No outfit feels complete without a swish of mascara. But let’s be real. Clumpy lashes, smudges by midday, and the struggle of applying falsies? Not the vibe. If you’re looking to add that wow factor without the need for touch-ups throughout the day, eyelash extensions just might be the solution you’re looking for!
From a subtle, natural lift to full-on, red-carpet drama, lash extensions let you customise your look to perfection. But with so many options, how do you know which one’s the one? That’s where we come in! As a beauty team passionate about celebrating your beauty, we cover everything you need to know about hybrid lashes and extensions to help you decide.
Looking At Different Types of Lash Extensions
When it comes to lash extensions, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Whether it’s effortless glam or va-va-volume, there is a lash extension to match your style. Typically, there are three main types of lash extensions:
Classic Lash Extensions
Classic lash extensions are perfect for those who love a natural, everyday look. This style follows a simple 1:1 ratio, meaning one extension is applied to each natural lash for a subtle boost. This technique takes anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on what you are looking for and the amount your lashes can handle.
While it doesn’t add too much volume, it adds length, giving you an even lash line that gently opens the eyes. It’s a soft, fluttery look that doesn’t scream I got lash extensions!
Volume Lash Extensions
On the other end of the spectrum is volume lash extensions. These are here to serve drama and volume. Instead of a 1:1 ratio, volume extensions use handmade or pre-made fans of several ultra-fine lashes (ranging from 2D to 6D) that are attached to a single natural lash. This creates a fuller, fluffier look while keeping the lashes lightweight and comfortable.
The process takes 1 to 4 hours, depending on whether your technician handcrafts each fan or uses pre-made ones. The more lashes that are installed the more it looks like a strip of lashes.
Hybrid Lash Extensions
Now, if you are looking for the best of both worlds, Hybrid lashes are the go-to solution. They are the perfect mix of classic and volume, adding both length and fullness.
Hybrid lashes blend single classic extensions with strategically placed volume fans, most often in a ratio of 70% volume and 30% classic. However, this can vary depending on the results you are looking for. This technique is great if you want a little extra oomph without going full-volume.
How to Choose Between Volume, Classic vs Hybrid Lash Extensions
Choosing the perfect lash style doesn’t have to be complicated! It all comes down to your natural lashes, beauty goals, and lifestyle. Here are some top factors to consider when making your decision:
1. Your Natural Lash Type & Lash Health
The health and thickness of your natural lashes play a big role in determining which style will work best for you. If your lashes are on the finer or shorter side, classic lashes might be your go-to for a natural, everyday look. They’re less demanding on your natural lashes and add some length. However, if your natural lashes are strong, volume lashes can be the perfect fit for a fuller, more dramatic effect.
If you want a balance of both, hybrid lashes are great for adding fullness without putting too much stress on your lashes. A mix of classic and volume ensures a beautiful lift without overwhelming your natural lashes.
2. Final Look
Next, think of the look you’re going for. Do you just want a soft, hassle-free solution to eliminate a step from your makeup routine, or do you want a significant difference? Chatting with your lash artist can also help you make a decision. They have the skills and expertise to know what looks good and what will work best for you.
3. Maintenance & Lifestyle
When choosing between lash styles, think about how much time you’re willing to spend on their upkeep. Classic lashes require less upkeep and are easier to maintain because they’re lighter and thinner. Volume lashes, on the other hand, might require a bit more care due to their fullness, so if you’re going for that look, be prepared for more frequent touch-ups.
It’s also important to think about the type of activities you do on the regular. Heavy workouts and too much heat or steam can weaken the adhesive’s hold on your extensions, meaning you’ll need to be more mindful of how you care for your lashes and how often you’ll need to go for infills.
Thicker extensions are more noticeable when they need a touch-up up as gaps or shedding can stand out more. Thinner sets can be less noticeable, and allows you to get away with longer periods in between appointments.
4. Cost and Time Investment
Cost and time should also play a part in your decision. Classic lashes are typically the most affordable option and the quickest to apply. They’re also the least expensive to maintain over time.
Volume lashes take longer to apply and are more costly due to the amount of work involved in creating the fans. Keep in mind that volume extensions may also require more regular touch-ups.
Hybrid lashes offer a balance between the two. The application time is somewhere in the middle, and while they may cost more than classic lashes, they’re still more affordable than full-volume sets.
Common Myths About Hybrid Lash Extensions
“Won’t they feel heavy?” and “Do they damage my lashes?” These are some common questions we get about hybrid lashes. Properly applied hybrid extensions should feel as good as they look!
A common concern is whether hybrid lashes will harm your natural lashes. The short answer? No—as long as they’re applied by a certified professional. Hybrid lash extensions don’t damage your natural lashes when applied correctly.
- Isolation: Each natural lash is carefully isolated before the extension is applied.
- Proper weight: The weight of the extension is matched to the strength of your natural lashes, ensuring there’s no strain.
- No ‘stickies’: A professional will ensure that no multiple lashes are stuck together, which can cause damage and discomfort.
Hybrid lashes are light, too. For first-time clients, there might be a slight difference, but nothing overwhelming. Most people are surprised by how comfortable and natural they feel once applied. In fact, many of our clients fall asleep during their sessions because the process is painless.
To ensure your comfort during and after an appointment, your artist will:
- Assess your natural lash strength to pick the right extension weight.
- Asses your natural lash density and eye shape to guide the placement of the lashes.
- Use the best adhesives to prevent irritation, discomfort and long-lasting results.
Discomfort usually only arises from poor application or issues like tugging at or poking caused by incorrect application, shifting gel pads during the application process and adhesive allergies (which are rare but can cause irritation.)
Lastly, many clients think that hybrid lashes will need constant upkeep. However, that’s not true. Like all eyelash extensions, hybrid lashes do require top-ups and in-fills, but they are not necessary. Taking breaks between sets is actually a healthy choice for your natural lashes, and experts recommend allowing them to recover for about a month when possible.
Tips To Love Your Lashes For Longer
To keep your lashes gorgeous in between visits, there are a few things you can do:
- Give Your Lashes Time to Settle: First things first, after your lash appointment, your extensions need about 48 hours to fully set. During this time, skip the hot showers, swimming pools, and steam rooms. This helps ensure the adhesive has time to bond properly.
- Cleanliness is Key: Once those 48 hours are over, you can clean your lashes with a gentle, oil-free cleanser every three days. Grab a clean spoolie brush and gently comb through your lashes. Support them with your finger to avoid tugging. This keeps your lashes tangle-free and looking fresh throughout the day. A quick wash will do wonders in keeping them clean and free from any buildup that can weigh down the lash.
- How You Sleep Matters: How you sleep can also affect how long your lashes last. Try to sleep on your back or side to avoid crushing your lashes. You can even swap out your cotton pillowcase for a silk or satin one to prevent friction, keeping your lashes intact and healthy.
- Say No to Mechanical Curlers: Leave those mechanical eyelash curlers in the drawer. They can damage both your extensions and your natural lashes, so skip them entirely for longer-lasting lashes.
- Love Swimming? Protect Your Lashes: If you love to swim, pop on some protective goggles to shield your lashes from chlorine or saltwater. After your swim, give your lashes a gentle rinse with fresh water to wash away any lingering chlorine or salt.
- Maintenance Visits: For the best results, book a maintenance visit every 2-3 weeks. These appointments don’t just fill in gaps, but they’re also the perfect time to have your lash artist ensure everything is looking healthy and to answer any questions you might have about keeping your lashes looking lovely.
Classic Vs Volume Vs Hybrid Lash Extensions: The Perfect Match at a Glance
| What You Get | Classic Lash Extensions | Hybrid Lash Extensions | Volume Lash Extensions |
| Time in Our Chair | 30min-2 hours | 2-3 hours | 2-4 hours |
| Our Technique | 1:1 ratio | Typically a mix of 70% classic, 30% volume | 2D to 6D fans |
| Extension Thickness | 0.10-0.20mm | 0.05-0.10mm | 0.03-0.07mm |
| The Look You’ll Love | Natural, like your favourite mascara | Textured, multidimensional beauty | Show-stopping glamour |
| Perfect For You If… | Subtle, natural, enhanced length | Enhanced length and volume, natural fuller | Full, bold and thick. |
The Way To Perfect Lashes Starts Here!
You’re already stunning, but the right lashes can help you feel even more confident and beautiful. The look and finish you choose is up to you, but with a little guidance and the expertise of our talented team, you’ll find the perfect lashes to match your vibe. From classic and volume to hybrid lash extensions, we’ve got a style for you. At Noosa Brow Co., we believe every woman deserves to feel empowered, refreshed and ready to take on the world. Get bespoke lash service today!