Hybrid lashes involve a combination of classic individual lash extensions and volume lash fans to achieve a textured, fuller lash look. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Consultation and Preparation:
- Client Consultation: Discuss the client's desired lash look, length, curl, and thickness preferences. Assess their natural lash health and determine the appropriate lash weights to use.
- Sanitize and Prepare: Thoroughly cleanse the client's lashes with a lash-specific cleanser to remove any makeup, oils, or debris. Rinse and dry completely.
- Prime Lashes: Apply a lash primer to enhance adhesion and extend the life of the lash extensions.
2. Application Technique:
- Ratio: The standard ratio is roughly 50% classic lashes and 50% volume fans. However, this can be adjusted based on the client's preferences and natural lash density. Some may prefer a more subtle hybrid (leaning closer to classic) or a bolder hybrid (leaning closer to volume).
- Placement: The key to a good hybrid set is strategic placement.
- Alternate placing classic lashes and volume fans along the lash line.
- Place classic lashes between volume fans to create texture and dimension. This prevents the lash line from looking too uniform or blocky.
- Volume Fan Size: Use lighter volume fans (typically 3D-6D) to add fullness without overwhelming the natural lashes. Thicker fans may create a more dramatic volume set instead of a hybrid look.
- Isolation: Isolate each individual natural lash before applying either a classic extension or a volume fan. Proper isolation is crucial to prevent stickies and ensure healthy lash growth.
- Adhesive: Use a high-quality lash adhesive that is appropriate for both classic and volume application. Ensure you are using the correct amount of adhesive for each application technique (more for classic, less for volume).
- Direction: Pay close attention to the direction of each lash extension to create a natural and flattering shape.
3. Application Steps (Detailed):
- Map Out Your Design: Mentally (or physically, with a marker) plan the placement of your classic lashes and volume fans. This will help ensure a balanced and aesthetically pleasing result.
- Apply Classic Lashes: Isolate a natural lash and apply a single classic lash extension to it. Ensure proper attachment with the base of the extension bonded securely to the natural lash without touching the skin.
- Apply Volume Fans: Create or use pre-made volume fans (3D-6D). Dip the base of the fan into the adhesive and carefully apply it to an isolated natural lash. Ensure the fan is open and symmetrical.
- Alternate & Repeat: Continue alternating between classic lashes and volume fans, following your planned design and adjusting as needed to achieve the desired fullness and texture.
- Check for Stickies: After applying a section of lashes, carefully check for any "stickies" (lashes that are stuck together). Use isolation tweezers to separate any lashes that are attached to each other.
4. Finishing Touches:
- Curing: Use a nano mister or lash bonder to cure the adhesive and speed up the drying process. This helps to reduce irritation and improve retention.
- Final Check: Thoroughly inspect the lash line to ensure there are no stickies, gaps, or misplaced lashes.
- Brushing: Gently brush the lashes with a clean mascara wand to fluff them and separate the extensions.
- Client Aftercare: Provide the client with aftercare instructions to ensure the longevity of their lash extensions.
Example:
Imagine a client with moderately dense natural lashes who desires a slightly fuller look than classic lashes alone can provide. You might choose to apply 0.15mm C curl classic lashes in lengths 8-12mm, interspersed with 4D volume fans in the same curl and lengths. The classic lashes provide definition, while the volume fans add subtle fullness and dimension.
Key Considerations:
- Natural Lash Health: Always prioritize the health of the client's natural lashes. Don't overload them with too much weight or length.
- Adhesive Quality: Use a high-quality lash adhesive to ensure proper bonding and retention.
- Proper Isolation: Proper isolation is essential to prevent damage to the natural lashes.
By following these steps, you can create beautiful, textured hybrid lashes that will enhance your client's natural beauty.
