Classic, Hybrid, or Volume Lashes: Which Should I Get?

The most common question at a first lash appointment is "which set should I get?" The quick way to decide: classic lashes look like your own lashes on their best day with mascara, volume lashes look full and dark like a strip lash, and hybrid sits in between. If you wear little makeup, start classic. If you love a dramatic eye, choose volume. If you cannot decide, hybrid is the easy middle. When you are ready, book your lash appointment online.

How the three sets differ

All three are applied one natural lash at a time. The difference is what goes on each of your lashes.

• Classic Eyelash Extension: one extension on each natural lash. Adds length and curl, keeps a natural line. Best for guests with a healthy number of natural lashes who want to skip mascara.
• Volume Eyelash Extensions: a handmade fan of several very fine extensions on each natural lash. Fills in sparse areas and gives the darkest, fullest line. Best for guests with fewer natural lashes or who love a glam look.
• Hybrid Eyelash Extension: a mix of classic and volume. Texture and fullness without going all the way to volume. Best for guests who want more than classic but still want it to look like lashes, not a lash strip.

Three questions that settle it

1. How many natural lashes do you have? Extensions need a natural lash to sit on. Sparse lashes look fuller with volume fans than with classic singles.
2. What does your everyday makeup look like? Bare face most days points to classic. Full eye makeup most days points to hybrid or volume.
3. What do you want people to notice? If you want people to say you look rested, choose classic. If you want people to ask about your lashes, choose volume.

Bring a photo of a lash look you like. Your lash artist will tell you honestly whether your natural lashes can carry it.

What a fill is and why you need one

Natural lashes shed every day, and each extension leaves with the lash it sits on. A fill replaces what has grown out so the set keeps looking full. On our menu, classic and hybrid sets share a Classic Or Hybrid Eyelash Fill, and volume sets have their own Volume Eyelash Fill. Many guests come in for a fill every two to three weeks; your lash artist will tell you what schedule fits your lashes. If you want to take a set off completely, book Lash Removal rather than pulling them, which can take your natural lashes with them.

When a lash lift is the better choice

If you like your own lashes and want them curled and lifted without fills, an Eyelash Lift curls your natural lashes from the root. Add an Eyelash Tint to darken them, and many guests skip mascara for weeks. A lift is also a good way to test whether you want more before committing to extensions.

Making your lashes last

• Keep them dry for the time your lash artist recommends after the appointment.
• Use an oil-free cleanser around the eyes and brush the lashes gently each morning.
• Skip mascara on extensions and avoid rubbing or pulling at them.
• Sleep on your back or on a satin pillowcase if you can.

A brushed up brow makes lashes stand out even more. If your brows need help, read our post on brow lamination and microblading.

Frequently asked questions

Which lash extensions look the most natural?

Classic lash extensions. One extension goes on each natural lash, so the result looks like your own lashes with mascara.

What is the difference between hybrid and volume lashes?

Volume uses a fan of several fine extensions on every natural lash. Hybrid mixes classic singles and volume fans, so it is fuller than classic but softer than volume.

Should I get a lash lift or lash extensions?

Choose a lash lift if you like your natural lashes and want them curled without regular fills. Choose extensions if you want more length or fullness than your natural lashes have.

Come See Us

Read more on our eyelash extensions page, see every lash service with its price and time on the Service Menu, and book your lashes online at our Bloomington salon.