A good lash day always leads to a good makeup day! Lashes are having a moment in the beauty industry and it’s all about getting fuller, longer and more perfect lashes. Some prefer a dramatic falsies look with lash extensions while some girls prefer a lifted, natural set with the help of a lash lift. Whatever it may be, girls are now including lash upkeep into their routine.
The appeal of something like lash extensions or a lash lift is how easy they make getting ready. They cut out a lot of time in the morning and allow you to walk out the door fresh faced and looking like your best. Who wouldn’t want that?! If you love the sound of this but don’t want the dramatic look or upkeep of lash extensions… you could be a great candidate for a keratin lash lift!
A keratin lash lift is a perm for your eyelashes. It involves a chemical solution that’s applied to your lashes that curls them. This sounds intense, especially using chemicals that close to your eyes but a lash lift is gentle and eye safe.
A lash lift is a great alternative to lash extensions because it’s cheaper, less maintenance and it won’t ruin your natural lashes. Whether you have straight, stubborn lashes that won’t hold a curl or you’re looking to boost your natural lashes, a lash lift will give you great results.
Break up with your lash curler and get ready…here’s everything you need to know about Keratin Lash Lifts.
What is a keratin lash lift?
A keratin lash lift is just like a perm for your eyelashes!
It’s a semi-permanent method to curl your lashes with a chemical solution just like how a perm would curl your hair. This chemical solution is eye safe, gentle and it’s only on your lashes for around 6 to 12 minutes. A lash lift is a great way to add some oomph to your lashes and it’s a much cheaper alternative to lash extensions. Plus it gives a more natural look without damaging your natural lashes.
If you have stubborn lashes that won’t hold a curl, a lash lift is the answer to all your problems. Seriously. It will curl your lashes for around 2 months and speed up your morning makeup routine. You will love how your mascara looks and it won’t damage your eyelashes.
Learn everything about hybrid lashes vs classic vs volume lashes here.
How much does a lash lift cost?
This all depends where you go but generally anywhere from $75-$110 is the standard going rate. Lash lifts are much cheaper than lash extensions which run around $200 for the initial set and up to $90 to fill them every two weeks.
Some places offer a lash tint as an add on service to your lash lift. A lash tint consists of dying your eyelashes darker and this service is done while you are getting your lash lift. Lot’s of girls like to go for a lash lift and tint before a vacation so they don’t have to worry about makeup and mascara.
Wherever you decide to go, you will want to do your research and look at before and after photos. When lash lifts aren’t done correctly you can lose lashes or be left with wayward lashes pointing out in every direction for the next 2 months.
At the end of the day you get what you pay for so make sure to do your research before you choose a place! When I got mine I went to the cheapest place and I left with lashes pointing in every direction. My lash lift definitely made my lashes look better but so many of them looked like ‘Ls.’ I would get one again but I would definitely do better research before!
How long does it take?
A lash lift can take around 45 minutes to an hour. If you choose to get a lash tint at the same time, it may take a little longer. But, it’s a great option if you have light lashes or want to forgo mascara, and it’ll last about 3 weeks! Overall, a lash lift is a pretty relaxing experience and many people fall asleep while they’re getting it done.
Generally, the hour will include 4 steps:
- First, a lash lift starts with applying eye pads to separate your bottom lashes from the top ones.
- Then, once your lashes are cleaned, an adhesive is applied on your top lashes to brush them up onto the shield that gives them the curled shape.
- Once that is applied the perm solution is applied to the base of the lash for around 6-12 minutes depending on how thick and dense your lashes are.
- To finish it off, a setting solution is applied to your lashes to help them hold their new, curled shape.
How to prepare for a keratin lash lift?
The already low maintenance lash lift gets even better because there is no preparation necessary! On the day of, you’ll want to show up to your appointment makeup free but that’s it. If you’re wanting a more dramatic result, starting using a lash serum a month prior to your lash lift for even longer lashes.
Lash serums take about a month or two to see growth so remember that if you decide to use one! Once your lashes are lifted they will look longer so pairing it with a lash serum will give you falsie-esque results. If you are one of the lucky people that already has long lashes, forego the lash serum and just go in for the lift.
Once your lashes are lifted, the first 24 hours are crucial so here are some tips:
- No mascara.
- Avoid getting your lashes wet. If they get wet they will lose their curl.
- Avoid steam or humidity.
- It’s good practice to wait after the 24 hours are up to shower.
Once the 24 hours are up, the curl on your lashes is set and you are free to shower and wash your face as you normally would.
What else should I know about lash lifts?
A ‘Keratin’ lash lift is just a selling point and any ‘lash lift’ will give you the same results. Most lash lifts will include a keratin treatment regardless if it has the name in the service or not. So, if one salon calls it a lash lift and one calls it a keratin lash lift, they’re likely still the same service. Both will follow the same process and end with semi-permanent curled lashes.
Be careful with using oil on your lashes! Some places recommend it to nourish your lashes but oil breaks down the chemical solution causing your lashes to lose their curl. Castor oil can help to grow your lashes but keep that on the base eyelashes.
A lash lift should last 8-10 weeks. If you notice that it lasted less time then that, look at what skincare, and mascara you’re using. Avoid heavy oils and waterproof mascara to get the most out of your lash lift!
Final Thoughts
If you want a low maintenance way to add some more oomph to your lashes without damaging them, you are a great candidate for a lash lift. If you have straight but long lashes you will love a lash lift! So many people are great candidates for lash lifts and you cannot beat their low maintenance and natural glam! So, if you’re planning on getting one, get prepared to be obsessed, and receive tons of compliments on your new lashes.
Just remember to do your research before you pick a place! Unlike dying your hair or getting lash extensions there is no upkeep required for a lash lift. Once the 8 weeks are over, your lashes will return to their natural, relaxed state.
If you want to take a break you can and it won’t affect your natural lashes. If you want a more dramatic look you can go try lash extensions no problem. Or, if you fall in love with the outcome and low maintenance, you can get a lash lift as often as every 7 weeks to maintain your curled lashes. The best part about a keratin lash lift is how low maintenance and flexible they are, so enjoy and decide!
If a lash lift is too much commitment for you, take a look at our guide on applying magnetic lashes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes a Good Curling Iron for Thick Hair?
Curling irons for thick hair must have a high-temperature setting (heat up to at least 400F) to hold thick hair into curls all-day if not for a few days!
The best curling irons for thick hair use an advanced ionic or infrared technology to reduce frizz and keep your hair moisturized.
What size barrel is best for thick hair?
For thick hair, a curling iron with a barrel sized 1.5 inches is the most suitable option for everyday use.
Depending on your desired hairstyle, you can section your hair into smaller or thicker sections to create both tight and loose curls.
How do you make curls last all day with thick hair?
Use a mousse and heat protectant before you blow-dry in order to give the hair more hold. Prepping with a setting spray is also great for locking in your curls. Many of them offer heat protection, too!
Can you use mascara with a lash lift?
Yes! After the first 24 hours, you are free to wear whatever makeup you’d like! Generally, you will want to avoid any waterproof mascara. Waterproof mascara will cause your lashes to fall straight so you won’t get the full 8-10 weeks of curled lashes. Your mascara will look even better once you’ve got a lash lift so prepare to be wildly obsessed.
Do lash lifts ruin eyelashes?
If done correctly, no. This is why a keratin lash lift is so much better than lash extensions! Lashes shed daily and after you get a lash lift they will continue to do so. After you hit the 8 to 10 week mark, your lashes will return to their normal, relaxed state.
After the 8 weeks, your lashes will likely be healthier because you’ve given them a break from your lash curler. Once you’ve hit the 8 week mark and your lashes have relaxed you can schedule another lash lift appointment.
How do you remove mascara after eyelash lift?
After a lash lift you can remove mascara the same way you did before. The only thing you want to avoid is using any type of oil or oil cleanser on your lashes. Oil breaks down the solution on your lashes, causing you to lose your curl faster. So, find a mascara that’s easy to remove and use a cream cleanser or micellar water to remove any eye makeup and mascara.