Lash lift vs lash extensions: What's the Difference?

If you are unsure to choose between Lash extensions vs lash lifts, you are not alone, as this is a common question.

While in lash extension you need fake lashes to be glued on top of your lash line, in lash lifting no fake lashes are involved and you “perm” your lashes.

Who Can Do?

Everybody can apply eyelash extensions, but in lash lifts, you can do it only if you already have long natural lashes.

In eyelash extensions your lashes will look fuller and sometimes it can look fake if you exaggerate on the volume.

With lash lifts, you don’t have this problem, as your straight natural lashes will be boosted with a nice curl. They will look longer, curler and lifted.

Lash lift is ideal if you want to have natural long lash instead of the dramatic look an eyelash extensions can offer.

Lash Lift vs Lash Extensions: What To Choose?

lash lift vs lash extensions Main Differences

With eyelash extensions, you use a glue to connect lashes on top of your lash line, while in lash lifts the professional uses a chemical to curl and lift natural lashes.

Both treatments are safe if done correctly but some people may not get along with lash extensions.

Firstly, with lash extension you need to pay more attention to manutention, as you have to do it more often than with lash lift.

For this reason,eyelash lifts are considered to be more practical for those who tried both procedures, once you are dealing with your own natural lashes.

People also related that eyelash lifts look like natural lashes and are more comfortable, as lash extensions may be heavy, cause traction and alopecia.

Even though (if not done correctly) both can damage the natural lashes, people with lash lifts reported they prefer it.

There are testimonials of people saying that lash extensions can cause damage given to the glue, and lack of manutention.

The Process

To apply lash extensions, it can take a few hours while with lash lifting, it can be done in a few minutes.

While lash extensions should be glued with a medical grade adhesive, in lash lifting the professional applies the perm in the middle of the lash.

It should not be placed all the way to the tip as it can cause lash split ends.

Duration

While eyelash extensions (false eyelashes) can take on average four weeks, it is possible to have lash extensions for about 8 weeks, depending on your lash growth cycle and how fast your lashes fall.

Maintenance

They have similar maintenance rules, you should wait 48 hours before wetting the lashes, avoid swimming, sweating, exercising and makeup.

For longer duration, be gentle, no rubbing and don’t use waterproof eye makeup.

But the story is a bit different for touch ups.

Touch Up

For eyelash extensions, some beauty clinics recommend touch ups every 2 to 3 weeks.

With eyelash lift, you’ll have to wait the curled lashes to get back to normal in order to repeat the process.

Maintenance lash lifts:

For lash lifts, you don’t need touch ups, all you need to do is to wait around 8 weeks to re-do the treatment.

For some people with sensitive lashes, it is recommended to wait even three months.

Style & Customization

With lash lift there are no customization options, unless you opt to lash tint it, all you do is to curl and along your lashes.

With eyelash extensions, on the other hand, you can choose from length, volume, colors, and many other forms of customization.

Wearing Makeup

You can wear makeup in both treatments but it is better to avoid waterproof mascara.

Even though you don’t really need to wear makeup, people have reported that with eyelash lift you can be more relaxed to use it.

With eyelash extensions, if you wear too much heavy makeup you take the risk to have the lashes falling, so it is better to use it with moderation.

Allergies

In both cases, it is possible to develop an allergy which can cause redness, itching, and even inflammation.

Make sure to look for a studio that has excellent recommendations, visit the clinic before, and check out if you like the conditions.

Additionally, remember to take proper care, keeping them clean and booking additional manutention appointments-

Which is better: lash lift or lash extensions?

So far you have loads of information to analyze and make the conclusion based on your biotype and lifestyle.

At the end of the day, it all depends on your eyelash type, for example, if you already have long lashes and want to make your eyes pop, but don’t want a dramatic effect, lash lifting will look natural.

If your lashes apply for lash lifting, it is also more practical and lasts longer. If your lashes are short, then you will need to stick with lash extensions.

Pros & Cons

To help you further with your decision, let’s take a look at the pros and cons, lash lift vs lash extensions.

Lash Lift Pros

Makes your eyes look bigger, with natural long lashes
It takes longer than lash extensions (2.5 to 3 months)
It is practical, don’t need touch ups
Easy maintenance
It is comfortable
You can wear mascara
It is quickly done

Lash Lift Cons

You cannot do lift treatments too often
It is only suitable if you already have full long lashes
May cause allergies

Eyelash Extension Pros

You have a variety of styles, sizes, volume, colors, etc.
Can give you a bold and dramatic look
You don’t need to wear mascara

Eyelash Extension Cons

eyelash extensions require more manutention
Can be uncomfortable and heavy
Look like artificial lashes
May cause allergies
Better no to use eye mascara
May take hours to be completed and is tiring
lash extensions require more attention and more care and a special cleaning routine

Lash Lift vs Lash Extensions Q&A

1. Are Lash Lifts Cheaper Than Extensions?

Normally, lash lift is more affordable than eyelash extensions, and can cost around $50 and $100, depending on your area.

2. Do Lash Lifts Damage Your Eyelashes?

Be careful with lash lifts because if you do it too often, you may damage your eyelashes.

It is easy to get addicted to your new look but keep in mind that you are applying a chemical to your lashes, so you should do it with caution.

3. Can You Still Use Mascara With A Lash Lift and Eyelash Extension?

You can definitely wear mascara on both procedures. But it is better to avoid it.

4. Which Is Safer, Lash Lift Or Lash Extensions?

From the testimonials that I have seen on the internet, most users tend to prefer lash lifts in terms of ease to use, manutention and people reported this is less aggressive in the eyes.

But this depends on the clinic and the professional you choose, how you take care.

Of course every organism is different and there will be people who will do everything right and still have a reaction.

5. Lash Lift Or Extensions For Weddings?

If you ask my opinion, in terms of aesthetics, the wedding day is unique and if you like the glamorous style, then you can definitely go for lash extensions.

If you still like a discreet look, then lash lifting is the answer.

6. Lash Lift Or Extensions For Holiday?

If you are going on holiday, then lash lift is more practical and will look more like a natural lash.

7. Can You Get A Lash Lift And Extensions At The Same Time?

It is better not to do both at the same time and it can be very aggressive on your lashes.

Final Thoughts

In this article we compared lash lift vs lash extensions.

In the end the best option depends on the type of eyelash you have and your lifestyle.

Also, we learned that lash lifts are easier to maintain, more practical, that gives you natural lashes.

While extensions are ideal for those who are looking for drama and variation of style. However, you will still look like as if you are using false lashes.

Lash lift vs lash extensions: What’s the Difference?