The false lashes industry has seen significant growth and development in recent years, particularly in China, which has emerged as a global hub for the production and export of these beauty products.
Known as China's "capital of false eyelashes," Dazeshan, a town in Shandong Province, boasts 3,895 factories that collectively produce about 70% of the world's false lashes in over 3,000 different styles and categories. The history of false lashes stretches back to ancient times, with references in Egyptian and Roman literature dating to 2,000 B.C. However, it was in the 1930s when Hollywood actresses adopted false lashes, leading to their widespread popularity.
The development of the false lashes industry in Dazeshan began in the 1970s when businessmen from the Republic of Korea came to Shandong to open factories. A local villager who worked in one of these factories brought the skill back to his hometown, sparking the growth of the industry. As the sector expanded, local businesses sent their workers to Europe, the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea to master advanced technology, significantly enhancing the quality of the lashes produced.
Today, the false lashes industry in Dazeshan is highly mechanized and digitized, with a complete production chain that helps lower costs and improve efficiency. The town's industrial park partners with universities to stay abreast of technological advancements and equipment innovations. With the new equipment, efficiency has increased more than five times, according to Pan Xinyu, the operations manager of a local industrial park.
Despite the small size of false lashes, they are not easy to make and require multiple steps to complete. However, innovation has been key to keeping the industry competitive. For instance, artificial mink has emerged as an ideal material for making false lashes, as it is cheaper and more environmentally friendly compared to real mink. This new product has been well-received in European and American markets.
Moreover, the demand for false lashes continues to grow, driven by increasing consumer awareness of beauty and personal care products. Women around the world are incorporating false lashes into their daily makeup routines, creating a significant market opportunity for producers. To cater to this demand, manufacturers are continuously introducing new styles, materials, and technologies to improve the quality and appeal of their products.
In addition to traditional sales channels, the false lashes industry is also benefiting from the rise of e-commerce platforms. These platforms provide manufacturers with access to a global audience, enabling them to reach new customers and expand their market share. With the increasing popularity of online shopping, the false lashes industry is poised for further growth and development in the coming years.