The Ultimate Guide to Lash Extensions: Classic, Hybrid, Volume & Mega Explained

Choosing the Right Lash Extensions

If you’ve ever looked at a lash menu and felt confused by the options — classic lashes, hybrid lashes, volume lashes, mega volume lashes — you’re not alone. At The Lab Retreat in Kersey, Suffolk, many new clients come to us with the same question: “Which lash style is best for me?”

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your ideal set depends on your natural lashes, your eye shape, your lifestyle, and the look you want to achieve. That’s why every lash treatment at The Lab Retreat is fully bespoke and tailored to you.

To help you decide, here’s our complete guide to the different lash extension styles we offer.

What Are Lash Extensions?

Lash extensions are individual fibres (synthetic, silk, or mink-like materials) that are carefully applied to your natural lashes using a safe adhesive. Unlike strip lashes, which you glue on and remove daily, lash extensions are semi-permanent and last until your natural lashes shed.

At The Lab Retreat, we only use premium products from trusted suppliers like LashBase and Pink Fishes, ensuring the safest, longest-lasting, and most beautiful results possible.

Classic Lash Extensions – The Natural Choice

Best for: First-timers, a subtle “mascara look,” everyday wear

Classic lash extensions are the most natural style. Each extension is applied to one natural lash (known as a 1:1 ratio). The result? Enhanced length and definition, while still looking soft and understated.

• Perfect if you want your lashes to look like you, but better.

• Great for professionals, brides, or anyone who wants effortless everyday beauty.

• Treatment time: 2 hours for a full set

• Maintenance: Infill every 2–3 weeks

👉 Book a Classic Lash Full Set at The Lab Retreat for £80.

Hybrid Lash Extensions – The Best of Both Worlds

Best for: A versatile look, more fullness without going too bold

Hybrid lashes combine classic lashes with volume fans (multiple lightweight lashes applied in a fan to one natural lash). Typically, we use a 50/50 mix, but this can be adjusted depending on how soft or full you want your set to look.

• Great if you want more depth than classic lashes but don’t want to commit to a full volume set.

• Often the most popular choice at The Lab Retreat.

• Treatment time: 2 hours for a full set

• Maintenance: Infill every 2–3 weeks

👉 Book a Hybrid Lash Full Set at The Lab Retreat for £90.

Volume Lash Extensions (Russian Lashes) – Glamour & Drama

Best for: Special occasions, clients who love bold, glamorous lashes

Volume lashes are created using ultra-lightweight lash fans — anywhere from 5–20 lashes per fan. The more lashes per fan, the fuller and fluffier the final look.

• Great for those who want their lashes to truly stand out.

• Customisable from soft glamour to ultra-dramatic.

• Treatment time: 2 hours for a full set

• Maintenance: Infill every 2–3 weeks

👉 Book a Volume Lash Full Set at The Lab Retreat for £100.

Mega Volume Lash Extensions – The Ultimate Statement

Best for: High-impact looks, lash lovers, and photoshoots

Mega lashes are similar to volume lashes, but use even finer lashes to create denser fans. This results in the most dramatic, bold lash style available.

• Creates maximum fullness and definition.

• Perfect for clients who love wearing makeup or want to make a big statement.

• Not for the faint-hearted — these lashes are made to stand out!

👉 Book a Mega Lash Extension Full Set at The Lab Retreat (pricing on consultation).

Lash Lift & Tint – A Natural Alternative

Not quite ready for extensions? A Lash Lift & Tint curls your natural lashes and tints them black or dark brown. This opens up the eyes and creates a mascara-like effect without extensions.

• Lasts up to 8 weeks

• Low maintenance

• Great for clients who prefer a natural look or don’t want to commit to extensions

👉 Book a Lash Lift & Tint at The Lab Retreat for £55.

How to Choose the Right Lash Style for You

When deciding on the right lash extensions, think about:

• Your lifestyle – Do you wear heavy makeup daily, or do you prefer a more natural look?

• Your natural lashes – Finer lashes may need lighter sets, while strong lashes can support fuller fans.

• Your eye shape – Styles like cat eye, doll eye, fox eye, or squirrel eye can be created within any lash type.

• Maintenance – Extensions need infills every 2–3 weeks. If you want something lower maintenance, a lash lift may be better.

At The Lab Retreat, every appointment begins with a consultation to help you find the perfect match.

Lash Extensions FAQ

Q: How long do lash extensions last?With proper aftercare, lash extensions can last 4–6 weeks, but regular infills every 2–3 weeks are recommended to keep them looking fresh.

Q: Do lash extensions damage natural lashes?When applied correctly by a trained professional (like at The Lab Retreat), lash extensions are safe and won’t damage your natural lashes.

Q: Can I wear mascara with lash extensions?It’s not recommended. Mascara can break down the adhesive and cause premature shedding.

Q: Do I need a patch test?Yes, all clients must have a patch test at least 24 hours before treatment.

Book Your Lash Extensions at The Lab Retreat

Whether you’re new to lashes or a regular extension lover, at The Lab Retreat in Kersey, Suffolk, you’ll get a fully bespoke service tailored to your style. From subtle classic lashes to bold mega volume sets, we’ll create a look that makes your eyes pop.

📍 Find us at: Kersey Mill, Kersey, Ipswich, Suffolk📅 Book online today: Book a Treatment📩 Email: thelabretreatsuffolk@gmail.com📞 Call: 07966217059

✨ Your dream lashes are just one appointment away.