NEW: now offering an unlimited membership! Learn More

CLB Wink

Lashes • Brows • Love

blog_post_image

Lash Lift vs Extensions: Which Is Best for You?

Eyelash Extensions

Posted by Jennifer Ngo at June 12th, 2020

So, you’ve decided that your eyelashes need a little boost! Now comes a big decision: do you want to get a lash lift or eyelash extensions Both lash lifts and lash extensions can give your eyelashes a voluminous boost while reducing the amount of time you have to spend in front of the mirror getting ready in the morning! Because both lash lifts and extensions are great options for reaching your lash goals, it can be hard for some people to choose a winner in the lash lift vs extension battle.  That’s why we wanted to make a post that explains each service in detail so you can make the best and most informed decision. Without further ado, let’s get into it!

What Is a Lash Lift?

A lash lift is mostly known as being an alternative to eyelash extensions. But don’t make the mistake in thinking that lash lifts are worse or lesser than lash extensions. Lash lifts use specially made, non-toxic chemicals on your natural lashes. These chemicals work to break down the lashes’ structural bonds and reform them. They’re kind of like a perm for your eyelashes! This allows your lashes to become curled from the base to the tip, which makes them appear longer and lusher.  That’s an important distinction: while a lash lift does add curl to your lashes, it doesn’t actually add length or volume. They just appear to look longer and fuller because of the added curl.

What Are Eyelash Extensions?

Unlike lash lifts, eyelash extensions actually do add length and volume to your natural lashes. Eyelash extensions work by placing artificial lashes, called extensions, to your natural lashes. Each lash is attached to one of your natural lashes 1-2 mm from the base of the eyelid with special lash glue. This glue isn't harmful or irritating.  Eyelash extensions can come in various thicknesses, curl shapes, lengths, and colors in order to completely transform your lash look. 

Looking for more detailed explanations of our services?

We have a FAQ page that has more detailed explanations that will likely answer all of your questions!


Major Differences with Lash Lift vs Extensions

Now that you know what these two services are like at their core, let’s look at the major differences that could be your deciding factor.

Longevity and Maintenance

Lash lifts can last anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks depending on how fast your natural lashes grow, fall out, etc.  Eyelash extensions, on the other hand, can last without upkeep for about 3 to 4 weeks, but with regular maintenance, they can last indefinitely. Eyelash extensions require much more upkeep and maintenance than lash lifts do. Usually, we recommend getting a re-lash or maintenance appointment every 2-4 weeks. This maintenance can make the appearance you get from the service last much longer than lash lifts. Lash lifts require you to not touch them or apply mascara for at least a couple days after the treatment. They require a 24-48 hour setting period. After that, though, you can wear mascara as normal. With lash extensions, you won’t even need mascara because of the added length, volume, and thickness! Bottom line: if you want to get something once and not have to think about it again, then a lash lift would be your best option.  However, if you want something longer-lasting and don’t mind a bit of upkeep, go for eyelash extensions.

Working with What You’ve Got (...or What You Don’t)

A lash lift works only with your natural lashes. So, if you don’t have the fullest lashes, they’re short, or you just don’t like them for some reason, lash lifts might not give you the results you’re looking for.  Remember: lash lifts don’t actually add any length or volume. If that’s what you’re looking for, you might be better off going for eyelash extensions. On the other hand, though, if you love your natural lashes and only want to give them a slight boost, a lash lift would be perfect for you. Eyelash extensions physically add artificial lash extensions amongst your natural lashes. Your natural lashes are still a part of the look, but just interspersed with the new extensions.  This is great for people with sparse or short natural lashes to boost what they’ve got to the next level!

Customization

Eyelash extensions also have ample opportunities for customization to your specific wants and needs. You and your lash artist can decide on color, length, thickness, and curl level of your extensions to create the perfect look for you.  You can’t do that as easily with a lash lift, which is something to keep in mind when choosing between the two. You can always pair a lash lift with lash tinting services to get a bit more color.

Speak with Our Lash Experts for a Personalized Consultation

As you can see, choosing lash lift vs extensions depends mostly on you and what you want out of the service.  If your main focus is on a small boost that you don’t have to think or worry about, lash lift is the number one. If you want something that lasts longer and adds more length to your lashes (and you don’t mind some maintenance), eyelash extensions will give you what you want. As always, our lash experts are happy to have a consultation with you before getting started. We can help you choose the service that will work best for you and your wants & needs. Contact us to ask any other questions you still have about lash lifts vs eyelash extensions or to set up an appointment. You can also easily book an appointment online here

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

Booking an appointment is easy and can be done in a few minutes.
Forms can be filled at your closest Chic Lash Boutique or by clicking "Complete Forms".