Different Types of Lash Extensions & Treatments: UK Trends for 2026

Lash extensions have become a popular beauty choice for many who want to enhance their natural lashes without the daily hassle of mascara or strip lashes. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right type for your lifestyle and look. This guide breaks down the most popular lash extension types and treatments trending in the UK for 2026, helping you find the perfect fit for your eyes.

Express lashes applied on natural lashes, perfect for short-term wear

Express Lashes

Express Lashes use individual or cluster eyelashes applied on top and in between your natural lashes. They offer a quick, temporary boost to your lash line, making them ideal for special occasions like parties or weekend events. These lashes are designed to last up to a week and provide a natural yet noticeable enhancement without the commitment of longer-lasting extensions.

• Best for: Short-term wear, party looks, those who dislike strip lashes

• Duration: Up to 1 week

• Maintenance: No infills available, so they are a one-time application

• Look: Natural with subtle volume

  
  

Express Lashes are perfect if you want to try extensions without a long-term commitment or need a quick glam-up for an event.

Classic Lashes

Classic Lashes involve applying one extension to one natural lash. This method enhances your natural lashes by adding length and slight volume without looking overly dramatic. There are two main styles within Classic Lashes:

• Natural set: Covers about 70% of your natural lashes for a subtle enhancement

• Glam set: Covers up to 99% of your natural lashes for a fuller, more defined look

  
  

Classic Lashes suit first-timers or those who prefer minimal makeup but want a polished appearance. With proper care, they last between 2 to 4 weeks before needing a fill.

• Best for: Beginners, minimal makeup wearers

• Duration: 2 to 4 weeks

• Maintenance: Requires fills every 2 to 4 weeks

  
  

Hybrid Lashes

Hybrid Lashes combine Classic and Russian Volume techniques. This mix creates a look that is fuller than Classic but less dense than full Volume lashes. Hybrid sets offer a textured, dimensional effect that adds a bit of drama without overwhelming your natural lashes.

• Best for: People who want extra volume but not full thickness

• Duration: 2 to 4 weeks with good maintenance

• Look: Textured and voluminous, balanced between natural and dramatic

  
  

Hybrid Lashes are a great choice if you want to experiment with volume but prefer a lighter feel.

Hybrid lashes combining classic and volume techniques for a textured look

Russian Volume Lashes

Russian Volume Lashes use a different technique from Classic Lashes. Instead of one extension per natural lash, multiple ultra-fine extensions are fanned out and applied to a single natural lash. These fans can range from 2D (two extensions) up to 8D or more, creating a very full, dramatic look.

• Best for: Those who want a bold, glamorous lash line

• Duration: 3 to 4 weeks

• Look: Very full, fluffy, and voluminous

  
  

The thinner extensions used in Russian Volume allow your natural lashes to support the weight of multiple extensions without damage. This method is popular for special occasions or for those who love a standout lash look.

Lower Lashes

Lower Lashes focus on enhancing the bottom lash line using a closed-eye technique to attach fine lashes. This treatment adds a glamorous, dramatic effect to the eyes and is perfect for weddings, birthdays, or everyday beauty queens who want a polished look from every angle.

• Best for: Special events, enhancing lower lash line

• Duration: 2 to 3 weeks with good care

• Look: Glamorous and defined lower lashes

  
  

Lower Lashes require careful application to avoid irritation and maintain comfort.

Mini Fill

A Mini Fill is a quick touch-up designed for clients who want to refresh their lashes before an event or after a night out when lashes might have been disturbed. This treatment takes about 30 minutes and must be done within two weeks of the last full set. It is not intended as a regular fill service.

• Best for: Quick top-ups before events

• Duration: Short session, immediate refresh

• Note: Not a substitute for regular fills

  
  

Mini Fills help maintain your lash look without the time commitment of a full fill.

Mini fill treatment refreshing eyelash extensions before an event

Removal

Proper removal of lash extensions is crucial to protect your natural lashes. A specific remover is used to weaken the bond between the extensions and adhesive safely. Avoid removing lashes yourself to prevent damage or irritation.

• Best practice: Always seek professional removal

• Why: Prevents lash damage and irritation

  
  

If you decide to stop wearing extensions, schedule a removal appointment with a trained technician.

Choosing the right lash extension or treatment depends on your lifestyle, desired look, and how much maintenance you want to commit to. Whether you want a quick, temporary boost with Express Lashes or a full, dramatic effect with Russian Volume, there is an option to suit your needs in 2026’s UK beauty trends.