Article: What are soft volume lash extensions?
What are soft volume lash extensions?
We’ve all had a client ask for something that’s natural but not too natural, or they don’t want their extensions looking “too fake.” You know exactly what I’m talking about, and you know exactly what they want: soft volume lashes.
Let’s review what we know about lashes.
We know that Classic lashes are a single extension ranging from 0.10 to 0.15 placed on a single natural lash. Volume and Mega Volume lashes are a bundle of thinner lashes, ranging from 0.03 to 0.07, bonded together to create a fan. This would give the set more definition and add a touch of drama. Russian Volume lashes are narrow fans, measuring no more than 5mm in width and 1mm to 2mm longer than the natural lash.
What are Soft Volume Lashes?
Soft volume, also known as light volume, is a technique that uses thinner diameters and fewer lashes per fan, typically 2D to 4D. When a client wants a nice in-between of natural and dramatic, soft volume will achieve that look. This style of lash appears softer and lighter compared to Russian volume or Mega volume – hence the name Soft Volume. Soft Volume is the most natural volume style and is very similar to hybrid extensions, but the difference lies in the technique used to create both looks.
Like Hybrid, Soft Volume is a go-to choice for clients seeking a softer enhancement for their everyday look. Hybrid sets are traditionally created by combining classic lashes with a 2D–4D volume fan.
Soft Volume lashes are created using volume lashes 0.05, 0.06, and 0.07. Using a thinner diameter, like 0.05, will help keep the set soft. Using higher diameters, such as 0.06 and 0.07, can easily cross the boundary into traditional American Volume if you’re not using fans below a 4D. Using wider fans allows enough light to pass through, giving them that softer, natural look, whereas using a narrow fan would create a darker, denser look, which does not meet the soft volume goal.
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Who is best for a Soft Volume set?
Soft volume lashes offer the perfect balance for clients who want more fullness than a classic set but still prefer a natural, everyday look. They’re ideal for professionals, brides, or anyone who wants their eyes to stand out without a bold, dramatic finish. Soft volume is also a great starting point for clients who are new to volume lashes, those who are curious about extra fluff but not quite ready to commit to a dense set. The result is a soft, light finish that blends in with any lifestyle.
Clients with a sparse lash line would benefit from a Soft Volume set. Classic sets are a 1:1 ratio, meaning one extension is applied to one natural lash. For someone with a sparse lash line, this would only enhance this, so soft volume extensions would be better to help disguise those gaps and make the lash line look full.
Clients who want something fuller than a classic set but aren’t ready to try Mega or Russian volume looks would be a perfect candidate for soft volume, since it’ll offer a fluffier lash line and some darkness.
Why Soft Volume is Great for Client Retention
One of the biggest reasons soft volume keeps clients coming back is its versatility. It offers just enough fullness to make a noticeable difference, without looking too bold or high-maintenance. Clients love that they can wear it to work, to brunch, or to a wedding without ever feeling overdone. The fans are lighter and more spread out, soft volume also tends to grow out more gracefully than dense sets, which means better retention between fills and a more comfortable wear overall. When clients feel like their lashes still look good weeks after their appointment, that’s what builds trust — and trust turns into loyalty and referrals. Soft volume helps you deliver that balance of beauty and comfort that keeps your schedule full and your clients booked in advance.
Give Soft Volume a try!
Now that we’ve gone over the basics, it’s time for you to give them a try!
Prepare your client using Cēana Cleanser, gently cleansing the lash line using a TrüCleanse Cleansing Brush. This step gets rid of any dirt, excess oils, or makeup on your client's lash line and prepares them to form a tight bond with extensions. Apply Onlokk Patches, next. These patches will secure the bottom lashes down and keep them down. They are infused with bio-gel ingredients that won’t irritate your client during the service.
Once your prep is done, reach for 0.05, 0.06, or 0.07 lashes and use Omnigrip tweezers to create wide 2D–4D fans. These wider, lighter fans allow light to pass through the set, giving the lashes a softer, more natural appearance. Pair with a precise isolation tweezer to ensure clean placement and separation, which is key for both lash health and a polished look. Finish by using a high-quality adhesive that complements your room’s humidity and temperature to ensure a strong, flexible bond.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Soft volume may look effortless, but there’s real technique behind it, and a few common mistakes can throw off the whole set. One of the biggest missteps is using fans that are too dense or too narrow. When the fans are too heavy or tightly packed, the set starts leaning more toward full volume or even mega, which defeats the purpose of soft volume’s airy, natural look. Another common issue is skipping mapping. Even though soft volume is meant to look soft and blended, you still need a clear plan to maintain balance and symmetry across the lash line. Lastly, don’t forget to adjust length, curl, and placement based on the client’s eye shape. What looks soft on one client might look overwhelming on another. Precision and intention touch are key to getting it right.
