Classic vs Hybrid vs Volume Eyelash Extensions

If you’re new to the world of eyelash extensions, understanding the differences between classic lashes, volume lashes, and hybrid lashes is essential for understanding the service you’re receiving and making an informed decision about what you’ll choose for your upcoming appointment.

In this full guide, I will explain each technique and compare them to help you decide which one is best for you. 

Classic vs Hybrid vs Volume Eyelash Extensions – Which is better?

After carefully analyzing each of the eyelash extension styles, some of you may have preferred classic, others volume, and still others a hybrid style. Because each style has advantages and disadvantages based on your eye and lash features.

For clients who want a natural and professional look, I recommend the classic style of lash extensions. However, if you’re looking for oomph, such as for a wedding, volume or mega volume would be ideal.

However, when a client wants dramatic lashes that look natural for casual fun wear, I recommend the hybrid eyelash extension style. The best type of lash for you is determined by your lash goals.

Choose classic lashes if:

• You desire a natural everyday appearance for your home and office.

• You desire light lashes.

• You desire longer lashes.

• You want lashes that are simple to apply.

Choose volume lashes if:

• You want to look dramatic for a wedding, date, music festival, or night out.

• You desire fuller lashes.

• You have naturally sparse or thin lashes.

Choose hybrid lashes if:

• You want classic lashes with more texture and volume but not volume lashes.

• You want a more lush everyday appearance for work or at home.

• You want a fuller look than traditional lashes to fill in any gaps.

• Volume lashes are ideal if you want a less uniform, more natural look.

What Are Classic Eyelash Extensions?

The most common type of eyelash extension is classic lashes, which are used for more traditional and natural lash looks. It’s ideal for achieving a simple and modest look, especially if you don’t want to appear flashy.

They are especially suitable for everyday wear because they are not overly dramatic or distracting. Classic lashes can help if you already have a lot of lashes but just need more length. They can also be used in place of regular mascara.

One false eyelash is applied for every natural eyelash. They are thicker than the ones used for volume because of the 1:1 ratio.

What Makes Classic Lashes Unique?

Classic lashes are distinguished from other techniques by two main features:

#1 Ratio: Classic eyelash extensions are applied at a 1:1 ratio. That is, one eyelash extension is added for every natural lash, one by one, to fill the lash line. As there is only one artificial lash on top of a natural lash, the overall appearance is natural.

An average eye has 90 to 150 natural lashes, which means that 80 to 100 eyelash extensions can be added. It all depends on how lush or thick your natural lashes are and how thick you want your extensions to be.

#2 Thickness: The thickness referred to here is the size of an eyelash extension. Today, eyelash extensions come in a variety of sizes, with the smallest measuring 0.10 mm to 0.12 mm and the largest measuring 0.15 mm.

To put things into perspective, here’s a list of the weights of various lash extensions:

0.07 mm is 0.00006 g

0.10 mm is 0.00010 g

0.12 mm is 0.00013 g

0.15 mm is 0.00015 g

0.18 mm is 0.00025 g

0.20 mm is 0.00030 g

Thicker extensions may be used for those who have naturally thick and strong lashes. It should be noted that as the thickness of the extensions increases, so does their weight.

Who Should Use Classic Lashes?

Classic false lashes were the first type of eyelash extensions, and they’re still a popular choice among many people. It’s an excellent option for beginners looking for eyelash extensions. This style of false lashes is ideal for those who have long and thick natural eyelashes. It’s also ideal if you have a lot of natural eyelashes.

Besides that, those who do not want their extensions to be too obvious or fancy can opt for the classic eyelash set. That is why it is referred to as the “no-extensions look” or the “natural look.”

If you want to add extreme curl and length to your natural lashes, talk to your lash technician about it when you get this set because there are many options.

If you have a small number of natural lashes, the classic set will appear sparse on your eyes. Volume lashes would be more appropriate in such cases.

The Advantages of Classic Lashes

QUICKEST: Unlike volume or hybrid lashes, lash technicians only need to apply one extension per natural lash for the classic set. This saves time and allows an experienced artist to complete the job quickly.

CHEAPEST: When it comes to the total number of eyelash extensions used, the classic set uses the fewest, while the volume and hybrid sets use double or triple the number of fake lashes.

As a result of the lower cost of materials for the salon (fewer synthetic lashes are used) and the simpler technique, classic lashes are less expensive than hybrid or volume lashes. So, if you don’t want to spend a lot of money on your lashes, the classic set is for you.

Natural: This is the most significant benefit of this type of extension. The classic set is ideal for achieving a natural look with eyelash extensions.

The Drawbacks of Classic Lashes

A classic set of extensions is the most common and basic treatment you can get with eyelash extensions, but that doesn’t make it any less customized. Within the classic set, you’ll find styles like cat eye, dolly, natural sweep, and more.

Not fluffy enough: While the classic style achieves a natural look, it lacks the lush, full, and voluminous appearance of volume or hybrid eyelash extensions.

Not suitable for everyone: Classic eyelash extensions are not a good choice if you have thin or sparse lashes because it is difficult to fill in the gaps with extensions evenly.

What to Keep in Mind When Getting Classic Lashes

You want to achieve a natural look with the classic set by extending the length of your natural lashes. It creates the appearance of a fuller lash line while remaining natural. You want to achieve a natural look with the classic set by extending the length of your natural lashes.

It creates the appearance of a fuller lash line while remaining natural. It is still the most popular technique used by lash artists and salons today. Whatever style of eyelash extensions you choose, make sure to check the credentials of the person performing the procedure.

Always ask for client references and take your time when interviewing potential lash artists. The right person will not only provide you with treatment but will also provide you with after-care products and application advice.

Classic Lashes Price

The price of a traditional lash extension set varies from salon to salon. I conducted a case study in which I gathered pricing information from dozens of eyelash salons across the United States. To find out how much eyelash extensions cost, read the results here.

In this study, I discovered that classic lashes cost an average of $164 for a full set, with a minimum of $80 and a maximum of $375. The average cost of classic refills is $71, with a minimum of $30 and a maximum of $160.

What Are Volume Eyelash Extensions?

Volume lashes are a step up from traditional lashes with fluff and volume, and they guarantee a dramatic look to the wearer. After classic lashes, it came out as a Russian volume. The style gives your eyes a young and youthful appearance.

In what is known as a “volume fan,” volume eyelash extensions use more than one extension per natural lash. It could be a volume fan or a mega volume fan, depending on the fans used. A volume lash fan typically uses 2 to 5 extensions per fan, whereas a mega volume fan uses 6 to 16 artificial lashes.

Volume lashes are a more advanced eyelash extension technique. A perfect look with volume lashes requires a great deal of skill and expertise.

What Makes Volume Lashes Unique?

The two most important features that distinguish volume lashes from other techniques are:

#1 Ratio: Volume eyelash extensions are applied in a one-to-many ratio. That is, several eyelash extensions are applied for each natural lash. The eyelash extensions are bundled together in a volume fan before being applied to your natural lashes.

On individual lashes, a lash technician applies 2 to 16 lashes per fan. The ratio is determined by the degree of volume effect desired. The total number of extensions per fan is denoted as 2D, 3D, 5D, 7D, 10D, and so on.

#2 Thickness: A volume set uses multiple lash extensions in each fan, and the thickness of each extension is generally thinner than in a classic set.Lash technicians typically use false lashes ranging in size from 0.05 to 0.07 mm for standard volume sets and 0.03 to 0.05 mm for mega volume sets.

For example, a 10D fan might use 0.03 mm extensions, a 4D fan might use 0.05 mm extensions, and a 2D volume fan might use 0.07 mm extensions. The total weight of the fan is also determined by the strength of your natural eyelashes. Your natural lashes may be damaged if the fan is too heavy.

Who Should Use Volume Lashes?

Volume lashes, a type of fluffy and voluminous lash, have been popular for about two decades. Before committing to everyday wear, most clients prefer it for special occasions such as proms, weddings, and anything else significant.

Volume lashes are ideal for those who prefer glam makeup to natural makeup. Volume lashes aren’t as thick as classic lashes, so they’re a good choice if you have thin, weak, or sparse lashes. Volume extensions are preferred over the classic style by those who have a habit of wearing strip lashes.

Classic lashes, on the other hand, are a better option if you prefer a more natural look that simply adds a little “je ne sais quoi.”

The Advantages of Volume Lashes

Extraordinary look: Volume lashes and mega volume sets work differently for special occasions when you want to look your best. It’s a popular look among brides these days because volume lashes last from the bachelorette party to the honeymoon and beyond.

Fuller lashes: Several lash fans are added to each natural lash to fill gaps if your lashes are sparse. You get long, fine lashes that make you look stunning all the time.

look dramatic: Volume lashes are the best way to make your eyes look dramatic. Make sure to communicate this to the lash technician so that they can make your eyes look as dramatic as you desire.

The Drawbacks of Volume Lashes

Long procedure: Volume lashes necessitate the creation of fans before they can be applied to your natural lashes. Making a new fan is a sophisticated step, and a volume set requires a large number of fans. As a result, they require more time to apply than a standard lash set.

It might be too much: Volume and mega volume may be too much for some people when it comes to an everyday look. Volume lashes, unlike traditional lashes, are not appropriate for a wide range of professional settings. Volume eyelash extensions, for example, may not be acceptable for nurses or those working in food production.

Most artists aren’t experienced: Seeing as volume lash extension treatment differs from the classic set and requires additional training, not every artist offers it. Also, most artists are inexperienced enough to understand the nuances of performing this set, such as keeping the weight of fans light. You can avoid this by hiring a skilled lash artist to perform the set!

Expensive: So a volume set requires more lash extensions, time, energy, and skill. It is 1.5x more expensive than a classic set. However, it may be a one-time commitment or trial before returning to the classic or hybrid set.

What to Keep in Mind When Getting Volume Lashes

If you’re wondering whether fans used in volume lash sets will harm your natural lashes, the first step is to consult with a certified artist. Licensed lash technicians, in essence, make their own fans. Pre-made or professionally applied fans are typically clusters that weigh down on your natural lashes and cause lash loss.

The majority of lash artists do not use clusters or pre-made lashes. Going to an experienced artist also ensures that your fans are freshly made and the ideal weight for your natural lashes. Custom-made fans also allow the lash artist to adapt each fan to the situation for a perfect look.

Russian Volume

Your lash stylist handcrafts Russian Volume fans before applying them to your natural lashes. Typically, your stylist can create fans in a range of lengths and curls, ranging from 2D to 6D. Typically, for a fuller lash look, select a volume set with a large number of extensions in the fan.

Our 6D Volume Set, which gives you thick, black, lush lashes perfect for fluttering at any special event, is the most complete set we currently offer in the salon.

Mega Volume

Mega Volume Lashes, a newcomer to the eyelash extension scene, prefers very fine extensions in sizes ranging from 8D-14D. The extension diameter we use for Mega Volume is typically as small as 0.03mm, implying that a stylist who can create beautiful Mega Volume fans is very skilled!

These lashes appear extremely dense and dramatic, and are ideal for more experienced fake lash wearers who want to go hard or go home!

Volume Lashes Price

Since a volume set requires more time and total lashes, the cost per full set is higher than for a classic set. Besides that, not every lash technician has experience with volume lash extensions. This is due to the fact that a volume eyelash set is an advanced skill that is both expensive and time-consuming.

What Are Hybrid Eyelash Extensions?

The hybrid style is one of the most recent lash treatments available today. Classic and volume lashes are combined to create a hybrid variety that customizes your eyes even better than either style. When done correctly by an experienced lash technician, hybrid lashes can look naturally beautiful. In some salons, they’re also known as mixed set lashes.

What Makes Hybrid Lashes Unique?

The two most important features that distinguish hybrid lashes from other techniques are:

#1 Ratio: As previously stated, classic lashes use a ratio of one extension to one natural lash, whereas volume lashes use a ratio of many extensions to one natural lash. As a result, the density of the hybrid set can vary between the two styles and ultimately depend on the look you want.

In a hybrid set, eyelash technicians typically go for 50-50 or 70% volume and 30% classic. Often, lash technicians will ask if you want the fluffy lashes in the middle or towards the corners. Each option results in a unique appearance.

For example, adding volume lashes in the middle creates an open-eye look. Adding volume to the inner and outer corners of your eyes will make them appear contoured and tapered.

#2 Thickness: So a hybrid lash set combines the thicknesses of both volume and classic sets, the thicknesses vary. Your lash technician may apply classic lashes with thicknesses of 0.07 mm, 0.10 mm, or even 0.15 mm, or volume lashes with thicknesses of 0.03 mm and 0.05 mm.

However, at Divine Lashes, we rarely use more than 5D fans on hybrid sets. Why not go beyond 5D fans, you may wonder? Simply because, otherwise, what’s the point? If you want 5D+ fans in a hybrid set, perhaps a volume set would be more appropriate.

Who Should Use Hybrid Lashes?

If you have medium-length, healthy lashes, hybrid lashes are the way to go. Having said that, hybrid lash treatment also works wonders on those with thin or weak lashes. To be honest, the hybrid lash style is best for clients who are hesitant to try the volume or mega volume lash sets.

If you’re wondering the same thing but are content with classic sets, this is the best way to update your look. The hybrid set is an excellent opportunity to experiment with fluff while also adding fullness. It is also more personalized than volume or classic lash extensions.

The Advantages of Hybrid Lashes

Not overly simple, not overly dramatic: Hybrid sets are wispy and textured for every eye, promising a natural look with a hint of drama.

The best of both worlds: The hybrid style combines volume and length in a single treatment. It combines fullness with a fine texture. Hybrid lashes are the way to go if you want a dense and full classic set.

A good way to test before committing to volume: If you don’t want to get mega volume right away or believe it takes away the unnaturalness of the lashes, the hybrid can be a good option. If you are dissatisfied with classic lashes, see gaps between them, or your workplace does not accept a bold style such as volume lashes, hybrid is a good option.

Hybrid is ideal for those who have lash issues: it works for people who have thick, thin, sparse, or weak lashes. If you have sparse lashes and want a dramatic look, hybrid lashes are a good option.

The Drawbacks of Hybrid Lashes

Needs an experienced lash tech: Not every lash artist is capable of performing a good hybrid set. You need a tech who is familiar with both classic and volume styles so that they can personalize a look that best frames your eyes.

Has a high cost: At most certified lash salons, the hybrid set may be more expensive than classic eyelashes. However, they require more time and skill than traditional lashes. At the same time, hybrid lashes are less expensive than volume lashes.

Long application time: The hybrid set, like volume lashes, requires the lash artist to create unique fans for your eyes. As a result, it can easily take more than two hours, and in some cases up to three hours, for certain artists to perform a full set.

What to Keep in Mind When Getting Hybrid Lashes

If you want to try the hybrid lash set, go to a salon that has plenty of experience with both classic and volume sets. Make sure to describe the look you want because this is the best style for getting the most tailored look for your eyes.

If you’ve been wearing the classic set for a long time, hybrid lashes may take some getting used to. It’s a great option if you can’t decide between classic and volume, as it provides an intermediate look between the two.

Hybrid Lashes Price

A hybrid set of eyelash extensions takes less time to complete than a volume set, but it uses more extensions than a classic set. As a result, hybrid lash treatments are priced somewhere between classic and volume lashes across the country.

A hybrid full set costs $192 per session on average. The least expensive eyelash treatment is $100, and the most expensive is $345. If you want a hybrid refill, it can cost up to $84. While the minimum fee is $55, the maximum fee is $220 per session.

Related Articles

• Wispy Lash Extensions
• Cat Eyelash Extensions
• 11 Reason Why I Stopped Eyelash Extensions
• Eyelash Extensions Aftercare

Conclusion

The debate over classic lashes versus volume lashes versus hybrid lashes is raging. These three main lash extension styles promise various applications and looks.

The lash technician applies one false eyelash for every natural lash in the classic set. Each lash in a volume set is attached with a fan made of several eyelash extensions. A hybrid set incorporates a mix of volume and classic styles.

The classic set is the most affordable of the three options. It ensures a natural look by utilizing the fewest number of extensions possible, with thicker extensions. That is why it is an excellent choice for those with thick lashes.

Volume sets are the most expensive and are rarely available with new lash techs. It requires skill and experience, but it is ideal for those who have gaps in their eyelashes. This look also makes use of a lot of eyelashes that are thinner in diameter than the traditional set.

Classic appears natural, whereas volume and mega volume take it to the next level. The in-between look is a hybrid. If a client has thin natural lashes and wants dramatic lashes, a hybrid style is ideal to fill in the gaps in their natural lash line because classic would not wow them.

It’s also a great way to experiment with volume fans without committing fully. There is no superior eyelash extension style. Each has its own set of benefits and features. In general, these are the common dos and don’ts of eyelash extensions to avoid.

Remember that each lash style can alter the appearance of your eyes and the way they complement your facial features. You should let the lash technician know what you want ahead of time. Above all, work with a licensed and experienced artist to ensure that you get the best deal possible.