Classic, Hybrid, And Volume Eyelash Extensions: What’s The Difference?

If you’re new to the world of eyelash extensions, it can take some time to learn the terminology and understand what the difference is. There are so many different effects that can be achieved with each type. 

All eyelash extensions make your eyes look bigger, brighter, and make you look more awake and put together without the need for makeup. But what is the difference between classic, volume and hybrid lashes? Keep reading to find out!

What are classic eyelash extensions?

Classic eyelash extensions are – as their namesake – classic. They are simple, beautiful, natural-looking lash extensions. They are applied on a 1:1 ratio, which means one extension on one natural lash. This allows you to achieve an understated, natural enhancement. 

If you want eyelash extensions that will only be noticeable to your friends who know what eyelash extensions look like, classic eyelashes are a great place to start. Classic eyelash extensions come in a range of materials, thicknesses (1 – 1.5mm) and styles, so talk to your technician about the look you are trying to achieve.  

Classic lash extension application typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours (if someone tells you they can do it in under an hour, it’s not a good sign). The result should be soft, natural-looking lashes your friends won’t know isn’t just a great mascara. 

What are volume eyelash extensions? 

Volume eyelash extensions offer you a full, better-than-falsies look that gives you some serious glamour and drama. Volume lashes (also known as Russian volume lash extensions) were invented by Russian technicians only recently. 

And involve applying a “fan” of lash extensions to one lash. So, instead of the 1:1 ratio of classic lashes, you may have a 1:3 or 1:5. This is how the luxurious volume is achieved! 

2D, 3D, 5D define the number of lashes in each fan. So, if a lash look you like is “3D” it has a 1:3 ratio. 2D and 3D lashes give a natural, voluminous look, while higher volumes give a dramatic look. The highest volume you are likely to find is 10D – though this is an extreme falsie look!  

What are hybrid lashes? 

Women beautiful eye and amazing volume eyelash extensions

Hybrid lashes are a 70-30 mixture of both classic lashes and volume lashes. Choosing hybrid eyelash extensions gives you the best of both worlds. You can try volume lashes for the first time and get the beautiful Kardashian look, as it was first popularised by them. 

This look has since spread across Hollywood. Stars love it because it offers a wispy, natural lash line with a little drama. The look is achieved by mixing classic lashes and volume lashes placed strategically to frame the eyes. 

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

Classic Eyelash Extensions

The biggest difference is in the result you can achieve with each – classic lashes won’t add much volume but will add length. Classic eyelash extensions offer you an even lash line that opens up the eye. It helps you look made-up right from the moment you wake up, and builds on your natural lash beauty. 

Hybrid Lashes

Hybrid lashes offer you a varied texture and more volume, but without the sometimes-unnatural look of volume lashes. This is the look the Kardashians made popular, so the lash line is broken and almost “spikey”. 

Though of course, the lashes are very soft! If you look at Hollywood stars and wonder how they all have such beautiful and long natural lashes, here’s your answer! 

Volume Eyelash extensions

Volume eyelash extensions vary from an extremely natural look which adds some length and volume (2D and 3D lashes), to a very dramatic and full look (5D up). 5D and higher may look like you are wearing false lashes all the time. 

Though of course the lashes are attached to your natural lashes. So there is no bulky strip or lash separation to be seen. 2D lashes are very comparable to classic lashes, just with some extra volume which may be just what you’re looking for. 

Classic lashes are applied individually on a 1:1 ratio, hybrid typically uses 30% classic lashes and 70% volume lashes (variable ratio), and volume ranges from 1:2 to 1:10 generally. 

Another difference to take into consideration is the cost of application. Classic lashes require little preparation, so are a much more affordable option if budget is important to you. 

This is because volume lashes require a higher level of skill and larger time investment on the part of the technician, as they handmake the fans beforehand. 

However, classic lashes often become “spidery” sooner than volume lashes. And need infills, because there are fewer lashes when they break or fall out there are fewer lashes to maintain the look. 

What’s better, classic, hybrid, or volume eyelashes? 

Any! It really does depend on the look you want to achieve and on your natural lashes. If you are lucky enough to have thick natural lashes you may decide to get classic lashes, so your look isn’t too dramatic. 

If you don’t have naturally thick lashes, you may prefer to choose hybrid lash extensions to get the best of both worlds. Of course, 3D eyelash extensions and other volumes will likely give you lashes you won’t stop looking at. 

Should I get classic, hybrid, or volume lashes? 

The answer to this question can only be answered by you. And if you aren’t sure, discuss the options with your eyelash extension technician. 

They will be able to help you achieve the look you are looking for and talk to you about what is best for your natural eyelashes. If you are interested in learning more about the consultation process, read this post on great consultations.

Are you someone who wears fake eyelashes whenever you go out? If so, you’ll love the full look volume lashes can achieve – you’ll have that full look without having to apply or remove them! If not, discuss hybrid and classic lashes for a natural look.