Bold, fluffy eyelashes are IN, and you just might be wondering how to get yourself a pair. No doubt you've heard the hype of eyelash extensions but have you been introduced to the beauty of hybrid lashes?
Read on to get the full scoop on hybrid lashes and find out if they are right for you!
What Are Eyelash Extensions?
Before we get into the hybrid technique, let's break down eyelash extensions. Lash extensions are semi-permanent fibers applied directly to your natural lash to add length or volume. They can be made out of faux mink, silk, or light synthetic fibers.
Using a semi-permanent, eye-safe glue, a trained technician will apply the lash extensions individually to each natural lash, unlike false lashes, which can be applied to the skin of the eyelid.
Traditionally, there are two types of lash extensions: classic and volume.
Classic vs. Volume
Classic
Classic eyelash extensions consist of a single extension lash attached to one natural lash. The intended result is a lash line with greater length. Lash extensions range from 5mm to as much as 18mm and should be chosen based on the length of the wearer's natural lash and what look they’re going for.
Generally, it's advised to go no more than 3-5mm longer than your natural lash. Choosing the wrong length of lash could damage the hair follicles and prevent healthy natural lash growth in the future.
Volume
Volume lash extensions became super popular in the early 2010s when wearers wanted to add not just length but also volume.
Volume lashes are done by applying multiple lashes (ranging from two to even 20 lashes in what's called a "fan") onto a single natural lash. These "fans" must be made with lighter and thinner lashes than classic single extension lashes to avoid damaging the natural lash.
Classic lashes are typically more natural in appearance, and volume lashes are more dramatic. But a new competitor has entered the ring and is quickly stealing the spotlight — hybrid lashes.
What Are Hybrid Lashes?
In recent years, the hybrid style has been steadily growing in popularity by offering the best of both worlds: volume and length! All without looking too unnatural or overwhelming.
The hybrid method blends classic single lash extensions for length with a select placement of volume lashes for density. This creates the kind of celebrity-level, wispy lashes you've only had in your dreams!
Hybrid lashes are perfect for anyone looking for something bolder than subtle classic lashes and less dramatic than volume lashes. Another one of the biggest draws of hybrid lashes is the level of customization in the design, giving each client a more personal lash look tailored to them and their style.
Why Choose Hybrid Lash Extensions?
Hybrid lashes offer a wispy, fluffy look by intermixing volume lash extensions with single lengthening lash extensions. If you don't want super dramatic lashes in terms of volume, hybrid lashes tend not to use fans with more than 6-8 extension lashes. This makes them the perfect style for lash wearers who wants a combination of density and length.
Beyond the style itself, hybrid lashes are also helpful for those with thin or uneven natural lash lines. Your lash technician can assess your natural lashes and selectively use higher density fans to fill in sparser areas of your lash line and help even out the line.
Lash technicians are incredibly knowledgable and can come up with a creative combination of lash extensions that achieves your desired look and eliminates any concerns. (This is one reason that it is critical that you find a reputable, licensed lash technician that you can trust.)
How Long Does a Hybrid Treatment Take?
Let's put it this way. We hope you like podcasts. Lash extensions of any style require a fair amount of time on the clinic table while your lash technician works their magic. A typical session for receiving a full set of extensions can take one to two hours.
Hybrid lash extension appointments specifically can stretch to even two and a half hours due to the amount of creativity and customization that goes into the design of the lashes. But we say the longer, the better! It is much safer to have a technician who takes their time to put care and effort into your extensions than one who rushes through the appointment just to get it done faster.
If we haven't emphasized it enough, having a technician you trust is key, especially when they will be working around something as important as your eyes. Any good lash technician will always put your safety and lash health first.
How Long Will Hybrid Lashes Last?
Similar to classic and volume lash extensions, hybrid lash extensions will shed at the natural rate of your eyelash growth cycle which is about six weeks. Most technicians will encourage you to come in every two to three weeks for an fill to replace any area that appears sparse from where your lashes have naturally shed over time. (Yes, extensions are definitely a maintenance-heavy commitment.)
Are There Any Risks to Getting Hybrid Lashes?
With any type of lash extension, there are risks involved. Most reactions or complications due to eyelash extensions stem from an allergic reaction to the adhesive or glue used to secure the extension to the natural lash.
Following any lash extension appointment, be vigilant for any symptoms including:
- skin irritation of the eyelid
- rash
- swelling
- stinging or burning sensation
- itching
- pain
- red or bloodshot eyes
If you notice any reactions, call your technician immediately and consult a doctor to avoid more severe risks like cornea or eyelid infections and loss of eyelashes (temporary or permanently).
Fortunately, you can largely avoid these risks by following these general tips:
- Only allow a licensed technician to attach your lash extensions in a clean, sanitary environment with sterilized equipment.
- Clearly communicate any allergies to your technician prior to your extension appointment.
- Ask for a list of ingredients in the eyelash adhesive (And avoid any adhesives with formaldehyde which can cause reactions and irritation).
- If you have sensitive skin or have allergies to common makeup products, request that your technician do a patch test on your skin a few days prior to your appointment.
- Follow your technician's prep and aftercare instructions carefully.
What if I Am Hesitant About Hybrid Extensions?
If you don't want to dive head first into the world of lash extensions, don't sweat it! Doe Lashes will always have your back with comfortable, feather-light lashes that can be applied right at home!
Check out our Starry Night and Soft Bloom lashes, which use the same combination technique to give you that dreamy, wispy lash coverage without distracting from your own natural beauty.
Sources:
Eyelash Follicle Features and Anomalies | PubMed Central National Library of Medicine
Eyelash Extensions: What Are the Pros and Cons | Healthline
How To Recognize an Allergic Reaction to Eyelash Extensions | Medical News Today