Lash extensions are one of the most popular beauty treatments of all time. Over the past eight years, they have become more of a necessity treatment, becoming a must have for a lot of women. But why lash extensions?
Lash extensions not only enhance the eyes and facial features, but also make corrections. For example, if one eye droops slightly more than the other, lash extensions can offer the illusion of lifting the eye (if the styling is done correctly of course!) Most women are keen to get eyelash extensions because it gives them a boost of confidence and saves a lot of time getting ready. It also saves the hassle of taking an abundance of mascara off after a long day, which makes them extremely convenient for busy workdays, mums or gym lovers. Who wouldn’t want to have more time in their day whilst looking fabulous 24/7 – you wake up feeling like you’re halfway ready!
So, we know lash extensions are a must have treatment, but there are so many types and styles floating around, how do you know what type to book in the salon or who to get them done by? Here’s my guide to the different types of lashes and how to find someone who is qualified and insured to apply them.
Classic Lash Extensions (also known as ‘Semi-permanent Lashes’):
This is one of the original types of extensions that were created as a semi-permanent lash. I remember, when I started training in classic lashes over a decade ago, they weren’t popular at all. Now it seems everyone wants them! Classic Lash Extensions means one extension placed onto one natural lash. This involves lying down with your eyes closed for 1-2 hours depending on where you get them done. Classic Lashes are perfect if you want a natural look and will need to be in-filled every 2 weeks.
Russian Volume Lashes (also known as ‘Volume Lashes’):
This lash treatment gives a fuller look. The lash artist will apply handmade fans, which are made during the appointment to create the look you desire. Both a natural and fuller look can be achieved depending on what style you’d like. There can be 2-6 lashes applied onto one natural lash which are extremely fine, weighing the same as one Classic Lash. This treatment is a great option if you want a fuller everyday lash look or have sparse lashes and want to create the illusion of more. This treatment takes 2-3 hours and you’ll need in-fills every 2-3 weeks.
Super Volume Lashes (also known as ‘Mega Volume Lashes’):
This treatment is for those who want that daily strip lash look. 6-14 lashes are applied to one natural lash, so you can imagine how full they look once applied. These are a great treatment for an occasion such as a wedding, prom or holiday. In my salon, Russian Lashes are the most popular treatment, but clients will have Super Volume Lashes if they’re going somewhere special and want them even thicker. A full set normally takes around 2-3 hours and in-fills are due every 2-3 weeks.
Hybrid Lashes (also known as ‘Mixed Set’):
This is a very up and coming treatment. If you’re unsure as to which lash to go for, this treatment is the one! The treatment consists of 50% Classic Lashes and 50% Russian Volume to give a hybrid look. If you like the Kim Kardashian, wispy style then this is the treatment for you.
Premade Volume Lashes:
This treatment creates the Russian look using lashes that are pre-fanned. We use these to speed up the treatment time, as a lot of people are unable to take 2 hours out of their day. Premade lashes will take roughly the same amount of time as the Classic Volume, 1-2 hours depending on where you go. The treatment usually costs around the same price as Russian Volume Lashes as the product costs are very high, but it’s a great option for those who want to save time in salon.
How do I find a good lash artist?
Finding a lash artist who can ensure no damage is inflicted to your natural lashes is very important, so you need to do your research. Social media is a great way of looking at someone’s work and you should also go on their website to look at their reviews. You can also contact them to ask where they trained and what products they use to ensure they’re using a reputable brand. You can always head to our KG Professional Lash Finder to see who is trained by us and who uses our products.
Katie Godfrey is the powerhouse behind the KG brand, single-handedly building her empire from a single salon bought aged 19 as a school leaver with no qualifications, to a chain of salons, a UK-wide beauty training academy, an eyelash product range and a salon coaching business.
Find out more about KG Professional