Have you been piling on coats of mascara and wrestling with strips of falsies that keep falling off?
Are you tired of investing in high-end mascara tubes and eyelash curlers but still don’t get that Pinterest lash definition you’ve been aiming for?
If yes, then it might be time to consider trying lash lifts – semi-permanent beauty treatments that leave you with well-defined, longer-looking, and perfectly curled lashes that last you up to eight weeks (not kidding).
But, before you start calling your technicians and stylists to book an appointment, you need to equip yourself with all the information you need to know about lash lifts. With that, here is a comprehensive guide to how lash lifts works, the cost, and how to maintain them.
What Are Lash Lifts?
Lash lifts are like perms – they’re permanent curls for your lashes. Compared to lash extensions which are hand-glued on top of your natural lashes, lash lifts alter the shape of your natural lashes, thus giving you more defined curls.
These beauty treatments involve lifting every individual lash with various solutions (adhesive, perming, and condition) that permanently change the shape of the lashes until the hairs fall out and you grow a new set of lashes.
Of course, these hairs don’t fall out at once, but the results will be dramatic and last you four to six weeks. Lash lifts are often coupled with lash tints for darker, longer-looking, and thicker lashes.
Lash tints involve using a special dye to darken the lashes, providing you with weeks of super-dark lashes without the use of mascara.
What Does A Lash Lift Procedure Entail?
Lash lifts are pretty straightforward, and since your eyes are shut for the entire process, you might find it completely relaxing.
They are also customizable, so you and your technician can work together to find the perfect curl. This, of course, will be done during the consultation stage.
Once you and your tech are on the same page, the technician will begin by placing a silicone pad on your eyelids with a gentle adhesive (it’ll allow you to get an enhanced and more consistent curl).
The technician will then comb the lashes over the pad and hold them in place with the same solution. Afterward, the tech will prudently apply a perming solution at the root of your lashes to start the reshaping process.
According to experts, lash lifts use a perming product (mainly thioglycolic acid) to help break the bond of your lashes to modify their shape, leaving them with a more defined appearance. And yes, putting a chemical solution close to your eyeballs might sound like something from the Mission Impossible files, but as long as you use a credible technician, lash lifts are a safe procedure.
Lastly, the licensed pro will apply a neutralizing solution to strengthen the new curls and then top off your lashes with a conditioning product to help soften and strengthen your hairs.
The appointment mostly lasts anywhere between 45 minutes to an hour, so be sure to wear something comfortable.
Do Lash Lifts & Tints Damage Eyelashes?
No, they don’t. As mentioned above, all you need to do is fund a certified pro, which is why experts recommend conducting your research before booking an appointment.
Ensure also to check if your tech has proper certification (that information is readily available on their website or social media platforms), read the reviews, and ensure you’ll be going to a clean and secure studio.
How Long Do Lash Lifts Last?
Lash lifts usually last about six to eight weeks. However, this depends on how well you take care of your new set of curls.
What’s the Best Way to Maintain A Lash Lift?
Maintaining lashes is simple. All you have to do is:
• Keep the lashes dry
• Skip on eye makeup for a few weeks
• Avoid sleeping on your face the first 24 hours after the treatment since it takes over 30 hours for the perm to set
• After the 24 hours are over and you go back to regular programming, keep in mind that humidity and water can cause damage to the perm lift, so you need to be careful when swimming or working out.
How Much Does A Lash Lift Cost?
Lash lifts typically cost anywhere from $50 to $200 based on the location and the technician’s credentials.
You’ll also require some touch-ups every four to six weeks if you choose to keep up with the treatments. Therefore, you need to consider all the associated costs before committing to the process.
Can You Still Wear Mascara with Lash Lifts?
Unlike with lash extensions, where mascara is highly frowned upon, you don’t have to put away your makeup with lash lifts (although you won’t need your curler for the duration of the treatment).
Therefore, if you’re looking to define or thicken your lashes, you can feel safe and comfortable layering them with your favorite mascara. All you have to do is wait up to 72 hours after your treatment to pick up your mascara and avoid smudge-proof products.
Waterproof mascara strips the treatment and affects its longevity. Instead, choose products loaded with proteins and natural conditioning ingredients like aloe vera, castor oil, and vitamin E.
Who Shouldn’t Get A Lash Lift?
Several individuals are excellent candidates for lash lifts. However, these beauty treatments might not be ideal for anyone who is pregnant and in their first trimester.
If pregnant, be sure to check with your OBGYN before making an appointment.
People with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and blepharitis should also avoid lash lifts, as the perming products might trigger irritation.
The beauty treatment might not be ideal for individuals with pre-existing medical eye conditions like dry eye syndrome and glaucoma or who recently had laser surgery. Make sure you consult with a health provider before making any rash decisions.
Lastly, as a precaution, ensure you don’t DIY this process. While beauty bloggers and influencers might make it look simple on Instagram or TikTok, lash lifts are one of these treatments that only a certified professional should handle!
