Matte →
- Shop Easy Fan / Blossom →
- Shop Premade Fans →
- Shop Cashmere Collection →
Want the big picture? Go back to: Lash Extension Types Guide (Pillar) →
Tip: Click into any product to confirm curl/length availability. Most USA-stock items ship next business day when in stock.
