Types of Eyelash Extensions: What’s Best For You?

Hey guys! This guide talks about different types of Eyelash Extensions, materials, applications, and styles.

What is best for you? Let’s get started!

How Do You Choose The Right Eyelash Extensions?

Before making a decision, there are a few questions you should ask:

• Should my lash extension be synthetic? Which material looks more natural?
• Do I want it long or short, thick, curly or straight?
• Which eyelash style is better for me? Voluminous, classic, or dramatic?
• What type of lash extension is best for my eye shape?

Once you understand the basics of materials to use, how thick, how long, and how full you want your lashes, you should also consider your eye shape.

Further Reading:

Eyelash Extension Styles Guide For Different Eyeshapes with examples

What’s The Best Material Type?

In the following lines, let’s take a look at which material you should choose, the pros and cons of using each one of them.

1. Mink Eyelash Extensions

The Animal Fur

Mink eyelashes extensions come from mink’s fur, the animal. 

Eyelash producers claim to brush these minks while they are alive, but we never know in what conditions the animals live.

The good news is that the lash industry came up with a better alternative for original mink lashes.

The faux mink lashes look even prettier than the original ones.

NOTE: Pretty please don’t use natural mink, even if they claim to be cruelty-free, because they are probably not.  

The Fake (Faux) Mink Eyelash Extension

There is no need to use the original mink fur because faux mink lashes look natural, lightweight, and glossier. 

Principal characteristics of Faux Mink eyelashes:

• They are very thin
• They look natural and feel like your own 
• It’s synthetic, vegan cruelty-free 
• Glossier look on your lashes
• They are resistant a will last longer (19 to 20 days on average)
• Great for those with thin lashes
• They look more voluminous than natural mink eyelash extensions
• Some salons might offer a good range of shapes and forms you can choose from
• Use it if you want a more dramatic look

Cons

• Depending on the saloon, they can be flatter than other types of eyelash extensions, especially after getting wet. Because of this, you might need to use a curler.

Temporary Fake Mink Eyelash Extension

If you want to test the waters, why not try temporary lashes?

Yes, I’m talking about those fake lashes, such as the Lashview fake mink eyelash that received great reviews online.

These lashes are 100% synthetic Faux Mink that look natural. 

Comfortable and soft, they won’t irritate and give a cool 3D layered natural look.

These lashes are long-lasting, and you should be able to use them around 20 times if you take well care of them.

I like this brand because they promise full satisfaction; otherwise, you can have your money back without questions.

Here’s How To Use Them:

• When you take them off the package, trim them with small scissors to fit your eyes length
• With both hands, curve the lashes to fit your eye curve
• Apply a suitable glue on the main stem of the lashes
• Wait for a little while, and as soon as the bond becomes transparent, stick the lash to the eyelids 

2. Silk Eyelash Extensions

Contrary to the faux mink extensions that are glossy, silk eyelashes extensions are semi-matte.

They give a dramatic look because they are thicker and have more space between lashes.

That means that you are discreet but still want to have some boldness on the eyes; use this type of eyelash extension.

The synthetic fiber that derives from polyester is very durable and looks natural.

In addition, it is gentle on the eyes, doesn’t irritate, and doesn’t cause redness.

On the left image (credits:  Lash Lounge), you can understand how the Faux Mink Eyelash compares to the Silk Eyelash extension.

At the top, you have the Faux silk eyelash type and the silk eyelash extension on the button.

The faux silk looks even more dramatic and shinier than the one above (silk). The Silk lash looks way more natural, in my opinion. 

The silk lashes are less shinier than the ones on the top.

More Facts about Silk Eyelash Extensions

• They are the most affordable type of lash extension in many countries
• Because they are thicker, they tend to be more noticeable

Cons about Silk Eyelash Extensions

• Best for people with strong lashes because they are heavy. If your lashes are thin, it may not give enough support to hold these lashes quite well.

Temporary Silk Eyelash Extensions

If you want, you can try the false lashes that we can glue at home and see if they suit you well.

You can try the Wleec Beauty 3D Silk Lashes Handmade Dramatic False Eyelash Pack, and I will tell you why I picked this one.

First, it has great reviews, so this is a good starting point. 

Secondly, they are carefully handmade, which gives a more polished finish. 

Thirdly, it is not so expensive, so you can try this out without breaking the bank.

These are 100% Synthetic False Eyelashes, 100% handmade, lightweight, and I believe they offer this kind of harmonious natural look.

As you touch them, you can feel flexible, soft, and super easy to apply.

Cons

They claim that lashes look like real mink (even though synthetic), making us confused because they entitle these falsies to be 3D silk lashes.

3. Sable Eyelashes

There are also the sable eyelashes made out of sable fur, an animal found in Russia and Siberia. 

They are very thin and soft but not cruelty-free.

Eye Lash Fans & Volume

2D, 2D, 4D, 5D, 6D, 7D…10D. What Is That?

Do you see these fans on the image down there? 

The first item displayed on the image below (on the left) is an example of the classic extension.

Then you start to notice the formation of what we call ‘FAN’, because it looks like a fan. 

Each fan has two or more lashes that are grouped together.

If a fan has two lashes, that means this is ad 2D type of eyelash; if it has three lashes, it’s a 3D, and so on.

The more lashes a fan is made of, the more dramatic the look gets.

Types Of Eyelash Applications

There are three types of most commonly used eyelash applications: the classic, the hybrid, and the volume application. 

Let’s take a closer look at each one of these types of eyelash extensions now.

1. Classic Eyelash Extension Application

The classic eyelash extensions are simple, chic, and look very natural.

The classic application takes a minimum of one hour and thirty minutes, and often time, it may take longer. 

If a professional promises less time, be aware that this technique requires concentration and attention to detail. 

2. Volume Eyelash Extension

As the name says, you can expect volume and boldness, because you can have 3 to 5 individual lashes attached to one natural lash ( 3D 4D 5D lashes – more on that later on this article)

These extension lashes can be 1-2 mm longer than your natural lashes, and the baseline is dark and thick giving the impression you are wearing eyeliner.

These lashes are a type of eyelash extension that you can find a couple of subtypes (let’s put it like that).

American Volume Eyelashes 

The American Volume lash has an uneven disposition, aka they are made of a combination of longer and slight less longer lashes.

As you can see they are bold and long but still look natural to some extent, I mean it won’t look weird at all and if you have a bold personality or if you are an artist, you could have these in mind.

Mega Volume Lashes

Alright, you have the idea. They are extra bold extensions and consist of a combination of a few super fine lashes (can be 6 or more).

These super fine lashes can be of 0.03 to 0.06 diameters and are placed on the natural lash, bringing this super cool, extra bold effect as you can see on the picture below.

More details about the russian volume extension

If you really like the russian volume extensions, but are worried that they might weigh down, have in mind that they won’t.

Of course if your lashes are very sensitive and if you have sensibility it is best to choose something such as the classic eyelash extension.

However, in most cases, the volume lash is still a good option, because it is even lighter than the classic lash.

This means that even though the russian lash comes with this dramatic full look, it is still very light weight, assuring maximum comfort for you.

Just to recap, the volume lash works by adding one ‘fan’ of lash extension to one natural lash. This fan may contain 3 to 5 lashes.

This can also be explained by ‘ratio’’, meaning that by adding one fan that contains 3 lashes in one natural lash, then we have a 1:3 ratio volume lash, or to be more simple, a 3D volume lash application.

NOTE: As you have noticed the term 2D, 3D, 4D and so on are used to describe how many lashes a lash fan contains).  This type of description I have just explained can be used for any type of ayeline extension. 

3. Hybrid Eyelash Extensions

There is not much to talk about them. Hybrid lashes turn out to be a combination of classic lashes plus volume lashes. That’s it. 

In my opinion, this is in the middle leve, not so basic but also not dramatic to the extreme. I still think that this suits best for artists, people that work at night and models.

If you work in an office (of course you do what you want and feel better), but I’d say that for executives and people in similar areas, the classic would be a better option.

So, what’s the difference between the classic, the volume and the hybrid eyelash extensions?

Classic Eyelash Extension

The Classic Eyelash extension is definitely going to give you the most natural look than the other types of lash extension.

Naturality is the main advantage here, but you cannot expect too much boost on volume. On the other hand, your lashes will look longer.

This is my favorite type of eyelash application, because it gives a natural look, something like the no makeup, makeup look.

Lashes will look fresh, pretty and beautiful all day, but the coolest part is to sleep without makeup and wake up like a diva.

Volume Eyelash Extensions

Volume eyelashes can offer a few options of final effect. You can choose what kind of look you like the best.

For example, if you are a little bored about the classic look, but don’t want to do something too exaggerated, but still want to add a little extra length and volume, you can go to the 2D or 3D volume eyelash extension.

Now let’s say you work at night at a club, events, or just love a very bold and dramatic look, just because you deserve it, you can opt for 5D volume eyelash and beyond.

Have in mind that if you apply the 5D lashes and higher, it’s gonna be too forcing evident that you are wearing lash extensions, but if you really like it and there’s no harm, who cares?

The options vary from 2D to 10D so you have a lot of options to think about, just based on your own taste and of course, always making sure it suits your own style and biotype.

Hybrid Lashes Extensions

The hybrid lashes can be found in different textures and can add a lot of volume to your eyelashes as well.

 Even though I still find the hybrid lash extension a bit exaggerated, It can also work as a good option if you like the volume effect but want to be on the intermediate side (compared to the volume lash).

This is the style the Kardashians use and if there is one thing I can’t deny is that it looks pretty darn good on them.

Classic Vs. Volume Vs. Hybrid Lashes Extensions

While classic lashes are applied on a 1:1 ratio (one classic lash applied on one natural lash), the Volume extension has different ratio options (from 1:2 until 1:10).

The hybrid is the combination of both types of eyelash extensions and can consist of a combination of 30% classic and 70% volume lashes.

In terms of costs, if you think that the classic lashes are applied on a 1:1 ratio, it is much easier to apply, therefore are normally more affordable than the other types of eyelash extensions. 

The volume lashes are more expensive, because they are much more minuncious to prepare, requires more time to be applied and more expertise from the professional.

In terms of volume, of course the volume eyelash extension is gonna give you the most dramatic look and the hybrid might be something in the middle. 

In terms of duration, volume lashes might take longer, and the classic gets a little spydery before the other options. But now you might be asking:

What is the best? Classic, Volume or Hybrid Lashes Extensions?

They are all great and the one you should pick will depend on what you like and combine with your own style. 

For those with thick eyelashes, it is probable that they won’t need something more than the classic eyelash extension. 

If you have thinner lashes, the hybrid will bring a real beautiful effect. In my opinion the 3D eyelash should be enough but if you want a bolder look, go for it!

Anyways, it is always a good idea to talk to a good professional, before taking any decision further. 

They do it everyday and have come across many different types of people and style, they should be able to advise on the best optin, in case you still haven’t made up your mind.

Types Of Eyelash ExtensionThickness, Lengths, Curl, Diameter 

In this section, we are going to take a look at Types Of Eyelash ExtensionThickness, Lengths, Curl, Diameter.

It’s important to know these options before reaching the saloon, because you can be conscious not only about the possible type of look you end up deciding, but also about the details that will compose your new look.

NOTE: Have in mind that sizes, thickness, lengths, curls diameters and things like that may vary  from one salon to another. 

Eyelash Extension Thickness

Down below you can see the thickness chart that I got from the LashResource.com. Thickness Starts at 0.05mm and finishes at 0.30mm.

Credit: LashResource.com 

The best type of thickness is up to you and go for what you think that suits your biotype and personality.

However it’s good to have in mind that the thicker they get, the heavier they will be and of course, the thinner they are, the more natural they get.

Eyelash Length

Eyelash extensions can come in a variety of sizes. The smallest can start at 0.08 mm, and can go as long as 0.17mm. The higher you go, the bolder you get!

If you have longer lashes, you can use the long lash extensions. If you have thinner lashes, you should use the thinner versions.

Credit: LashResource.com 

As I have mentioned on my note above, there might be variations, depending on the salon you perform your extension.

There are places for example that length start at 0.05mm all the way to 0.18mm. Every establishment should be able to provide you with a chart or table with these details.

Type Of Eyelash Extension Curvature

You can also define what type of curls your new lashes will have. As you can see at the image below, different letters define different curls: J, B, C, CC, D and L. 

Credit: LashResource.com 

Curves J, B, and C are really similar. The CC, D and L are extremely curved. The L looks really like an L.  

In my opinion, I think the C is the nicest curve for a cool bold but still natural look. But of course I’m pretty sure each type of curve has its own beauty.

No matter the curve you choose, make sure you pick one that is going to reflect your personality.

Also be aware that different salons might have different curves and additional curves to the ones that we presented here. It’s good to research different places to find the one you like the best.

Different Styles Of Eyelash Extension

So far, we have talked about a few aspects of different types of eyelash extension: types of Material, types of application, length, thickness, curves and now, it’s type to talk about the different styles.

It is important to state that down below there will be the most commonly used types of eyelash extensions, but I am not stating these are the only options available out there.

This is because different salons might have created their own style, so it is always great to check with different salons to be aware of the different variations. 

I’m gonna place here a few different (and interesting styles) that I’ve curated from the internet, so you can have a good range of selection.

NOTE: I’m taking the credits to the respective image owners and placing it below each image, so feel free to check them out for further information.

What are the different types of eyelash styles?

The first example different eyelash styles I got from the Golden Beauty Lashes and they illustrate four different styles. 

Looking For a dramatic look?

For those looking for a more dramatic look, the examples on the image below are a bomb. This pic I found on instagram and seems like it belongs to Viva Esthetics.

Even though we have talked about these styles on types of application, I put it here, because they can also be considered as a style. 

But heads up because these examples are going to give you a better idea of the density of these different types of eyelash applications.

On the button, the last picture is actually really basic, because it’s the classic style. But all the other ones are pretty bold.

In my opinion, I think the classic and the hybrid are the prettiest. But I am part of the basic style. If your personality allows you to use the Volume, I’m sure it’s gonna look great on you.

The Natural Styles

They are the Natural Eye, Open Eye, Cat Eye, Doll Eye. In my opinion, the prettiest ones are the Natural Eye and the Doll Eye.

More Natural Styles

The image below I took from chiclashboutique.co.uk studio. These are also pretty common styles of eyelash extensions. They are the Gorgeous, Cute, Sexy, sweet and natural.  

I love all the options on the image, especially the sexy style, but there is one style I didn’t like quite much, that’s the sweet.

Final Thoughts and Summary 

When we talk about types of eyelash extensions, It’s funny how we may never imagine that there are quite a few things to take into consideration.

I think the first questions that might have popped up in your mind when you decided that an eyelash extension could be a good idea were:

1. What are the types of eyelash extension I will find out there? 
2. Which one is the best for me?

Ok, maybe these weren’t the first questions that popped up in your head, but surely enough they are pretty important questions that you should not forget to ask.

There are actually quite a few things that we need to think about. Here’s a quick summary:

1. The type of material of the eyelash

First of all, the lash extension can be made out of animal or synthetic material (pretty please I hope you choose the synthetic options, they are much cooler and I’m sure you’ll love it). 

The most used types of material are Mink, Synthetic silk, sable. We are going to talk about those in more details, but here’s a quick hint:

• Mink Lashes are made out of real Mink fur (animal product)
• Faux Mink are synthetic lashes and imitates real mink lashes and guess what? They look much better in my opinion
• Synthetic silk (as the name already stated)

2. The type of Application

By deciding the types of application (or techniques of application) you will be deciding how dramatic or discrete you want your extension to be.

• If you’re looking for a lot of volume, then do the volume extension
• Do you prefer a more classic look? Do the Classic eyelash extension
• Looking to combine class with volume? Do the Hybrid eyelash extension

We are looking at each one of these techniques in more detail down the lines, so keep on reading to learn more, check images and comparisons.

3. Thickness, Lengths, Curvature, Diameter 

Once you have thought about the material there are a few questions you should ask yourself. Here’ a list:

• How thick should it be?
• How long should it be?
• What type of curl? Not so curved, very curved?
• What about the diameter? 1D, 2D, 3D …10 D?

5. Style Of The eyelash Extension

There are many types of eyelash extensions and it can vary depending on the saloon you choose to get them done.

Make sure you ask the salon some personalised advice and assist you to find the best style that matches your personality and life-style.

Here’s a few things to think about, discuss and take into consideration with your eyelash stylist while deciding for your type of eyelash extensions:

• The shape and size of your eyes
•  The eyelids: There are styles that work better in some types of eyelids than others)
•  Eye color
• The type of your natural eyelashes 
• Do you prefer a more natural or a dramatic look? Maybe something in the middle?

Eyelash Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Let’s finish this article with some of the frequent questions, not only about types of eyelash extensions but about eyelash extensions in general.

 The idea is to keep this article updated with more questions, and if you have your own question, you can submit them in the comments section below.          

1. What are lashes extensions?

You know what are hair extensions right? You glue or ‘sew’ someone’s hair on your head, and combine it with your own hair.

Lash extensions have the same concept but you will glue fake lashes and combine it with your own lashes. 

The results are fuller, longer, voluminous and more curved lashes. Day and night even without makeup. 

This is conquering many women, even those that already have full long lashes, because it is very practical, you don’t need to apply mascara all the time, you know…facilities of modern times! 

2. What to Expect from Eyelash Extensions?

In addition to longer, fuller and more voluminous curled lashes, this technique will leave your eyes more defined. 

Do you remember someone that has that impact on the way they look? 

If the eyelash extension is well done, and you choose a type of eyelash extension that suits your face, it will give that signature of impact.

But not only this, it fills gaps in your eyelashes, and boosts your confidence, not to mention how practical it will be because you will surely save a few minutes on your makeup routine.

Here we have some advantages you should expect to gain by doing and eyeline extension:

• Longer Eyelashes
• Fuller Eyelashes
• Eyes look more defined
• No need to apply eye mascara
• Fill Eyelash Gaps
• Curled eyelashes 
• Saving time on your daily routine because with eyelash extensions you don’t need to apply eye mascara to define and full your lashes
• You looking prettier than ever

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