A Guide to Hybrid Eyelash Extensions

In recent years, hybrid lashes have rapidly become one of the most sought after lash looks. Lash technicians across the globe have been tasked with creating some of the most beautiful, wispy lashes imaginable, as made popular by the likes of the Kardashians. It’s easy to see why - hybrid lashes are the perfect blend of natural and fuller looking lash sets; they use a combination of both the classic and volume lash techniques to create the dreamiest, fluffiest result. 

We take a look at everything you need to know about hybrid eyelash extensions. 

What are Hybrid lashes?

Hybrid lashes are a game changer for those who want something a little bolder than classic lashes, but a little less dramatic than volume lashes. Combining the two techniques, hybrid lashes sit somewhere in the middle - they’re not as subtle as classic lash extensions or as dense as volume lashes, making hybrid lashes ideal for those clients who want the best of both worlds. They’ve also given lash wearers more opportunity to personalise their lash look.

hybrid lashes, hybrid eyelash extensions

Hybrid lashes vs Classic

Hybrid lash extensions create a broken lash line, which appears textured and spiky looking, but soft at the same time. Clients frequently debate whether to go for classic, hybrid or volume lashes - the ever-expanding variety of lash looks can certainly give rise to many questions. 

To help you to offer some impartial advice to your clients, you can help them by weighing up the pros and cons of each different lash look and can advise them based on which is more suited to the look they most want to achieve. It’s also important to note that your client’s natural lashes may be better suited to a particular style of extensions - for example, hybrid lashes are perfect for people who have sections of their lash line which are sparser than others, or who have naturally thin eyelashes overall. 

Fans of extensions can be added to places where the natural lashes are less thick and single extensions can be used in denser parts of the natural lash line, or to create length where the eyelashes are shorter.

On the other hand, classic eyelash extensions are ideal for those who want a subtle, natural lash enhancement, and work well for those who are more focused on achieving length than volume. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to the golden question: Which are best, hybrid lashes or classic lashes? It simply depends on the condition of your client’s natural lashes and the look they most want to achieve. 

If your client has tried classic lash extensions in the past and isn’t sure whether they want to give volume lashes a go just yet, hybrid lashes make the perfect middleground. They’ll give you the chance to get a feel for what more voluminous lashes will look like on you. 

To put it succinctly: hybrid lashes are best for those who want a little more oomph and who may have naturally spare lash line, whereas classic lashes are perfect for those who want a natural, mascara effect and are less fussed on volume. 

hybrid lashes vs classic

How to do Hybrid lashes

Hybrid lash extensions can take around two and a half hours if you are applying a full set, due to the fact that more precision and creative skill is needed compared to other styles. 

As a lash artist, you should isolate each eyelash before attaching extensions. For the best effect, use handmade fans before attaching these to an isolated natural lash. Usually, two fans will be placed on two separate lashes, and a single lash extension will be applied onto isolated lashes either side. This method is then repeated over and over until a full set of hybrid lashes have been applied.

How to take care of Hybrid lashes

Just like with Classic and Volume lash extensions, your clients should be advised on how to take care of their hybrid lashes. By providing your clients with some super simple tips, you can encourage them to incorporate an aftercare routine which will improve lash retention and, as a result, should see their return. Some top tips for taking care of hybrid lashes include:

  • Booking an infill appointment - not only will this work out cheaper in the long run than sporadically booking a full set of lashes, it keeps lashes looking beautifully maintained and prevents the dreaded few-lashes-hanging-on-by-a-thread stage
  • For the first 48 hours after the treatment, clients should not get their hybrid eyelash extensions wet as the adhesive needs time to settle
  • After this initial period, clients ought to clean their lashes every day with a lash cleanser, pat dry gently and brush through with an eyelash brush
  • It’s important to point out that clients should only apply slight pressure to their lashes when cleansing them and should avoid rubbing or picking them to prevent unnecessary breakage and premature shedding

We hope this answers some of your frequently asked questions on hybrid eyelash extensions and helps to keep your clients happy!