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Hybrid Lashes vs Classic vs Volume

Hybrid Lashes vs Classic vs Volume: Should I do the Classic eyelash extensions?

What about the Hybrid lash extensions? Or maybe the Volume Eyelash Extensions are better?

If you are asking these questions, now is the time to make up your mind. Classic, Hybrid, or Volume lash Extensions… 

Let’s take a look at each one of them and decide now which one is gonna be the best for you.

Summary

We are gonna have a lot of details on each one of these types of eyelash extensions, including examples, but let’s get started straight away, with a quick summary to answer your question.

What Are Classic Eyelash Extensions? 

This is the most basic, the most natural-looking eyelash extension type that you are gonna find out there. 

Classic lash extensions are gonna add length and thickness perfect for those that already have a good amount of natural lashes.

They are also the quickest and cheapest style to get done, because the application is simpler, on a 1:1 ratio.

The 1:1 ratio means that each natural lash is going to be applied for one false lash extension. 

The classic eyelash extension gives you a beautiful length to your natural lashes and the result is soft, natural-looking lashes.

What Are Volume Eyelash Extensions?

As the name says, volume extensions are gonna give you lots of volumes. If you are looking for drama, this is the option to go for. 

We have learned that the classic lash extensions are applied on a 1:1 ratio, right?

In the case of volume extensions, it can be done on a 1:3 or even 1:5 ratio.

This means that for each natural lash, you may have 3 or 4, or 5 lashes applied.

It all depends on how much drama you like in your life. I mean, in your look!

With Volume extensions, the ratios can also be defined as dimensions.

For example, the 1:3 ratio is also known as the 3D Volume eyelash extension.

The same works with the 1:4 ratio, which is also known as the 4D volume eyelash extension and so on.

If you want to have volume and still look like natural lashes, then you should opt for the 3D volume eyelash.

Now, if your aim is to have a very dramatic look, then go for 4D, 5D, and so on.

There are salons that offer many dimensions to choose from. There might be places you are gonna find even 10D lash extensions.

By the way, these definitions work not only for professional semi-permanent lash extensions, but you will also find these terminations while shopping for temporary false lashes as well.

Example Of Lashes

What Are Hybrid Eyelash Extensions?

We talked about the classic lash extensions on the basic side.

Then we mentioned the volume of eyelashes is at the extreme of the dramatic look.

The hybrid lash style is somewhat in the middle. Many people say that this type of extension brings the best of both worlds for you (classic + Volume).

During the hybrid eyelash extension, the eyelash stylist is supposed to mix classic application with volume application to give you a balanced look.

Not too basic, not too bold, with a variety of textures and volume, this type of eyelash extension became famous because this is what the Kardashians and many other celebrities opted for.

Example Of lashes

What are The Main Differences between Classic, Hybrid, and Volume Extensions?

Now that we had a look at each one of these popular types of eyelash applications, let’s talk a little more about how they differ from each other.

I think you already have the idea but there are a few extra considerations that I think would be nice to share with you before you make your decision.

Classic Natural Lashes

The first thing you have in mind is that the classic lash extensions are going to be the most basic form of application.

The look will remain very close to natural lashes and you can expect more length over volume.

This means, that if you just want to have longer lashes but don’t really care about adding too much volume, this is a good option.

You can also expect a more even application and look of the lashes than other types of application.

If you choose this option, you are going to open up your eyes and achieve the natural no makeup, makeup look that we all love.

Hybrid

They can still look like natural lashes but boosted.

The main difference between the classic eyelash extension and the hybrid extensions is that it’s a classic with more spice.

In order to get the hybrid lashes done, the specialist is going to apply 30% of classic lashes and 70% of volume lashes.

Traditionally, on the 70% of volume lash extensions application, you can possibly choose from a range of 1:2 to 1:3 ratio.  

Then you are going to have longer lashes and add a little bit of texture at the same time. This is very popular in the celebrity world nowadays.

But many people are opting for this type of application as well because they are just beautiful.

Many people like and need volume but their lifestyle does not allow them to go extra bold.

It leads us to think about the main difference between Hybrid lash extensions and volume lash extensions.

They are just not as bold as the volume (or Russian volume) lash extensions. 

Volume

They look pretty but won’t look like natural lashes.

The main difference between Volume lash extensions and volume eyelash extensions is how bold and vivid your eyes will become.

There are the volume extensions that are going to give an extreme look, but there is also the possibility to create a little less impact by using the 2D and 3D lashes.

Maybe your lifestyle and personality support the volume eyelash extensions, and you need something that is going to wow everybody. If this is your case, choose something like 4D lashes and beyond. 

Because the volume lashes are a little more complicated to be applied, it can take longer to get done, and of course, might cost more than the classic method.

Which one is better, classic, hybrid, or volume eyelashes? 

I think you might have an idea of what you need up to this point, but now let’s discuss which one of these lash extensions can be better for you. 

Firstly let’s take into consideration that the classic lash extensions are going to be the most fragile option.

It tends to become spidery quicker than volume lashes because there are fewer lashes on the application.

Think with me, if they have fewer lashes, then if the lashes fall out, you will have to fill that gap immediately, while with the volume lashes, because you have more lashes applied it might not be so evident when one lash falls off.

But it all depends on the professional you choose to get your lashes done. Make sure you read a lot of good references beforehand.

Now that we have this into consideration, what else I can say is any type of eyelash extension is going to work well according to your needs and personality.

It is no good and bad here, but just what you like and what makes you feel prettier. The rest doesn’t matter that much.

Which one should you actually get, classic, hybrid, or volume?

Maybe you already have long and thick eyelashes, and just would like to have this no makeup, makeup look, and save time and money with eye mascara.

Then the best option for you would be the classic eyelash extension as you just need that extra little help to highlight your looks.

You should also take into consideration your eye shape. I have written an entire article, super guide with lots of details on this one so make sure to go check it out

But briefly, taking your eye shape into consideration should be decisive while choosing your lash extensions.

If you have small eyes, downturned eyes, upturned eyes, and any other type of eye shape, you can highlight and make it more vivid by applying the right eyelash extension style.

You should also take into consideration your lifestyle and personality.  If you work at night at a bar, for example, volume lashes are a good idea.

In the same way, if you work with events, like singing and performing, you can go for hybrid and volume lashes extensions.

If you work in the office, maybe you agree that the classic or a light hybrid might be a better option for you.

But before everything, always take into consideration what makes you feel good about yourself and go for it.

Further Reading: Eyelash Extension Styles: Ultimate Guide For Different Eye Shapes

Your Comprehensive Guide For Choosing The Best Style

Now that we have just answered your general questions in the quick summary, it is time to go a little more in-depth and learn more about each one of these types of eyelash extensions in depth.

In the next lines, we are gonna have specific sections talking about classic lashes, hybrid lashes, and volume lashes extensions separately.

We are also bringing to you some videos and pictures so you can have a better idea of each style and be able to decide which one works best for you.

Classic Eyelash Extensions: What are they?

Classic lashes are the go-to for all occasions. It is suitable for all eye shapes and faces and styles. 

If after doing your research, you are still confused about what eyelash extensions you should go for, then I guess the classic is going to.

If you are just trying to enhance your natural beauty, go for classic lashes and you are ready to go.

I don’t have eyelash extensions myself, but if I was going to get one, I’d go for the classic, because think with myself.

I think that the beauty of any aesthetic procedure is the impression that there is something different with you, but they don’t know exactly what it is.

What do classic lashes look like?

Now imagine waking up with glorious enhanced eyes, that look really natural, and don’t worry about applying falsies or mascara?

Plus the classic lashes cannot go wrong in any situation, be it at night or the morning, no matter where you go, you are ready and fabulous.

Classic lashes normally look long and natural, but you can choose how long and thick you want them to be. 

It is all a matter of what makes you feel better. It is also a good idea to talk to a professional and ask for their advice taking into consideration your eye shape and face shape.

Bonus: After Care

Further Reading: Eyelash Extension Styles: Ultimate Guide For Different Eye shapes

What Are Classic Eyelash Extensions Made Of?

Not only classic lashes but an eyelash extension can be made with a variety of materials.

There are synthetic materials, and there are some eyelash extensions that are made out of animal fur.

It is preferred to use synthetic material. It is not only safer, with less risk of infection but you are doing a big favor to the animal cause and environment.

In the end, synthetic lashes often do a greater job than animal fur lashes and you will feel much better about yourself.

There are some salons that say they offer cruelty-free animal fur eyelash extensions. Don’t buy that lie.

There is no such thing, and if they try to convince you they are using animal fur but they are nice, it might not be the truth.

You are gonna be really pretty by using synthetic eyelash extensions, so don’t worry about quality.

If you choose a good and reputable salon that offers synthetic material, go for it, because you are gonna look fabulous.

I have another article that I talk about in more detail about types of eyelash extensions, styles, materials, etc. Make sure to go take a look at it.

NOTE: Check this article For more info on eyelash extensions and materials used: Types Of Eyelash Extensions: Which Eyelash Extensions Are best?

Classic Eyelash Extensions Application

As I have said before, classic lashes are applied on the 1:1 ratio, meaning that for each natural lash, there will be one fake lash extension glued on it.

The application is more simple than the other techniques and may be cheaper and take shorter to be fully applied.

Down below there is a video where the eyelash stylist is applying classic lashes on a client.

If from one side this is going to give you a more classic/natural look, you should be super careful while washing your face.

Because it has fewer lash extensions glued, if one lash falls off, then it is going to be more visible than if you have a 1:3 (3D fan), that contains 3 lashes glued on one natural lash. 

Normally, one classic eyelash extension application uses on average 60 to 125 lashes. This covers around 95 or 99% of all lashes.

How Are Classic Lash Extensions Applied? (Step By Step)

Before we move on, it is important to say that applications may vary accordingly to the establishment. 

But on the next lines, you are gonna find some of the most common steps that are expected during the classic eyelash extension application.

  • Step 1: Once you decide on the look with the professional, they will sanitize their hands and apply the pads under your eyes. 
  • Step 2: After checking out if the client is comfortable and ready, the professional will use micro swabs to apply a primer on your lashes.
  • Step 3: Using the tweezers the professional should separate the lashes individually and apply one eyelash extension to one natural lash. The professional should deep one lash on the glue and carefully plate it on the natural lash.
  • Step 4: In the end, a professional will apply a sealer to give more stability to the recent application

This is more or less what you can expect to happen when you have your classic lashes done.

As I said, this may vary from place to place and there might be one or two steps I have not pointed out here, but on average, this is the big picture of what happens.

How Long Do classic Lashes Take To Apply?

Even though it depends on the professional, on average classic eyelash extension applications may take one and a half or two hours to get completed.

Some professionals may say they can do it in one hour but most people say it cannot be perfectly done in just an hour.

I think that 2 hours should be the average time for a good quality application, or even a little longer.

Always remember to ask for references and to choose an experienced professional who knows what they are doing.

How Long Do Classic Eyelash Extensions Last?

Generally speaking, lash extensions have the capacity to last a full natural eyelash growth cycle.

This takes around six to eight weeks, but it’s all defined by the quality of the products/material used and your own organism.

If you want them to last longer, then you need to invest in a good aftercare routine that involves:

  • Super extra care while washing your eyes
  • Using oil-free gentle products and makeup
  • Avoid using eye mascara
  • Have Infill treatments every 2 weeks

Remember that lash extensions, and especially classic eyeliner extensions are super delicate, so have this in mind.

If you decide to go for classic lashes be prepared to be super careful with your post-procedure routine.

How To Clean Classic Eyelash Extensions?

We have talked already that you should be super extra careful while cleansing your eyes while using eyelash extensions in general.

When you decide to apply for the classic eyelash extension, you should double the care and be even more careful because it is a dedicated treatment.

Another thing we have already told you is to use oil-free products and makeup and you should also avoid using eye mascara.

OK, so far so good, but how do you actually clean classic lashes?

Even though we have said you should be extra careful with classic eyelashes, the cleansing process is the same for any type of eyelash extension application.

  • Step 1: Use a cotton pad to gently apply an oil-free makeup remover onto your eyes.
  • Step 2: Gently remove the excess makeup and dirt with an oil-free oil free facial soap (or oil-free lash foaming cleanser)and lukewarm water. 
  •  Steep 3: Rinse until completely clean, but never rub back and forth 
  • Step 4: Pat dry and use a small lash brush and gently brush your lashes 

If you don’t wear makeup, just use an oil-free facial soup. But in all cases, it is always best to use specific eyelash soaps.

Classic Eyelash Extensions Vs Individual Lashes


Classic lashes are semi-permanent types of eyelashes that can take a few weeks depending on a few factors that we have already mentioned before.

These factors are the quality of material used for the application, the experience, and technique defined by the professional, and proper aftercare.

It is also possible to find disposable classic false eyelash extensions, and they are good if you want to try them out before taking your final decision on semi-permanent extensions.

But you can also find classic individual lashes, which are falsies and that are also disposable. Use those for a party or a quick event but they are only disposable, you will probably not find individual lash extensions.

Classic Eyelash Extension Before And After

Now let’s put together some before and after pictures of classic lash extensions, so you have a comparison.

Take a look at these examples, and I believe that by now you should have enough information to decide if the classic lashes are a good option for you.

This first example I got from the Eyelash website,  a saloon that specializes in eyelash extensions. Note how vivid the eyes become after application.

The next classic eyelash extension example I got from another eyelash extension salon, the micro-pigmentation academy.

Note that in this second example, the classic eyelash extension looks fuller, but as you can see the model has larger and bigger eyes that allow the look.

Classic Eyelash Extensions

Credits: micropigmentation.academy

I simply love the classic eyelash extension style. I am sure you will love it if you decide to go for it.

Just remember to always be careful while choosing a professional, don’t go for cheaper but think about quality and reputation first.

I will always say this all over these articles because this is really important. Nowadays there are still tons of people that do something like that without proper research and caution.

Don’t be that person and do your homework. Just the fact that you are reading this article means that you are gonna make a conscious decision because you are already doing your homework.

And always check a professional for personalized and dedicated advice before going ahead with any type of beauty treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Just taking this section to talk about a few frequently asked questions I found out there and that I think you would be asking yourself.

If you have more questions, please send them in the comments below or you can send me a direct on Instagram

I will be happy to address your questions and add them to questions that we already have here. 

Question 1: Is it painful to apply classic eyelash extensions?

Answer: It is not painful at all to apply classic lashes, or any type of eyelash extensions, really. In fact, they are so light and you will feel them as a natural part of yours..

What may happen, and even this, is really rare to happen is that it can cause allergy. 

The solution to this is to do a patch test for 10 minutes, 24 hours prior to the application. 

This should be done any time you perform such treatment because you can avoid further allergic reactions.

Question 2: How To Make Classic Eyelash Extensions Look Fuller?

Answer: If for whatever reason you want to make your classic eyelash extensions look fuller,  after having your application, the only way is by using mascara.   

This is controversial because most eyelash extension professionals will tell you don’t need it and you should not use them.

The way to go is to talk to your chosen professional beforehand and tell them you want fuller classic eyelash extensions.

That way, you won’t need to run after the wind once the procedure is done. It is better to have it in mind to avoid surprises.

In this sense, the professional is going to evaluate and indicate the best length and thickness that is gonna suit you better.  

Hybrid Extensions: What Are They?

Let’s talk now about hybrid lashes. Stay tuned, because there is tons of info and I believe you should be able to decide if this is the style you should go to after reading this section.

We have discussed that the hybrid lashes are a combination of two techniques: the classic and the volume eyelash extensions.

Just for a quick recap, in the hybrid extensions technique, the professional usually applies 30% of classic lashes plus 70% of volume lashes.

There are salons that apply different percentage proportions as well. It can be 50% classic and 50% volume, and so on.

From the volume lashes applied, you can choose between 2D, 3D, and 4D, up to 10D volume lashes fans.

But to be honest, for the hybrid lashes, it makes more sense to apply the 2D fan, because it will create a better balance with the classic lashes that makes the combination.

In the end, you should have a thicker and denser look than the classic lashes, which are not so uniform as the volume lashes.

It can also combine shorter and longer lashes, mixing classic lashes. This is gonna assure that you have a volume with a look that is more natural than if you had the volume lashes done

Why Choose The Hybrid Style?

The hybrid lashes have quite a few different alternative nominations. It can also be also known as American Volume Lashes, Kardashian Lashes, Mixed or Combination Lashes.

If you are looking for an enhanced version of the classic eyelash extensions and still want to maintain a certain discretion, this is a great option.

The first thing you can have in mind about the hybrid extensions is that you are gonna have a nice dark voluminous set of lashes.

If your lashes are not that thick, the hybrid lashes are going to fill the eyelash gaps and make you feel fabulous.

While the classic eyelash extensions are going to give you a good length, the hybrid lashes can make it look fuller, alright?

Hybrid lashes Recommendations: What Should I Have In Mind Before Choosing Them?

Pretty much like any other type of eyelash extension treatment, there will be recommendations to be followed.

These recommendations are going to assure you have your lashes fuller for longer and well conserved.

The first recommendation I can share with you about the hybrid extensions is actually also related to the volume eyelash extension.

As you are gonna have a percentage of volume eyelash extension mixed with classic volume extensions.

First be careful not to choose a cheap place that promises a quick performance, as this technique takes time and patience.

Note that it is very common that people to offer low-quality products, the only way to get over this is to look at the hygiene of the place, ask for recommendations and look at their portfolio.

Another tithing to have in mind is that the lashes must be applied one by one manually. If the salon is offering pre-made fans, it can be prejudicial. 

How To Care For Hybrid Lashes?

Now, the most important recommendation I can give to you regarding hybrid lashes is not to use eye Mascara, serums, and oily products on your eyes. 

Avoid those at all costs because using them on your lashes, it will most likely close them together, and you don’t want that to happen.

The good news is that you won’t need to use mascara anyways because your lashes are going to be already fabulous by the time you wake up.

Another thing to have in mind is to use specific oil-free cleansers made exclusively for eyelash extensions.

By doing this you are assuring to avoid potential irritations while maintaining the hygiene in the eye area.

These types of eyelash cleansers normally come not only with anti-aging properties, but also with eye improvement components, so you are actually providing deeper care to yourself.

How Long Do Hybrid Eyelash Extensions Take To Get Done?

Normally hybrid lashes take longer to get fully applied than the classic eyelash extensions. 

The time for full application can vary between 2 hours to 3 hours. Of course, it is gonna depend on the professional.

Once again, never believe someone is going to do a good job on your lashes if they promise 30 minutes or even one hour for a full application.

Pretty please pay attention to it, as I had heard some cases where people used premade lash clusters that took 30 minutes to be applied.

End result was a terrible-looking application, aggravated by discomfort, plus the harassment of finding a salon to un-do the process.

How Long Do Hybrid Eyelash Extensions Last?

It is known that on average, lash extensions, in general, may last anything between 4 to 6 weeks. This is going to depend on your natural lash growth cycle.

The same may apply with the hybrid lashes, but of course, you need to be super delicate and take proper care of your extensions.

One great piece of advice that many eyelash experts are gonna give to you is not to wait till the end of these 4-6 weeks to go back to the salon and have it done again.

In order to avoid downtimes and gaps on your lashes, it is good to visit the salon after two or three weeks for a manutention.

This is gonna assure your lashes will keep uniform and all in place. Or you can have your touch-up as soon as you notice something unusual happening.

Volume Eyelash Extensions: What Are They?

The volume extensions, also known as Russian eyelash extensions, can also be found on the mega volume eyelash extension version.

The definition is pretty counterintuitive and it requires a lot of personality and attitude to have it as a style.

The Russian eyelash extensions (or volume extensions)application is more complex than the classic eyelash extensions.

In this technique, lashes are grouped into fans. Each fan can have from two, up to 10 lashes. The fan with 2 lashes is called 2D lashes.

The fan with 3 lashes is called 3D lashes and so on. The fan with 10 lashes, is called 10D lashes.

These 2D, 3D, 5D, and 10D lashes can also be called ratios. This means that a fan with 2D lashes is applied on a 1:2 ratio.

Following this logic, a 3D fan is applied on 1:3 lashes, meaning that a fan with 3 lash extensions is going to be applied to 1 natural lash.

Be aware that for the best and safest results, these fans must not be pre-made, and should be applied carefully one by one.

If someone is offering you pre-made fans just run from that professional because this is going to be bad for you.

Apart from that, you can also choose how long, or how short, and how thick your lashes are going to look.

This is actually possible with all the three types of eyelash extensions we have talked about. Be the classic, the hybrid, or volume lashes.

You should also have in mind what type of curvature you want to have. This should be chosen to take your eye shape into consideration.

I have written an entire article about that, so make sure to take a look at it. I’m pretty sure it is gonna help you in making your final decision.

Suggested Reading: Eyelash Extension Styles: Ultimate Guide For Different Eye Shapes

Volume Extensions Pros and Cons

In this section, I decided to put a pros and cons section, because I have noticed many people are quite undecided about the volume of eyelash extensions.

For many people, it is good to decide on the classic or hybrid eyelash extension, but they are quite skeptical about the volume.

Let’s take a look now at some pros and cons, and hopefully, you can gather a little more information that will help you with your decision.

Volume Eyelash Extensions Pros

  • It is possible to apply volume lashes and still look natural: You can choose volume extensions and explain to the professional that you don’t want it to be too distractive. I am sure the professional will find a balance to have it as natural as possible.
  • You can be sure to have your eyes stand out and look more vivid than other types of extensions (classic or hybrid)
  • You save tons of time without the need to glue your lashes or spend too much time on eye makeup

Volume Extensions Cons

  • You have to be extra careful while choosing a professional because it is a hard task to find a good balance between natural volume eyelashes and exaggerated lashes. Also, they need to know how to do it by hand, gluing the lashes one by one. This is not an easy task to find a skilled person.
  • Need to keep your eye on manutention, you need to always pay attention to using the right products and to be super gentle while washing your face, and avoid touching your eyes. By the way, this is a rule for all types of eyelash extensions.

Related To Hybrid Lashes vs Classic vs Volume

Now that you know a bit more about classic eyelash extensions, hybrid and volume extensions, I’d like to invite you to take a look at these articles:

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