Difference: Classic vs Russian Volume Eyelash Extensions

Classic, Volume or Hybrid eyelash extensions? What is the difference and which is better? What do they all mean? In this post I’ll help you find out which type of lashes are best for you.

CLASSIC LASHES

Classic extensions are the most traditional form of eyelash extensions and provide a ready to go mascara effect with extra length, definition and curl. This means that there is a single 1:1 extension applied to each natural lash. As these type of lash extensions are limited to the number of real ones you have, they will look best if you have a normal to abundant number of natural lashes that are thick and strong, and you prefer a natural, mascara look. If you have sparse lashes and want to add volume or density to your lash line, these may not be the best option for you. You’ll want to try out either Hybrid or Russian Volume lashes!

Classic Individual Semi-Permanent Extensions

VOLUME LASHES

This is a specialised technique where multiple lashes are fanned and applied to each natural lash from a ratio of 2:1 (2D) i.e. two extensions per natural lash, up to 10:1 (10D) in mega volume. A very popular ratio is 3:1 or 4:1 also known as 3D lashes or 4D lashes. The volume extensions are much finer and lighter than classic extensions resulting in a denser, softer and fluffier look than traditional classics. As the ratio increases, the type of volume lashes also get finer and lighter so that your natural lashes can hold the weight without any damage - the health and safety of your real eyelashes and roots is very important. Lash thickness of 0.10mm is commonly used for 2D (2:1), and 0.07 or 0.06mm for 3D and 4D. In some types of mega volume it is even possible to go up to 20:1 (20D) using a diameter of 0.03mm!

Russian Volume lashes are a good option to try if you have sparse natural ones as the multiple extensions fan out and cover any gaps in the lash line giving the effect of density or fullness. You also get the same benefits of added length and curl of classic lashes.

If you already have a normal or abundant amount of real eyelashes, russian volume can give you a softer, fluffier look than classics or a very dramatic and dense lash line with mega volume .

4D Russian Volume Lashes

HYBRID LASHES

If you’d like an effect fuller than classics but aren’t quite ready to jump into the world of russian volume, hybrid lashes are a great way to dip your toe in. Hybrid lashes are a mixed blend of classic and volume and have the benefit of definition from classics with a touch of softness from russian volumes.

This mixed technique is also a great option if you have a good amount of real lashes but are recovering from a bad set of lash extensions applied elsewhere and are missing some of them or have minor gaps as the volume fans will cover them to create a more even lash line.

Hybrid Lashes

I’M NEW TO LASHES - WHICH TYPE IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Often people like to start with Classic lashes and after getting used to having extensions, they opt for the russian volumes which offer a dense, fuller and fluffier effect. When choosing between Classics and Volume, the most important things to consider are how healthy, strong and thick your natural lashes are, if your lash line has gaps, whether they are naturally thin and sparse, as well as the final effect and look that you would like to achieve.

The best lashes are the ones that suit your individual personality and style, and make you feel comfortable!

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7 Tips on How to Choose the Right Lash Artist

If you are interested in getting eyelash extensions done for the first time or recently moved to a new city like London and are on the hunt for a new lash artist, here are a few tips to help you pick the right one for you.

1. Are they certified and licensed?
This is by far the most important thing to consider when looking for a new lash artist. Being licensed means your potential artist has successfully trained with a reputable lash artist or industry brand and is insured by an accredited body. This means they will have at minimum, a basic knowledge of bacterial sanitation and proper application techniques for long-term eyelash health.

The majority of certified lash artists have been trained specifically in eyelash extensions. Going to an artist who is up to date in the industry and who invests in annual ongoing training is the type of lash artist you’d want to have servicing you as they will be using the latest and best practices, as well as advise you should any issues pop up later down the line.

The image on the left shows an example of a client who came to us with poorly applied lash extensions - six natural eyelashes are stuck together with way too much glue applied and also sticking to eyelid skin causing irritation and pain. The image on the right shows how lash extensions should be applied when done professionally - fully isolated and close to, but not touching the skin with no irritation or swelling.

2. They have you read and sign consent forms before your first treatment

A lash artist who is professional and licensed will make sure that you are fully informed and understand any potential risks and contraindications, either at the time of booking or at your first visit to the salon before your treatment starts. As with any procedure there are rare but possible risks such as allergies to lash adhesive. You’ll usually be asked for consent on having before and after photos taken of your lashes too.

3. They offer eyelash consultations

If it’s your first time having lash extensions there should be an opportunity at the appointment or at consultation to have a chat with the lash artist and go over any questions or concerns, as well as get advice on the appropriate type, length and curl suitable for your face and eye shape. The lash artist will educate you on your options and give an honest opinion if a certain style for example - a heavy, mega volume set wouldn’t be supported by your natural lashes and they might advise a healthier alternative close to the look you’d like to achieve but which your natural lashes can hold. There should also be an opportunity to patch test, usually along with your consultation to help rule out potential adhesive allergies.

4. The lash artist posts photos of their work regularly

Regular before and after photos of their work posted to social media or their website shows that they have frequent clients and therefore have regular practice in applying eyelash extensions which can be a fiddly job at times even for experienced lash artists. Their photos are not stock photos of other people’s work and show close-ups of the work quality at the lash roots as well as from the front view or final look.

5. Research and read their online reviews
This will give you an idea of other people’s experiences and help you make a decision on whether you feel that lash artist would be a good fit for you.

6. The salon space is clean, organised and professional.
The atmosphere should feel relaxing and hygienic. Tools are sterilised and linens switched between clients. The work area is tidy and sterile and the lash artist practices good hygiene by sanitising and washing their hands before starting your treatment.

7. Appropriate for your budget

If you’re looking to do russian volume or mega volume lash extensions, it’s worth going to a more experienced lash artist who may be priced higher as these sets require more advanced techniques and the lash artist will likely have at least a year’s experience before being able to do these. If you’re willing to have some patience there are great lash artists out there who are starting out in their career charging a lower rate and who do beautiful work, but might take longer to complete a set. For example a lash artist with several years experience may take 1.5hrs to complete a classic full set and a newer lash artist can take up to 3hrs.

Higher prices reflect the level of training, certification, experience and expertise level accumulated by a lash artist, so this will likely affect the lash artist’s skill in giving style recommendations and in the variety of lash styles they can achieve for you.