Lash Talk: Lift vs Extensions
Are you looking for a way to make your lashes look fuller and longer — or looking for a way to minimise your morning makeup routine? Lash Extensions and Lash Lifts can make a huge difference in adding volume and depth to your lashes. Not sure which treatment is right for you? We break down and compare each treatment below!
The Basics
Eyelash Extensions are made up of materials including mink or synthetic. The major difference between extensions and a lift is that eyelash extensions involve the bonding of individual lashes to your natural lashes with the help of a medical grade adhesive whereas a Lash Lift involves the natural curling and perming of your lashes with silicone rods to make them appear longer and fuller. So, the lash lifts give an enhanced look to your natural lashes while the eyelash extensions can be used for a fuller effect.
The Process
Lash Lifting uses silicone rods instead of traditional perming rollers to give more of a lifting effect from the base of the eyelash to the tip. There are different sized silicone rods depending on your particular eye shape and desired look. A solution is applied that changes the bonds of the lash hairs permanently, to reform them. 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.
Lash Extensions come in a variety of fibres, the most common of these being 'Synthetic Mink' due to it being the softest and most natural feeling. A Classic Lash application involves attaching a single lash extension to each natural lash using lash glue. Then there are Russian Volume Lashes, also known as 2D-8D lashes, where 2-8 super fine extensions attach to each individual natural eyelash. Extensions come in many different lash curl, lengths and thicknesses which all play an important factor in how a finished set of lashes will look.
Appointment Duration
The process of lash extensions can take up to 2 hours for the initial treatment and 45 minutes for infills. A Lash Lift appointment takes around 45 minutes with no upkeep appointments.
How Long Will They Last?
A lift can last 6-12 weeks, after which you will need to get your lashes lifted again. Extensions last 3-4 weeks and can be maintained over time with infills.
The Cost
Check out our Services Menu here for pricing :)
Aftercare
Initial aftercare for both treatments is quite similar. You must NOT wet your lashes for 24-48 hours after your treatment. After the initial 48 hours, a lash lift can be treated the same as you would your natural lashes. Eyelash extensions require much more upkeep and maintenance than lash lifts do. Usually, we recommend getting a re-lash or infill appointment every 2-4 weeks. In the meantime make sure you wash your lashes daily (ask Abby about our lash cleanser). Brushing out and keeping your lashes clean is a must for having long lasting extensions. DO NOT WEAR MASCARA! Avoid any products directly on the lashes and NO picking or pulling out your extensions, as this will cause permanent damage to your natural lash.
Ultimately, choosing a lash lift vs extensions depends mostly on you and what you want out of the service! If your main focus is on a subtle boost that you don’t have to think or fuss over, a lash lift is for you. If you want something adds more volume and length to your lashes (and you don’t mind some maintenance), eyelash extensions will give you what you want.
