Lash Extensions Vs. Lash Lift: Which Should You Get?

pros

• Eyelash extensions can be a good alternative for people with sparse natural lashes.
• They can be removed safely by a professional if desired.
• They can boost confidence and self-esteem.
• They can enhance the eyes and overall appearance.
• They can last several weeks with proper maintenance.
• They’re Convenient for those who want to save time on their daily makeup routine.
• They help create a fuller, longer look for natural lashes.
• They are customizable in length, thickness, and curl to match personal preferences.
• No need to use mascara or eyelash curler.
• Requires minimal maintenance compared to a lash lift.

cons

• They can be costly to maintain, requiring regular touch-ups.
• They can be difficult to remove without professional help.
• They can be time-consuming to apply and remove.
• They can cause damage to natural lashes if not applied or removed properly.
• They can cause natural lashes to become weak or brittle with overuse.
• They may cause irritation, itching, or redness if the adhesive or the extensions are not high-quality.
• They may not be suitable for people with sensitive eyes or allergies to adhesives.
• When getting extensions, you must avoid water and certain products for 24-48 hours after application.
• Not recommended for people with naturally short or sparse lashes.
• Regular touch-ups are required to maintain the desired look.

A lash lift, on the other hand, also known as a lash perm, is a semi-permanent treatment that enhances the natural lashes and gives them a lifted and curled appearance using a chemical solution and silicone rods.

Lash perming is a low-maintenance treatment that requires no daily upkeep. It’s a good option for those who want to enhance their lashes without using eyelash extensions.

The procedure involves the application of a lifting lotion to the lashes, which breaks down the bonds in the lashes and reshapes them.

The lashes are then placed on silicone rods, and a setting solution is applied to set the new shape.

The process takes approximately 45 minutes to roughly one hour. The result is longer, fuller, and more lifted lashes.

The effects of a lash lift can last up to several weeks, depending on your natural lash growth cycle. This may not be the same for everyone.

It’s important to note that a trained and licensed professional should perform this treatment to minimize the risk of damage to the lashes.

Like lash extensions, a trained lash tech should perform lash lifts. However, lash lifts require little to no maintenance or touch-ups, unlike lash extensions.

pros

• Lifts and curls natural lashes, giving a more open-eyed appearance.
• Minimal maintenance is required.
• Chemical-free alternative to eyelash extensions.
• Natural-looking results.
• Lifted lashes can be combined with a lash tint for even more definition.
• Safe and gentle on natural lashes.
• More cost-effective compared to eyelash extensions.
• Minimal aftercare is required.
• Ideal for people with naturally straight or downward-facing lashes.
• Semi-permanent treatment that lasts 4-6 weeks.

cons

• Lifting isn’t as long-lasting as eyelash extensions.
• Results may vary depending on the health and length of natural lashes.
• You must wait for natural lashes to grow back before receiving another treatment.
• Lash lifts can cause damage to natural lashes if not performed correctly.
• Results may not be as dramatic as those achieved with eyelash extensions.
• Not suitable for people with very short or sparse natural lashes.
• Lifts can cause irritation or redness if the product used is high quality.
• Lifts may require touch-ups more frequently than eyelash extensions.
• May not be ideal for people with very curly or kinky lashes.
• Professional treatment is recommended to achieve the best results.

Cost
Lash treatment prices vary depending on the service you want, the lash style, the location, and the popularity of the salon.

If you’re planning to get eyelash extensions, expect the price to range from $150 to $500.

Also, you need to pay for the charges for lash in-fills that your extensions will likely need every 2 to 3 weeks. These touch-ups usually cost anywhere from $30 to $100.

On the other hand, lash lifts are typically less expensive, costing, on average, between $100 to $150. Unlike lash extensions, lash lifts do not require monthly in-fills.

Application
Lash extensions are done by applying individual synthetic fibers to the natural lashes using an adhesive.

Lash lift, on the other hand, involves using a chemical solution and silicone rods to lift and curl the natural lashes.

Results
Lash extensions create a full and dramatic look with longer and thicker lashes.

Lash lift enhances the natural lashes by lifting and curling them, enhancing your lashes by creating a more natural and subtle appearance.

Longevity
Both lash extensions and lash lifts usually last for several weeks, depending on the growth cycle of your natural lash.

As your natural lashes return to normal, your lash extensions will usually begin to fall or shed following your natural hair growth cycle, typically every six to eight weeks.

The difference is that lash extensions need touch-up appointments and maintenance every two to three weeks to replace any lashes that have fallen out and to ensure your lashes still look full.