When it comes to makeup, I’m a firm believer that your lash game can totally transform your face. Let’s be real—sometimes even the best mascara just can’t cut it, and while falsies or lash extensions are a great option for added oomph, the upkeep can be intimidating, especially if you prefer a more low-maintenance approach to makeup. That’s where the lash lift comes in. “The lash lift is ideal for those who find the volume or upkeep of extensions to be too much,” says Linda Seferovic, certified and licensed lash expert at Lilibeth New York. “It’s a more natural look and does not require frequent touch ups as eyelash extensions do.”
What is a lash lift exactly?
A lash lift is essentially a lash perm that curls your natural lashes. “A lash lift is an advanced keratin technique designed to curl and boost your natural lashes, without having to resort to false lashes and extensions,” says Seferovic.
How does a lash lift work?
If you’re ready to revamp your lashes, set aside an hour for your appointment. To prep for your appointment, you should refrain from using waterproof mascara prior to the procedure, and skip the eyelash curler for three days leading up to the procedure. You’ll lie down and keep your eyes closed for the duration of the time. “We start by cleansing the eye area to make sure they are completely free of oils and makeup,” says Seferovic. This step is to ensure that serums, lotions, and creams aren’t going to interfere with the process.
Next, rounded silicone pads are placed on top of your eyelids. Your technician will discuss your desired results prior to starting the treatment to determine which forms to use. “There are different types of silicone forms that are used depending on the desired styling and the amount of curl you would like to achieve,” says Seferovic. “Your lashes are going to be lifted from base to tip so you will be able to see its full length.”
Now that the lashes are prepped, the keratin solution (aka the perming solution) is applied for 12 to 15 minutes. “The solution works to smooth out and strengthen your lashes while giving them a semi-permanent shape,” says Seferovic. After the keratin solution is processed and removed, a conditioner solution is applied for 10 minutes.
If you decide to also get a tint, it would be applied after the conditioner solution is removed. “Once it is completed, the silicone forms are removed with a nourishing oil, and your lashes are gently cleansed to ensure that all products are removed,” says Seferovic.
How long do lash lifts last?
As you naturally shed your old lashes and new ones grow in, the new ones that haven’t been treated with the perming solution will grow in straight—but as long as you take proper care of your lashes post-treatment, your lift can last you approximately 8 to 12 weeks. “After care includes not wetting the lashes for the first 48 hours,” says Seferovic (and that includes applying mascara). “You should also avoid heavy oils, creams, wipes, and sleep eye masks to help the longevity of your lash lift.”
How much does a lash lift cost?
Depending on where you live, a lash lift can cost between $75 and $150. At Lilibeth in NYC, for examples, a lash lift is $110, which includes a tint. That puts the treatment in a price bracket that’s traditionally cheaper than lash extensions.
Can you wear makeup with a lash lift?
Unlike eyelash extensions, lash lifts are extremely low maintenance, especially where mascara is involved. “It’s totally fine to use mascara 48 hours after your lash lift,” says Seferovic. But after a lash lift and tint (more on that below), you might find you don’t want to.
So what’s a lash tint then?
If you want to skip out on having to apply mascara, combine your lift with a tinting service for extra drama. “At Lilibeth, a lash lift service comes with a free lash tint,” says Seferovic. The treatments are done at the same time, leaving clients with luscious lashes. “They work together to make your lashes look fabulous!”
If you do go for a tint, however, it won’t last as long as your lift. “The tint begins to fade after three or four weeks,” says Seferovic. You can either turn to mascara to darken your lashes, or you can re-tint your lifted lashes to refresh the low-maintenance look.