The 5 Fan Types at a Glance
Before we dive in, here’s a quick overview of the five fan types we’re covering:
• Standard Fan
• Wide Fan
• Narrow Fan
• Spike / Closed Fan
• Angel / Pixie Lash
Each one serves a different purpose — and the best lash techs know how to move between them depending on the look, the client, and the set.
Standard Fan
A standard fan has an evenly spread, balanced shape with a medium-width base and symmetrical fibre distribution. It’s the most versatile fan type in volume lashing and the one most techs reach for by default.
Best used for:
• Russian volume
• Mega volume
• Hybrid sets
• Everyday fluffy volume looks
Creates: A soft, full lash line with even density and good coverage across the entire set.
Wide Fan
A wide fan has fibres spread further apart than a standard fan, creating more width and surface coverage across the lash line. The base is shorter and the fibres open out into a broader, fluffier shape.
Best used for:
• Mega volume
• Strip-lash effect sets
• Clients with sparse natural lashes
Creates: Maximum fluffiness, softness and coverage while maintaining a lightweight feel — ideal when you want that full, fluffy, almost-strip-lash result without the weight.
Narrow Fan
A narrow fan has fibres positioned closer together, creating a denser, darker appearance with less spread. The stem tends to be longer than average, which contributes to the tighter, more concentrated shape.
Best used for:
• Dense Russian volume
• Eyeliner effect sets
• Dark lash lines
Creates: A bold, defined lash line with increased darkness and density — perfect for clients who want that dramatic, intense look.
Spike / Closed Fan
A spike or closed fan is created when the fibres remain together rather than opening into a traditional fan shape. The tips stay fully closed or are sealed using a bonder or sealant during application.
Best used for:
• Wispy sets
• Wet look sets
• Strip lash inspired styling
• Texture creation
Creates: Defined spikes, separation and texture throughout the set — the go-to fan type for that trendy, editorial wispy or wet look finish.
Angel / Pixie Lash
An angel lash fan sits between a closed fan and a traditional volume fan. It’s a very narrow, lightly opened fan with minimal spread and a feather-light appearance.
Best used for:
• Angel sets
• Pixie sets
• Soft wispy sets
• Textured light volume
Creates: A feathery, airy appearance with visible texture while maintaining softness — beautiful for clients who want something light, pretty and effortless-looking.
Why Your Lash Fibres Matter
Here’s the part most people skip over — your fan type is only as good as the lash fibre you’re working with.
Not all lash fibres fan the same. Fibre quality, strip design and manufacturing all affect fan creation, base quality and consistency. If you’re struggling to get clean, symmetrical fans — your lashes might be the problem, not your technique.
High quality lash fibres give you:
• Easier fan creation
• Cleaner bases
• Better symmetry
• Faster pickup
• Improved retention
• More consistent results
Loose-base fibres in particular help you create narrow, wide and textured fans with greater control and less effort — making the difference between a frustrating set and a flawless one.
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