Eyelash extensions are one of the hottest beauty trends of the decade!

With easy, professional application, they can instantly transform your eyes from average to mesmerizing. Eyelash extensions come in a variety of types and the type of lash to choose largely depends on your personal preference as well as what type of look you’re going for.

Three of the most common types of eyelash extensions that we offer at LashPilot are:

Classic Lashes
Russian Volume Lashes, and
Russian Mega Volume Lashes

Difference between Russian Volume Lashes vs Mega Volume Lashes and Mink Lashes

The main difference is that Russian Volume Lashes and Mega Volume Lashes are lighter and more versatile than traditional mink eyelashes. They envelope your natural lash with lightweight fans and can be customized in a variety of ways. Russian Volume Lashes and Mega Volume Lashes are also made with a higher-grade of lightweight material than mink lashes, creating a look that is based in quality and can be tailored to a variety of lash types.

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Russian Volume Lashes in Santa Monica, Los Angeles and
Russian Volume Lashes in Newport Beach, Los Angeles

A Classic Look with Classic Lashes

The biggest difference between the types is the number of lashes applied to the natural lash. While some people think that the thickness of a lash extension is what dictates how thick lashes look, it is actually the number of extensions used on or around a single lash extension. The number of extensions used that can fit into one lash extension determines the density and fullness of the look.

With classic lashes, anywhere from one to three lash extensions are usually applied to the natural lash. This means that each lash extension has one to three extensions. The diameter of each lash extension is usually between 0.07 to 0.09 mm. This gives a natural look that simply elongates and darkens the natural lashes. The length of lash and type of curl will largely depend on the client’s preference.

Classic lashes come in various types of curls — from the subtle I Curl to the lifted L Curl as well as a wide variety in between. Classic lashes can be easily manipulated to fit a variety of eye shapes as well as compensate for small flaws or hide scars or other imperfections on the eyelid since they are “wispier” than volume and Mega Volume lashes and do not rely on a perfectly straight line as a base.

Classic lashes work well with a variety of looks and depending on makeup and outfit selection, can work with a natural outdoorsy muted no-makeup look just as well as they can work with some bright lipstick and a beautiful summer dress. Classic lashes also do not draw as much attention to the eyes as the other types do, making them perfect for clients who like to experiment with a variety of makeup and do not want the focus to always be on the eyes.

Russian Mega Volume Lashes

A few years ago, the Mega Volume Lash, which had originated in Kazakhstan and been popularized throughout Russia and west Asia, hit the United States. With the Russian Mega Volume lashes technique, more than 10 lash extensions (10D) can be applied to each of a client’s natural lashes. In some cases, even 20 (20D) lash extensions can be applied around a single natural lash. This is because the diameter of each lash extension is about 0.03 mm, which is much thinner than classic and even volume lashes. Russian Mega Volume lashes also lend themselves to the “enveloping” or “wrap” technique.

A skilled technician will use these lightweight lashes to make a handmade “fan.” Handmade fans are created by combining a group of lash extensions and then fanning them around the lash, enveloping it like foil, and creating a secure bond on the natural lash. Traditional lashes are placed on the lash, adding unnecessary weight to the lash. Additionally, less-skilled technicians will use pre-made fans, which also sit on the lash and weigh it down. Our fan technique is not only more lightweight, but surrounds the lash with support.

Additionally, pre-made fans offer little to no flexibility for length or shape customization. Pre-made fans are unable to blend with all types of individual lash textures, lengths, or strengths. Additionally, there is already a significant amount of glue on the pre-made fan, so that means that even more weight is added to the natural lash when the pre-made fan is dipped in adhesive a second time. Pre-made fans also can’t create the “envelope”around the natural lash that our Russian Mega Volume technique can.

These higher-volume “fans” are what is responsible for the fuller “mega” look.

Russian Mega Volume lashes are great for special occasions or for people who are looking to draw attention to the eyes. They are the perfect complement to a little black dress and some sparkly, sky-high heels. Even the hottest designer fashions can’t compete with the Russian Mega Volume lashes. With these lashes, all of the attention can’t help but be on the eyes.

Russian Volume Lashes

Russian volume lashes fall somewhere in between classic and Russian Mega Volume lashes. Fans are usually made up of 2 to 6 lash extensions with each fan applied to a single natural lash. The diameter of each lash extension usually ranges anywhere between 0.05 to 0.07mm.

The one trademark of Russian lashes is that the line appears more uniform than classic or natural lashes. Russian volume and Mega Volume lash applications usually result in a thicker lash line with the shape arching in an even and uniform line, whereas classic and natural lashes are spaced further apart and have a wispier appearance. Russian lashes are known for their symmetry and balance whereas natural and classic lashes are more asymmetrical in nature.

Russian volume eyelash extensions are great for a professional and polished look, yet with the right makeup and outfit, can still turn heads on a night out on the town.The Russian volume look is great for transitioning from a daytime look to a nighttime one.

Plus, the Russian volume lash look has become increasingly popular as more and more Americans are wearing masks for personal health reasons. After all, with a mask, the eyes have no choice but to be on display.

Russian (Mega)volume Lashes vs. Classic Lashes: Which Look is Best for Me?

From a client perspective, how thick, uniform, and symmetrical you’d like your lashes to be is largely a personal preference. Many clients choose to switch up their look depending on life events, seasonal changes, or even changing looks. Many clients choose to go for a more natural look in the summer and a dramatic look in the winter (especially around the holidays). Some clients also change their lash look depending on if they change their hairstyle or if they get another service such as microblading. Even small subtle changes such as bangs, an eyebrow tint, or new makeup can even dramatically change a client’s overall look. Some clients have even found that a new pair of glasses is cause for a new set of lashes!

Some clients also feel that certain lashes are heavier than others and some clients want lashes that will not interfere with their active lifestyles. This is why it is so important to talk with your lash professional about your past experiences, lifestyle, and preferences when it comes to your lashes.

The one thing that all three types have in common is that they are all safe for natural lashes if the extensions are applied correctly. Learning how to evaluate a client’s needs and applying each type of lash extension takes knowledge, skills, and experience. At LashPilot, our staff takes pride in our ability to create a look that speaks volumes!