A Comprehensive Guide to Lash Extension Styling: Types, Shapes, and Effects

The world of beauty knows that a 'one size fits all' approach doesn't apply, especially when it comes to styling eyelash extensions. Your choice of lash style is a personal reflection of your unique beauty. This article aims to unravel the various lash extension sets (classic, hybrid, volume, mega volume) and explore the diverse styles available (natural-eye, doll-eye, kitten/squirrel-eye, etc.), ensuring you're well-informed when choosing the perfect lash look.

Understanding Lash Extension Types

Classic

Classic lash extensions, the pioneer of lash sets, follow a 1:1 pattern – one extension per natural lash. This style adds length and curl without excessive thickness, appealing to those seeking a natural yet enhanced look.

Hybrid

Just like the name suggests, this lash set is a mix of classic lash extensions and volume fans. Generally, hybrid sets are a 50/50 mix of both classic and volume lashes, but the ratio can be altered depending on the look that is aimed to be achieved. Being the most versatile out of all sets, the hybrid lash set can be altered in thickness in accordance to personal preference as well as the number of natural lashes an individual may possess. Please note that as this is such adjustable style, every lash technician may have a different method to their version of a hybrid lash set.

Volume

The Volume lash set is one of the most common and popular lash style types that are available. These are created by placing volume fans onto each individual natural lash, giving it its’ renowned voluminous look. Similar to the hybrid set, the volume set can also be altered by switching up how many individual lashes are in a single volume fan; this is why sometimes they are classified with 3D, 4D, 5D, etc.

Mega Volume

When the goal is to have density, the mega volume set is the set to be chosen. The fullest of all the lash extension types, this set creates the ultimate dense and fluffy look. This set is generally crafted with extra-fine lashes to allow for damage-free natural lashes. This set is also an option for individuals with a sparser lash line by creating a ‘fuller looking’ set that cannot be achieved with other lash sets.

Exploring Lash Extension Styles

Natural-Eye

The most versatile style for those who don’t know what style to choose from as it is placed in accordance to your natural eye-shape, making it suitable for anyone regardless of face or eye shape.

Doll/Open Eye

Ideal for those seeking to enlarge and ‘open’ the eyes, the doll or open eye style imparts a rounder effect, enhancing the eye's appearance.

Kitten/Squirrel Eye 

This style is also one of the more universal looks that suits all eye shapes as it is very similar to the natural – eye. This style opens and slightly elongates the eye whilst giving it a mini cat-eye look.

Cat Eye

Crafted to elongate the eyes, the cat-eye style achieves a sultry, captivating effect.

Understanding Lash Extension Effects

Uniform Effect 

Creating a consistent line across the lash set, the uniform effect ensures a seamless finish.

Wispy Effect 

Achieve a staggered, dimensional look with the wispy effect, using varied lash lengths for a more ‘fluffy’ top line.

Wet Effect

For those seeking a mascara-like appearance, the wet effect replicates the allure of mascara with extensions.

As there are a multitude of style/effect combinations, new trending lash maps are constantly created and elevated by industry professionals. Some notable combinations include:  a segregated wispy & wet look can create the highly sought after ‘Anime Lash Set’ a.k.a. Manga Lashes or Manhua lashes; Grouping ‘fluffy’ wisps evenly across the lash line can create a ‘Striplash Set’.

Lash extension styling is an art that harmonizes with an individual preferences and facial features. Keep in mind that the same lash set can manifest differently on various individuals due to unique face and eye shapes. Consult a professional lash technician to align your preferences with the perfect lash style that speaks to your beauty aspirations and unlock the potential of your gaze with lash extensions tailored to you.