Open vs Closed Fans: The Lash Debate No One Tells You About

It's not as simple as "slapping a few on and hoping for the best" if you've ever fallen down the rabbit hole of lash extensions. Oh no, there's a whole realm of fan styles, curls, mapping, and technique. Additionally, open vs. closed fans are a topic of discussion among lash technicians and their clients.

Now, if you're sitting there wondering, "Are you a fan? Don't worry. "Like the ones you wave in the summer?" We're referring about lash fans, which are tiny clusters of really fine lashes that are employed to generate sets of volume. Your ultimate appearance is greatly influenced by how they are fanned out. Let's have a direct conversation without any nonsense. 

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What’s a Lash Fan, Anyway? 

Your lash technician does more than simply apply a single extension to a single natural lash when you receive volume lashes. Rather, they fan out a number of finer lashes into a little bouquet and then affix them to a single natural lash. That's how you achieve that full, glitzy, fluffy effect.

The worst part is that not all fans are created equal. They all have completely distinct moods, some of which are open and some of which are closed.

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Open Fans – Fluffy and Wispy 

As the name suggests, open fans are dispersed to give each lash in the bundle room. Imagine a little, broad portable fan on a hot day. That's the result.

• The Look: Soft, fluttery, wispy lashes that give you the impression that you're walking out of a romantic comedy with your hair flowing in the breeze.
• Ideal For: Customers seeking a more organic, light atmosphere. Excellent if you like the "undone but still put together" style.
• Advantages: They provide a softer finish, fill gaps well, and fit practically everyone.
• Cons: Making them is a little more difficult, and if done incorrectly, they may appear haphazard rather than deliberate.

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Closed Fans – Dense and Defined 

The fibres of closed fans are closer together, making them tighter. Imagine them as a collection of straws in a cup—neat and compact, with no gaps between.

• The Look: More "eyeliner effect," bolder, and darker. Closed fans give the lash line a lot of definition, making it look like makeup is already applied.
• Ideal For: Customers desiring drama without the hassle of applying eyeliner every morning. Ideal for evenings out or if you simply like a sophisticated, glossy appearance.
• Advantages: very tidy, intense, and long-lasting due to the stronger attachment.
• Cons: They might appear blocky if you apply too much, and they don't fill in sparse regions as effectively.

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So, Which One’s Better? 

In actuality, it doesn't matter which is better; what matters is the style you want. Do you want something fluffy and soft? Open up. Want something bold and dark? Shut down.

The key is that many lash technicians combine the two in a single set. With a few closed fans for density and a few open fans for fluff, you can create a set that appears full but still airy. It's essentially the lash equivalent of combining designer and high-street items to create the ideal ensemble.

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How to Know What Works for You 

Speak with your lash technician if you're unsure about the style you want. They will examine your eye shape, your natural lashes, and the mood you want to convey. Do you have gaps in your eyelashes? Open supporters will come to the rescue. Do you want to seem bold and "lash line snatched"? Your friend is a closed fan.

Ultimately, the beauty of lashes is that they aren't one-size-fits-all.

There are two methods to master your lash game: open and closed fans. It's not a fight. Closed fans are bold and defined, while open fans are fluffy and organic. When combined, they are unstoppable.

Therefore, keep in mind that every tiny fan is made with a purpose the next time you're resting in the lash chair wondering what miracle your tech is working on. It all comes down to designing a style that makes you feel like the greatest version of yourself, whether that look is wide open or tightly closed.

Because, at the end of the day, having excellent lashes is about feeling as fantastic as they look.