What Is a Lash Lift?

If you’ve been tempted to give your lashes a more lasting boost than a tube of mascara can provide, you’ve likely started researching eyelash perms and turned to Google to ask, “What is a lash lift?” This popular beauty treatment has been trending for quite some time now, and for a good reason. After all, who wouldn’t want to wake up with beautiful, lifted lashes?

While eyelash lifts may be something you’re unfamiliar with, a few before and after photos can have it set in your mind that you need one ASAP. Hold on—let us fill you in on the details before you book the first available appointment. Below, we’re sharing what you should know about lash lifting, including how long a lash lift lasts and if you can get a lash lift at home.

WHAT IS A LASH LIFT?

First up: What is a lash lift? An eyelash lift, aka an eyelash perm, is a cosmetic technique performed at a beauty salon that claims to lift, curl, and define your lashes. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, this common eyelash enhancement involves coating the lashes with adhesive and curling them around rollers. Think of it as quite literally a perm for your lashes!

The AAO states that after your eyelashes are curled, chemical solutions are applied to the lashes to create a long-lasting curl. This technique gives your lashes an eye-opening effect while helping them appear long sans extensions. You’ll typically see lash lift and tint services offered together since a lift creates the illusion of length while a tint helps darken the color of your lashes, creating the illusion of more volume.

IS A LASH LIFT THE SAME AS A LASH PERM?

We already touched on this a tiny bit, but are lash lifts and eyelash perms the same thing? Generally, the two beauty terms are used interchangeably. Both are lash enhancement techniques that involve curling the lash and using chemicals to create a long-lasting curl. Some will distinguish between the two by saying a perm curls the ends of your lashes, whereas a lash lift curls the base of your lashes, which creates that lifted effect.

HOW LONG DOES A LASH LIFT LAST?

The AAO states that typically, an eyelash perm can last around one to two months. Not too bad for an appointment that usually takes about 45 minutes.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE GETTING A LASH LIFT

We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but there are potential risks to getting a lash lift. Per the AAO, lash enhancements pose health dangers that could cause problems with your eyes and vision because the technique takes place so close to the eye. It’s also important to note that there are no federal regulations for these services and that it is all dependent on the state you live in, according to the AAO.

Because of the risks, it’s a must to research the process thoroughly as well as the place you are planning to have it done beforehand, and if you decide to take that leap, only do so with the help of a professional.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU WET YOUR LASHES AFTER A LASH LIFT?

Just as you should avoid getting your hair wet immediately after getting a hair perm, the same rule applies to your lash lift. Simply put, keeping your lashes away from water, steam, and makeup products for 24 hours post-lift will help your lash shape set into place. Once a day has passed, you’re good to rock your curled lashes as you desire.

HOW MUCH IS A LASH LIFT?

As with most beauty enhancements, the cost can vary based on what state you live in, where you get the treatment done, and who is doing your lash lift. That said, the AAO states that lash perms are generally under $100. Of course, you shouldn’t make the cost your deciding factor. Go to a trusted professional with plenty of experience.

CAN YOU GET A LASH LIFT AT HOME?

While you shouldn’t attempt to do a lash lift at home, you can use eye makeup to help fake the appearance of an eyelash lift. If you’re curious about the effects of a lash lift or simply don’t want to commit to having the treatment, head over to our article, How to Get a Lash Lift Effect, for our step-by-step tutorial on using mascara and eyeliner to your (and your lashes’) advantage. All you’ll need is the L’Oréal Paris Unlimited Lash Lifting and Lengthening Washable Mascara and L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Waterproof, Up to 24HR Pencil Eyeliner in Black.

Now that you’ve finished our lesson on lash lifts, you may be curious about other semi-permanent beauty enhancements. Check out our articles, Your Intro to Eyebrow Tinting: Cost, Lasting Power, and More and What Is Eyebrow Lamination? Learn About the Latest Brow Trend to keep your beauty education going.