Classic Eyelash Extensions (2023): All You Need to Know (2024)

What Are Classic Eyelash Extensions?

Classic lash extensions are a type of eyelash extensions applied on a 1:1 ratio, which means one extension is attached to one natural lash. One extension is dipped into the adhesive and applied to one of your natural lashes, unlike strip cluster lashes, which are applied to the skin of the eyelid. Classic lash extensions are also known as individual lashes or 1 to 1 lash extensions.

Classic eyelashes are the most traditional and popular style because the results look natural, they are not heavy to the eye and, if done properly, they won’t damage your natural lashes. They come in different materials as well as length, thickness, and curl type.

Image source: Instagram @lashbysarah

Classic Eyelash Extensions Materials

Classic lash extensions can be made of natural or synthetic materials, usually mink, sable, and fox fur, as well as silk and faux mink.

Natural lash extensions

• Mink lashes – made of mink fur taken from the tail of the Syberian or Chinese minks, they are lightweight and look really natural. The disadvantage is that they are pricey. There are also ethical concerns since they are made of real animal fur.
• Sable lashes – the lightest, but also the most expensive classic lash extensions. Suitable for people who have very light lashes. Look even more natural than mink lashes.
• Fox fur lashes – obtained from brushing the tail of a fox, look elegant and fluffy. More expensive than mink lashes.

Man-made lash extensions

• Silk lashes – made from artificial silk, they don’t look as wispy as mink lashes, but a bit glossier. They are also not as light as mink lashes but are still comfortable to wear and look great for everyday use.
• Faux mink lashes – a great alternative for those who don’t want natural mink lashes. These are created to imitate the effect of mink extensions but are not as light as mink classic eyelashes. The advantages are that they are cheaper, can be styled, and come in different lengths, thicknesses, and curls. Faux mink lashes are the most popular since they are easy to adapt to every client’s eye shape and preferences.

Classic Lashes Length, Thickness, Shape & Curl Type

Classic Lashes Length

Classic eyelash extensions can be from 5mm to 15mm long. Shorter lashes are used for inner corners and longer ones for the rest of the set.

Choosing the right length of classic lashes is very important. They shouldn’t be too heavy, otherwise, they will be uncomfortable to wear and their weight can ruin your natural lashes. The most popular length of the classic lash extensions is between 9mm and 13mm. The rule is that the extensions shouldn’t be longer than 20% of the length of your natural lashes.

Extra-long lashes (longer than 14mm) are used for creating hybrid lashes (more about them in the text below).

Classic lash extensions length:

• Short – 5mm to 8mm – for inner corners of the eye
• Medium – 9mm to 12mm – most commonly used
• Long – 13mm to 14mm – for those who want a more dramatic effect and have long natural lashes

Extra-long – 15mm and above – usually combined for hybrid lashes.

Classic Lashes Thickness

Classic eyelash extensions can be of different thicknesses and go from 0.03mm to 0.25mm.

For classic lashes, the most common thickness of extensions is 0.15mm, to create a natural look. For a more glamorous and bold look, choose 0.20mm lash extensions. Everything thicker than 0.15mm is recommended only to people who have really strong and healthy natural lashes.

Classic Lashes Shape

Apart from the conventional extensions with a round base, there are also flat lashes. They can be used to create classic eyelash extensions sets too. Flat classic eyelash extensions are becoming very popular because they adhere better to natural lashes. This is due to the oval base, which is wider than the base of round shape lashes.

Flat lashes are also called cashmere lashes or ellipse lashes. They are lighter than conventional lashes, stay longer, and need less glue. Flat lashes allow you to create darker, more dramatic classic eyelash extensions looks.

Classic Lashes Curl Type

There are also different classic eyelash extensions curl types, defined by a letter representing the look of the curl.

• • I curl lashes – straight lash extensions, typically used for male clients;
  • J curl lashes – a little bit curled, for those who want the uplifted look for their straight lashes;
  • B curl lashes – look natural, give an eyelash curler effect; typically used for the inner corners;
  • C curl lashes – the most popular, uplifted lashes that open the eyes;
  • D curl lashes – dramatic, glamorous;
  • L curl lashes – perfect for people with hooded eyes; harsh upward curl;

Image source: Instagram @allisonlash_martin

How Long Does the Classic Lash Extensions Treatment Last?

The treatment usually lasts 1.5 to 2 hours. The lash tech will prepare your eyes for the treatment, and then dip each of the classic eyelash extensions in the lash adhesive individually and apply it to your natural lashes.

How Do I Prepare For the Classic Lash Extension Treatment?

It is important to come with clean lashes and the area around them, so don’t wear makeup to the appointment and avoid waterproof mascara before the treatment to make sure your lashes are completely makeup-free. Also, avoid oil-based products around your eyes.

Take off your contact lenses before the appointment. It is also advisable to shower before the treatment since you shouldn’t shower afterward because this can affect the lash glue. It will take some time for it to dry completely.

What Does the Classic Lash Extension Aftercare Look Like?

Be careful in the first 24h after the treatment, because the glue is still fresh:

• Don’t get your lashes wet in the first 24h. Avoid long showers, steam, swimming, sweating, working out.
• Try to sleep on your back.
• Don’t use the lash curler.
• Don’t use oil-based products on your eyes.

Image source: Instagram @browbound_

How Long Do Classic Lash Extensions Last?

Classic eyelash extensions are glued to your natural lashes so they follow the lash growth cycle. People tend to lose around 20% of their lashes per week. Classic lash extensions last 6-8 weeks, without infills.

If you want to prolong the duration of classic lash extensions, it is advisable to have regular fill-ins every 4 weeks. More extensions will be added where your natural lashes fell off. If you wait for all of them to come off naturally, you will need to repeat the full treatment.

How Do I Know When It’s Time for Classic Lashes Infill?

Lash techs usually require you to have at least 40% of lash extensions remaining in order to have an infill. The frequency of infills is individual because some people have a shorter lash growth cycle. So, expect to book a fill-in appointment 3-4 weeks after the initial treatment.

How Much Do Classic Eyelash Extensions Cost?

The average price for a classic lash extension set is between $80 and $200. The price depends on various factors such as the choice of the extensions (material, brand, etc), your location, and the popularity of the lash tech.

How Can I Remove Classic Lash Extensions?

You can wait until they fall out with your natural lashes.
If you want to remove them sooner for whatever reason, it is best to visit your lash tech. All of them should have a removal service and they usually charge $20-$30 to remove classic eyelash extensions.

If you try to remove your classic lash extensions on your own, you risk damaging your natural lashes, so it is better to leave it to the professional.

Image source: Instagram @lashbysarah

Classic Lash Extensions vs Other Styles

What Is the Difference Between Classic Lashes and Volume Lashes?

As said before, with classic lashes 1 extension is applied to 1 natural lash. With volume lashes, multiple thinner extensions are attached to 1 natural lash. They usually go from 2D to 6D, depending on how many lashes are attached to one natural lash. They are also called Russian volume lash extensions.

Classic lashes add length to your natural lashes, but volume lashes add thickness and depth. They create a soft, feathery effect, and a little bit of a dramatic look. Russian volume lashes are more suitable for people who wear make-up every day since classic lashes look more natural and are more adequate for everyday use.

What is the Difference Between Classic Lashes and Hybrid Lashes?

Hybrid lashes mix classic lash extension and volume lash extensions. This means that individual lashes are added in some spots, while in others, fans of 2 or more volume lashes are applied. Lash artists usually use longer classic eyelash extensions to create hybrid lashes.

By combining the two techniques, with hybrid lashes you get length and fullness. Perfect for people who want a fuller lash line and a more texturized lash look.

Which are the Best: Classic, Volume, or Hybrid Lash Extensions?

Classic lashes are perfect for people who already have good lashes but want to add more length while keeping the natural look.

Volume lashes are for those who like a more dramatic look, while the hybrid lashes add both length and thickness, for those with thinner natural lashes or for those wanting a denser classic lashes set.

Image source: Instagram @lashboxlyd

How Do I Maintain Classic Lash Extensions?

It is enough to book an infill every 3-4 weeks. Also, if you want them to last as long as possible, protect them when you shower.

Clean your classic lashes regularly, every day or every second day. Wash them gently with micellar water or some special lash cleanser and a wide eyeshadow brush, then rinse with water. Don’t rub them and dry them afterwards.

Try not to sleep on your stomach if you want perfect classic lashes for a longer period.

Can I Wear Mascara on Classic Eyelash Extension?

Yes, you can, if you really want to. But there are downsides to that.

Firstly, mascara will add extra weight to your classic lash extensions. Also, it can affect the lash glue. Therefore, if you want to use mascara, start from the middle of the lashes. Never apply it to the roots of the lashes. Be careful and add no more than one coat.

If you really want to add extra volume with mascara, don’t use waterproof or oil-based mascara, because it can affect the lash glue and break the bond.

Image source: Instagram @queenlashes_aarhus

Do Classic Lashes Ruin Your Natural Lashes?

If done properly and if you follow the aftercare and maintenance tips, classic eyelash extensions will not damage your natural lashes.

Classic Eyelash Extensions – Main Takeaways

Classic eyelash extensions are a great way to add length to your natural lashes and have awesome lashes every day. They are a low-maintenance way to improve your look and boost your self-esteem. That is why they are so beloved.