What springs to mind when you think of lash extensions? Something a bit OTT and, dare I say, Love Island-esque? Then you haven’t tried hybrid lashes, a trending type of extensions that’s become the not-so-secret weapon of every glamorous 40-plus celebrity, from Victoria Beckham to Jennifer Lopez.
Not only do hybrid lashes promise to immediately open the eyes and cheat a flattering, youthful, wide-awake look, they’re also meant to slash your getting-ready time in the morning. It’s a very tempting sell, even to someone like me who fell off the lash extensions bandwagon a long time ago.
Award-winning lash and brow guru Shavata Singh assures me that hybrid lashes will be the version to reel me back in, being ideally suited to a midlifer like me. They are, she says, the ultimate sweet spot lash, being neither too TOWIE nor so subtle you may as well save yourself the bother and stick to mascara.
What are hybrid lashes?
The clue is right there in the name, explains Shavata. ‘Hybrid lashes are a type of eyelash extension that blend two different techniques: classic lashes (one extension per natural lash) and volume lashes (multiple ultra-fine extensions fanned out per natural lash). The result is a textured, fuller look that adds both definition and softness.’
While classic lashes are quite subtle, and volume lashes are ultra-glam, hybrid lashes ‘sit perfectly in between, adding volume without going overboard’, says Shavata, who's the founder of a chain of eponymous UK beauty clinics. ‘They’re ideal for those who want noticeable lashes with a bit of flair but not the full drama of volume sets.’
In other words, lashes that give you a bit of oomph but don’t make you feel, well, silly. Or even worse, mutton-y.
Definitely not that, says Shavata. ‘They’re flattering for all ages. Because they open up the eyes and add a soft lift, they often create a more youthful appearance. The textured finish gives a natural-looking fullness that enhances rather than overwhelms. Their popularity is driven by the rise of “effortless glam” beauty trends, where women want to look polished without heavy makeup.’
Do hybrid lashes just give one look?
No, it’s not a one-size-fits-all. While they do give what Shavata calls a ‘best of both worlds – definition and fullness’, they’re very versatile, too. ‘Hybrid lashes are customisable to suit different eye shapes and personal styles,’ she notes.
What’s involved in a hybrid lash treatment?
The treatment begins with a consultation to determine your desired look, then extensions are applied using a mix of classic and volume techniques, she explains. ‘The appointment can take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the desired fullness and your natural lash condition.’ You’ll need to have a patch test 24-48 hours before your first treatment to check for any allergic reaction to the adhesive used during the lash application. ‘It’s a simple and essential step to ensure your safety and comfort,’ says Shavata. So don’t skip it.
Do hybrid lashes harm natural lashes?
‘When applied professionally and cared for properly, hybrid lashes shouldn’t damage your natural lashes,’ says Shavata. ‘Damage typically occurs from poor application, heavy extensions or improper removal. Choosing a qualified lash technician and following aftercare advice is key to keeping your natural lashes healthy.’
How long do hybrid lashes last?
‘Hybrid lashes typically last 4-6 weeks, but they naturally shed with your own lash cycle,’ says Shavata. ‘Most people book infill appointments every 2-3 weeks to keep them looking full and fresh.’ So yes, expect upkeep, although infill appointments are much shorter than the initial fitting.
What’s the aftercare?
‘Maintenance includes gentle cleansing with an oil-free lash cleanser, avoiding waterproof eye makeup and resisting the urge to rub or pull at your lashes,’ says Shavata. ‘Sleeping on your back or using a silk pillowcase can also help extend their wear.’
Review: what’s it like to have hybrid lashes?
With your eyes taped closed for up to two hours, this isn’t a treatment you can keep checking in on as you go, so make sure you’re aligned with your therapist before you get started. My brief is simple: ‘I’d like to wake up every morning looking like I’m already wearing the world’s best mascara,’ I say. (Not much to ask for, right?!)
Do discuss the length as well as the fullness, because lash extensions are pitch-black, which will add plenty of definition just via their darkening, thickening effect. Less length is often more. ‘Your own lashes are naturally long so I’m not going to make the extensions longer than that in the middle,’ says my therapist at Shavata’s Chiswick salon. ‘You only have a small space between your lash tips and brow, and we don’t want your extensions to end up brushing your eyebrows.’
My outer edges can, though, be made a smidge longer. ‘That gives a nice lifting effect and opens the eyes,’ she adds. Blepharoplasty in faux lash form? Sure, why not!
It is a very, very long treatment, so my advice is to accept a blanket and not feel rude if you doze off. ‘Honestly, please do,’ I’m told. ‘We completely expect it, and it’s nicer for clients if they get to relax.’
I drift in and out for the duration, occasionally vaguely aware of my lashes being gently unpicked if two stick together, but mostly I have no concept of what’s going on. Lush.
What’s the result like?
Wow, the transformation is seriously striking. To show off the full hybrid lash effect, my therapist applied a full set, which involves adding an extension on every single lash. Combined with the super-black colour of the lashes, I look like I’m ready for a night out.
The illusion is wild. Despite wearing zero eye makeup, I look like I’ve got a smokey eye, thanks to the fan of fluffy lashes around the crease line. The colour density at the lash base creates the illusion of a perfectly applied skinny liner, too.
I like it even more a week or so later when I’m back at work, when a few of the lashes have naturally shed and the glam-up is dialled down just a fraction. I think I’ll settle for this level of hybrid lash when I get it redone, as this really does look like a fabulous lifting mascara, bar any clumping or flaking.
And yes, I will 100% get it redone. As well as giving my eyes a flattering lift, it means I wake up pretty much good to go, which saves me so, so much time. When I tell people in the office I’m not wearing any other eye makeup at all, they do a double take to see if I’m telling the truth.
I also love dispensing with the daily chore of removing mascara. There’s no rubbing, grinding or scrubbing at my eyes, which I’m sure must add to the general anti-ageing benefits.
So the hybrid is a big yes from me. Youth-boosting, eye-lifting, Posh-approved and a lovely snoozy lie-down as well. What could be more perfect for a midlife pick-me-up?
- Prices for hybrid lash extensions vary nationwide. The treatment starts from £91 at Shavata salons.
