Everything You Need to Know About Hybrid Lashes: A Comprehensive Guide
As the lash industry only continues to grow and evolve, staying updated with the latest trends and techniques is paramount for any Lash Technician. One of the most sought-after eyelash extensions styles in recent times is Hybrid lash extensions, and rightly so! Our helpful guide aims to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of Hybrid lashes, ensuring you can offer this service with confidence and expertise. So, without further ado, let's delve into the world of Hybrid lash extensions!
What Are Hybrid Lashes?
Hybrid lash extensions represent the perfect marriage between two distinct lash techniques: Classic eyelash extensions and Volume lash extensions. The outcome is a versatile look that seamlessly merges the understated elegance of Classic lashes with the boldness and drama synonymous with Volume lashes. They are truly the best of both worlds and are perfect for a client who is stuck between the choice of Classic and Volume lashes.
Classic eyelash extensions involve the application of individual lashes, one by one, to each natural lash. This meticulous process offers a natural yet intensified look, giving a subtle enhancement to the eyes. On the other hand, Volume lash extensions involve applying multiple lightweight lashes to a single natural lash, resulting in a fuller and more dramatic appearance. By fusing these two techniques, Hybrid eyelash extensions deliver a look that's both full and fluffy, making it an ideal choice for those who crave drama but not the overpowering effect of Mega Volume lashes.
How to Create Hybrid Eyelash Extensions
Crafting the perfect set of Hybrid lashes is an art that demands precision, technique, and a touch of creativity. Starting with preparation, it's essential to ensure your client's lashes are impeccably clean and devoid of any makeup, so pretreatment is a must! Using a solid pretreatment routine will effectively prepare the natural lashes for the extension application, ensuring better adhesion and overall retention. Trust us, even performing the bare minimum pretreatment step of a foaming lash shampoo will make a HUGE difference.
When your client chooses Hybrid lash extensions, or if you determine it's the ideal style for their natural lashes, anticipate a lengthier salon session than you would a Classic set. A full set of Hybrid lash extensions typically requires about two and a half hours, given the increased precision and artistry compared to other methods.
Once prepped and squeaky clean, begin by isolating each natural lash and applying the individual Classic lash extensions. This creates a base and sets the stage for the Hybrid look. As you progress, intersperse Volume lash fans between the Classic lashes - this technique introduces the desired fullness and drama to the look. Typically, two fans are set on two separate lashes, with a single lash extension placed on the isolated lashes on either side. This technique is consistently applied until you’ve got a complete set of Hybrid lashes!
We know creating the perfect lash fans can be tricky for a beginner, but with the right tools and lots of practice, you will begin to create symmetrical fans that will offer fluffy and full results. Although we suggest perfecting your fanning technique first, if you’re still not at this stage yet but are dying to try out Hybrid lashes, you can try using Premade lash fans! After all of the lash extensions are perfectly placed, applying a lash sealant like Superbonder is a must! This not only ensures maximum retention, but it immediately cures the adhesive without causing shock polymerization! It also captures the fumes from the glue, minimizing the risk of discomfort while also decreasing the likelihood of allergic reactions post-treatment. Moreover, using a lash sealant will enhance the adhesive's flexibility, ensuring the bonds remain flexible and less prone to breaking, leading to improved retention. Plus, now that the bonds are securely sealed, the lashes can get wet straight away!
When Should You Offer Hybrid Lashes?
Hybrid lashes are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for a wide range of clients. As we’ve previously mentioned, they're excellent for clients who desire a balance between a natural and dramatic look. Additionally, for those with sparse lashes, the volume aspect of Hybrid lashes can effectively fill in gaps that Classic extensions may not cover. Hybrid lashes also serve as a fantastic transitional style for clients who are considering moving from Classic to Volume lashes or vice versa.
What Are The Best Products to Use for Hybrid Lashes?
Achieving impeccable Hybrid lashes is contingent on the quality of the products used. A high-quality lash glue is non-negotiable, and having a diverse range of lash lengths and curls at your disposal allows for a tailored approach, ensuring each client gets a look that complements their eye shape and meets their preferences.
Generally speaking, for a regular Hybrid lash set with a happy medium of Classic and Volume, we would recommend 0.07 lashes, as you can create lash fans of up to 5D. Whether you choose Chelsea lashes for a classic matte finish or Mayfair lashes for a more bold and shiny finish to your fans, it simply comes down to personal preference. To accompany your 0.07 Volume lashes, 0.15 lashes are their perfect match. 0.15 lashes alone provide a gorgeous mascara effect, but when paired with lash fans in a Hybrid lash extensions set, they offer a stunning finish with 3D fans in 0.07. If you decide to add a little more drama and want to add larger fans such as 5D, you could even consider using 0.20 flat lashes for an even bolder finish.
London Lash Top Tip: If you’re creating wispy Hybrid lashes, use Classic lashes that are 2mm longer than your fans, or you can create intermittent spikes with longer lash fans and a touch of lash primer.
Tips and Tricks for Long-Lasting Hybrid Lashes
Ensuring the longevity of Hybrid lashes goes beyond the application process - aftercare plays a pivotal role. It's imperative to educate your clients about the importance of avoiding hot showers and steam for the first 24-48 hours post-application. Oil-based products are also a no-go as they can compromise the adhesive, and regular fills, ideally every 2-3 weeks, are recommended to maintain the lushness of their Hybrid lashes. Gentle cleansing with a lash-friendly foam cleanser can prevent build-up and potential infections. You should also advise your clients to be cautious against exposing their lashes to direct sources of heat, such as ovens or hairdryers, as this can cause the lashes to lose their curl. If you would like to know more about our top aftercare tips for amazing lash retention, then you should check out our aftercare blog posts and consider supplying aftercare leaflets for your clients to take away!
Hybrid lash extensions, with their unique blend of subtlety and a dash of drama, offer a fresh and exciting look for both Lash Technicians and clients. As a technician, mastering this technique can diversify your service offerings and help you cater to a broader clientele. With the right products, professional techniques, and aftercare advice, you can ensure every client walks out of your salon with a set of stunning, long-lasting Hybrid lashes.
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