Classic Lash Extensions

Classic lash extensions are a timeless and elegant choice, ideal for those just starting their lash journey. This guide is your complete go-to, a comprehensive pre-consultation that answers all your questions (and even a few you hadn't thought of). Our goal is to provide you with all the expert information you need to feel confident making a decision and achieve that flawless, natural look you're after.

This article was written by the lash artistry experts at LASHESBYRK, based on years of experience customising lash styles for clients all over Australia.

What are classic lash extensions?

Classic lash extensions refer to the 1:1 application technique, where a single synthetic extension is carefully attached to each natural lash. Unlike volume sets that achieve fullness by applying multiple extensions per lash, the classic method creates a natural, refined look with just the right amount of definition.

Classic lash extensions are ideal for enhancing length and curl, creating a defined yet delicate lash line that adds volume and depth. This polished, elegant look resembles premium mascara that endures all day.

Unlike volume-focused styles, classic extensions accentuate the natural beauty of your lashes. Whether for work or special occasions, your look stays effortlessly refined and sophisticated.

There’s no need to worry about discomfort. Getting classic lash extensions is a relaxing, soothing, and completely pain-free experience from start to finish.

>>> Discover more: Discovering 3 Unique Techniques for Applying Pro Made onto Natural Lashes

A classic eyelash extension is a technique in which one synthetic lash is carefully applied to each natural lash for a subtle, defined look

Benefits of classic lash extensions

Classic lash extensions offer a range of benefits that make them a favourite for enhancing natural beauty. Here are the key advantages of choosing classic lash extensions:

Enhance the eyes and create definition

Classic lash extensions open up your eyes, making them look bigger, brighter, and more defined. They frame your eyes beautifully, highlighting your natural features and drawing attention to your gaze.

Wake up with flawless lashes every day

One of the biggest perks of classic lash extensions is the low-maintenance factor. Say goodbye to the daily struggle of mascara and the worry of smudges or clumps. With classic lash extensions, you can wake up every morning with perfect lashes, saving time and effort in your beauty routine.

Boost your confidence and feel amazing

There’s no denying the confidence boost that comes with stunning lashes. Classic lash extensions instantly enhance your natural beauty, helping you feel glamorous and polished, whether it’s a special occasion or just an everyday look.

Natural, effortless look

For a natural, everyday appearance, classic lash extensions are the ideal choice. Compared to volume or hybrid lashes, classic lashes offer a subtle enhancement that complements your natural lashes without being overbearing. They give you an effortlessly beautiful look that highlights your best features.

Classic lash extensions offer several advantages, making them a popular choice for those looking to enhance their natural beauty

Are classic lash extensions the right choice for you?

While classic lashes offer versatility, achieving a beautiful outcome depends on matching them to your natural lashes and defined style goals.

Ideal candidates for classic lashes

You are a perfect candidate for a classic set if:

• You have a healthy number of natural lashes: Because the method is 1:1, the fullness of your classic set is directly determined by how many natural lashes you have.
• You're seeking a natural enhancement: If your goal is to add length and definition without appearing to wear extensions, this style is ideal for you.
• You're new to the world of eyelash extensions: Classic lashes are the perfect introduction. They allow you to become comfortable with the look, feel, and maintenance before exploring more dramatic styles, such as hybrid or volume.

Who might be better suited to other styles?

If your natural lashes are noticeably sparse, fine, or have gaps, a classic set will look thin, as there are fewer lashes for application. You might opt for eyelash extension kits: a hybrid set (combining classic and volume) for increased fullness, or a light volume set for more density.

A great lash artist will always assess your natural lashes and provide an honest recommendation during your consultation.

A quick self-assessment checklist

Ask yourself these questions to help determine your ideal style:

• Am I aiming for a subtle "my lashes but better" look, or a more glamorous, dramatic effect?
• Is my primary goal to add length or to add fullness and density?
• Do I have a naturally full lash line, or are my lashes more sparse?
• Am I prepared for the regular maintenance (infills every 2-3 weeks) required?

Classic vs. hybrid vs. volume lash extensions

Understanding the core differences between the main lash styles is the most critical step in choosing your perfect set. The confusion between these three is the number one question new clients have.

Key differences at a glance

Here is a simple breakdown to demystify the options and help you communicate exactly what you want to your lash artist.

Classic lashes: Best for elegant length and definition

As we've covered, the classic lash extension is your go-to for a sophisticated enhancement. This style is all about celebrating and elongating your natural lashes.

Hybrid lashes: Best for soft texture and light volume

A hybrid eyelash extension set is the perfect middle ground. Your lash artist will strategically mix classic single lashes with handmade, lightweight volume fans. This creates a textured, wispy, and slightly more noticeable look than a classic set without committing to the full drama of volume.

Volume lashes: Best for maximum fullness and drama

Volume lashes involve the intricate art of creating lightweight "fans" of 2 to 16+ extremely fine extensions, which are then applied to a single natural lash. This technique is what creates the dense, dark, and fluffy lash lines you see on celebrities and is ideal for those who want a truly show-stopping look.

Comparing Classic, Hybrid and Volume Lash Extensions

Customising your perfect classic set: A guide to the artistry

A great set of classic lashes isn't "one-size-fits-all." It's a bespoke beauty treatment, tailored to your features. A skilled lash artist utilizes a range of materials, curls, and mapping styles to craft a look that is uniquely tailored to you.

Choosing the right material: Faux mink vs silk

• Faux Mink: The most popular choice. Faux mink lashes are soft, fine, lightweight, and slightly matte. Their texture closely mimics natural lashes, creating a soft, subtle, and fluffy look.
• Silk: Silk lashes are also lightweight but tend to be a fraction heavier than mink. They have a beautiful semi-gloss finish, which creates a slightly bolder, darker look. Silk lashes are best for achieving a more defined, inky-black, mascara-like effect.

Understanding lash curls: What C, D, and L+ curls mean for your eyes

The curl of the extension is one of the most powerful tools for enhancing your eye shape.

• B Curl: This is a very soft curl, offering a subtle lift. It's ideal for clients seeking an extremely natural result or those with very straight lashes who need a slight enhancement.
• C Curl: The top choice. C curl offers a noticeable lift, opening the eye. It's the most requested curl in Australia, suiting most eye shapes [4].
• D Curl: Dramatic and deep. D curls give the most lift, creating a wide-eyed, "doll-like" effect. Great for special occasions or a glamorous style.
• L+ Curl: This is a specialty curl with a flat base that transitions into a sharp upward curl. This unique shape is ideal for clients with hooded eyes or very straight, downward-pointing natural lashes, as it provides a powerful lift right from the lash line.

A guide to safe lash length and thickness (diameter)

Safety and lash health come first. A professional lash artist ensures the extension is only 2-3mm longer than your natural lash to prevent strain or damage.

For classic lashes, the most common diameters (thicknesses) are:

• 0.12mm: A wonderful, natural-looking thickness that suits most clients.
• 0.15mm: A slightly thicker option that creates a bolder mascara look. This diameter is best reserved for clients with naturally strong and healthy lashes that can support the extra weight.

Lash mapping for your unique eye shape

Lash mapping highlights artistry. Your artist applies different lengths to create a style that suits your features.

• Natural Eye: This map follows your own lash pattern, placing shorter lashes on the inner and outer corners and slightly longer lashes through the middle. Best for: A subtle enhancement that simply makes your natural lashes look better.
• Cat Eye: This popular style features shorter lashes on the inner half of the eye, gradually increasing in length towards the outer corner. Best for: Almond, round, or close-set eyes to create an elongated, winged, and alluring effect.
• Doll/Open Eye: This map places the longest lashes right in the centre of the eye, above the pupil, creating an arch. Best suited for monolid, downturned, or deep-set eyes, this creates a beautiful illusion of depth and openness.

Your classic lash appointment: What to expect from start to finish

Your first appointment should be relaxing and comfortable. Here’s what to expect.

Before you arrive: The consultation and patch test

A thorough consultation is key. You'll discuss your outcome, lifestyle, and allergies. The artist will assess your lashes and eye shape to recommend a custom set of lashes.

For new clients, a patch test is often recommended. This involves applying a few extensions to the outer corners of your eyes 24-48 hours before your full appointment to ensure you don't have a sensitivity to the lash adhesive.

During the application: A step-by-step process

Once you’re comfortable on the lash bed, the process is simple and painless:

1. Cleanse & Prime: Your artist will thoroughly clean your natural lashes to remove any oils or makeup, then apply a primer to ensure a strong bond.
2. Apply Eye Pads: Gentle under-eye pads will be applied to secure your bottom lashes and protect your skin.
3. Isolate & Place: This is where the magic happens. Your artist will use precision tweezers to isolate a single natural lash, then use another pair of tweezers to dip a single extension in adhesive and expertly place it.
4. Cure: The process is repeated until you have a full, beautiful set of lashes.

>>> Discover more: How to Minimize Lash Adhesive Reactions and Enhance Client Comfort

How long does a full classic set take?

Be prepared to relax! A full set of classic lashes is a meticulous process that should never be rushed. You can expect your appointment to last between 1.5 and 2 hours.

>>> Discover more: Full Set vs Refill: Lash Extension Tips

Investment and upkeep: Cost and maintenance in Australia

Classic lash extensions are an investment. The Australian Hair and Beauty Services industry is a robust $7.2 billion market [1]. With over 40,000 businesses, expertise stands out [2].

How much do classic lash extensions cost in Australia?

Pricing varies depending on your location and the experience level of your lash artist. Based on a market analysis of major Australian cities, you can expect a full set of classic extensions to cost between $90 and $180 AUD. Subsequent infills are typically priced between $60 and $100 AUD [3].

The infill schedule: Why 2-3 weeks is the magic number

Why are lash refills important? To keep your lashes looking full and flawless, you will need regular maintenance appointments, commonly referred to as "infills" or "refills." Scheduling an infill every 2-3 weeks is essential. During this appointment, your artist will remove any grown-out extensions and apply new ones to the fresh lashes that have grown in.

Understanding your lash growth cycle

Your natural lashes have a life cycle of around 60-90 days. They are constantly in one of three phases: growing (Anagen), transitioning (Catagen), or resting (Telogen), after which they shed and a new lash grows in its place. This is a completely natural phase of the eyelash cycle! An infill appointment ensures your set remains balanced and full as your natural lashes progress through their cycle.

The golden rules of classic lash aftercare

Proper aftercare is responsible for 50% of your lash retention. Following these simple rules will protect your investment and keep your lashes looking beautiful for an extended period.

The first 24-48 hours: Critical care tips

The adhesive needs time to cure fully. During this initial period, it is crucial to:

• Avoid getting your lashes wet. This means no showering, swimming, or saunas.
• Avoid steam and high heat (e.g., opening a hot oven, facials).
• Avoid sleeping on your face or on your side, where your lashes might rub against the pillow.

Daily maintenance: The do's

• Cleanse your lashes daily. Use a gentle, oil-free eyelash extension cleanser. This removes oils, makeup, and debris, preventing infections and promoting better retention.
• Brush them gently. Use a clean spoolie brush to gently groom your lashes each morning, after cleansing, to keep them fluffy and perfectly placed.
• Schedule regular infills. Pre-booking your 2-3 week infills ensures your lashes always look their best.

What to avoid: The don'ts

• Avoid all oil-based products. Oil is the number one enemy of lash adhesive. Check the ingredients on your makeup remover, cleansers, and eye creams.
• Avoid rubbing, pulling, or picking at your extensions. This can cause premature shedding and damage your natural lashes.
• Avoid waterproof mascara and mechanical curlers. You won't need them! Mascara can clump the extensions and is difficult to remove without damaging the bond.

>>> Discover more: How to Maintain Lash Extensions for Long-Lasting Results: Essential Advanced Tips

How to choose a qualified lash artist in Australia

"A cheap set of lashes is never good, and a good set of lashes is never cheap. You are paying for the health and safety of your eyes." - Expert Industry Consensus.

Your eyes are precious, and the person working on them should be a trained, qualified professional.

Green flags: What to look for in a lash professional

• Certification and Insurance: They should be able to show you proof of professional training and public liability insurance.
• A Professional Portfolio: Look for a gallery of clear, well-lit photos of their work.
• A Thorough Consultation: They ask you questions about your health, lifestyle, and desired look before touching your lashes.
• Impeccable Hygiene: The salon space is clean, tools are sterilised, and the artist uses disposable items like spoolies.
• Prioritises Lash Health: They will refuse to apply lashes that are too long or too heavy for your natural lashes to support.

Red flags: Warning signs to avoid

• Excessively Low Prices: Offering a complete set of classic lashes for under $70 is a major red flag, indicating a potential lack of experience or the use of subpar-quality products.
• Rushed Appointments: A full classic set should never take less than 90 minutes. Rushing leads to improper isolation and potential damage.
• Pain or Discomfort: Lash application should be completely painless. A stinging, burning, or poking sensation is not normal.
• A "One-Size-Fits-All" Approach: If the artist doesn't offer a consultation or customise the set to your eyes, they are not a true professional.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What's the difference between classic and regular eyelash extensions?

In the professional world, "classic" and "regular" eyelash extensions refer to the same technique: 1:1 application. The term "classic" is used to distinguish this foundational style from newer techniques, such as Volume and Hybrid.

Are classic or hybrid lashes better for a natural look?

Classic lashes offer the most natural look, as they are specifically designed to add length and definition. Hybrid lashes are a step up in fullness and texture, offering a slightly more noticeable, "wispy" appearance.

How long do classic lashes last on average?

With proper aftercare, a full set of classic lashes can last for 2-3 weeks. After this point, enough natural lashes will have shed to create noticeable gaps, at which point you will need an infill to maintain the look.

How often should I book refills?

With the right care, a full set can last around 4–6 weeks. To keep them looking fresh and full, most people book infills every 2 weeks.

Are classic lash extensions worth the investment?

For many, absolutely. They save significant time in daily makeup routines, boost confidence, and provide a polished look from the moment you wake up. The key is to view it as a recurring beauty treatment, similar to getting your nails or hair done.

Can I wear mascara with classic lash extensions?

It is strongly recommended that you refrain from doing so. Most mascaras contain oils that break down the lash adhesive, and the removal process can tug on the extensions, causing them to fall out prematurely. With a beautifully applied classic set, you won't need mascara anyway!

Classic or Hybrid Lashes – which should I choose?

It comes down to the result you’re after. Classic lashes are perfect for a subtle, natural finish. Hybrid lashes combine classic and volume techniques, creating a fluffier, more textured effect that’s a little bolder.