Lash lift, lash tint, lash extensions, the list goes on. But how do you know which lash treatment is best for you? If you are looking to find out more information about a lash lift treatment then you are certainly in the right place. Read on to find out exactly what a lash lift is and all you need to know.
A lash lift is a natural eyelash treatment, almost like a perm for your eyelashes. A lash lift is done by using a special chemical solution that sets the shape of the natural eyelashes. This treatment will create the look of longer, fuller, and lifted eyelashes which makes eyes appear less tired and more youthful. There is low to zero maintenance after this treatment with no need to wear mascara. . This is a fantastic alternative to eyelash extensions and a great way of enhancing your natural beauty.
So now you know exactly what a lash lift is, read on to find out all you need to know and decide for yourself, is it really worth it?
What Is A Lash Lift?
A lash lift is a natural, semi-permanent eyelash treatment that curls and lifts the natural eyelashes, giving an appearance of longer, fuller lashes that will make your eyes appear more open and looking more youthful. Say goodbye to mascara and those dreaded panda eyes with low to zero maintenance.
No mascara. No extensions. No maintenance. Sounds too good to be true right?
How Do I Prepare For A Lash Lift?
Before any Lash Lift treatment can go ahead, a patch test must be carried out. This would typically be done up to 48 hours prior to the treatment.
A patch test needs to be carried out before any lash lifting treatment takes place. This is to identify if you have any sensitivity/ allergic reaction to any of the products used. A Lash Lift treatment cannot be carried out if there is any adverse reaction.
Your lash lift technician should explain in detail what will happen at your patch test appointment but I have added it on this blog as a reminder;
During a lash lift patch test, the following will happen:
- The area of skin to be tested will be cleansed (usually behind the ear or in the crease of the arm).
- A small amount of lifting lotion, fixing lotion, and adhesive will be applied to the 3 different areas.
- A small amount of eyelash tint will be applied behind the opposite ear.
- Allow drying time.
- You will then be advised to leave on the skin for 24 hours.
- If no reaction, you can remove all products.
Hopefully, there would be no reaction and your planned lash lift treatment can go ahead. Before your appointment it is important to follow these instructions so you get the most from your treatment with optimal results:
- Arrive at your appointment make-up-free. Doing this will allow your therapist o get to work right away instead of trying to remove stubborn mascara, resulting in rubbing of your eyes and the risk of causing irritation.
- Avoid using any curling products on your eyelashes for the week leading up to your treatment.
- Avoid wearing waterproof mascara on the lead up to your appointment.
- If you have any allergies and feel it is affecting the eye area, get in touch with your lash lift technician.
What Happens During A Lash Lift?
Ok, so if you have never had a lash lift treatment before you may be wondering, how is this treatment done. Will I be sitting down? Will I be Lying on my back? Will my eyes be opened or closed? If you are asking yourself any of these questions then please read on.
Believe it or not but a lash lift treatment is a very relaxing treatment. Or its should be… Imagine this; soft relaxing music, a warm room and comfortable surroundings. This is just exactly how it should be.
I have broken down the treatment for you to give you a better understanding step-by-step what should happen throughout a lash lift treatment:
- Once the correct consultation forms are completed you would then remove any contact lenses and store them away safely.
- Get yourself comfortable on the beauty chair or bed.
- The eye area will be cleansed and any eye make-up removed using an oil-free make-up remover.
- With eyes open, the under-eye pad will be placed on the skin under the eye to secure down the bottom lashes – this may feel cold and wet.
- You would then gently close the eyes. The selected shield would then be applied close to the lash line on the upper eyelid using the adhesive.
- Each eyelash is then pulled back, one-by-one separating lashes in an orderly position so every eyelash is even and secure on the shield.
- Steps 1-4 are carried out – Lift – Volume – Colour Boost – Nourish
- All the products including the shields and under-eye pads are then removed from the eyes.
- Gently open your eyes and enjoy your new lash lift.
How Often Should You Get A Lash Lift?
A lash lift begins to drop back to its natural state after about 6 – 8 weeks so it is advised that having a fresh lash lift done around the 6-8-week mark will give you an appearance of longer, fuller lashes again.
Sometimes, different things can affect how long your lash lift will last, for example going swimming in chlorine or the use of heat treatments. If you find your lashes drop sooner than the 6-8 week mark then you may have your lashes lifted again but there would need to be a minimum of 4-5 weeks from the previous treatment.
If all homecare and aftercare tips are followed then there should be no issue. Personally, I know my own clients have sometimes got a great curl still after the 8 week mark.
How Do I Maintain A Lash Lift?
So although a lash lift is a very low maintenance procedure, there is a little extra care required over the first 24-48hrs whilst the lift is still settling into place and a few tips to help you get the longest results.
Aftercare instructions:
- Be gentle with your lashes; no rubbing.
- Do not get your lashes wet for the first 24 hrs
- Do not use harsh products on your eyes/lashes
- Use of Sauna/Steam is possible after 24hrs but may weaken the effect of the lift
- No eye make-up for 24 hours
- Do not use eyelash curlers
- Avoid waterproof mascara’s
- Swimming should be avoided for at least 24hrs
- No other facial beauty treatments for 24hrs
Remember, the lash lift procedure is similar to a hair perm, and as such the hair must be kept well-nourished and treated delicately to avoid breakage/weakening.
Here are some maintenance tips that I strongly recommend:
- Using gentle soap-free products around the eyes
- Daily use of a lash nourishing serum/conditioner
- Pat gently to dry
- Be aware that swimming can weaken the lift quicker.
By following these easy steps, this will ensure you get the best from your lash lift.
How Long Does A Lash Lift Last?
A lash lift should last 6-8 weeks with very minimal to no maintenance within this period, although it can vary from person to person. After 6-8 weeks you would then have another lash lift treatment to repeat the process to curl any new lashes that have grown in.
The length of time will vary form person to person depending on the condition of the natural eyelashes and their lash cycle. Some situations may cause the eyelashes to drop or uncurl prematurely which include swimming and the use of harsh products on the eye area.
Does A Lash Lift Damage Your Natural Eyelashes?
A lash lift does not damage the natural eyelashes if the treatment is carried out correctly by a trained professional. Because a lash lift is a natural eyelash treatment, and with the majority of the products used containing nourishing ingredients, this should be gentle on the eyelashes. This treatment will create the look of longer, fuller, and lifted eyelashes which makes eyes appear less tired and more youthful.
A lash lift has many benefits and is not damaging to the eyelashes in any way when done correctly although there are some factors that may affect the result of the treatment:
- Natural eyelash condition – oily lashes may not achieve the same lift whereas dry, brittle lashes can be over-processed causing damage. This is for your lash lift technician to know and carry out the procedure safely and effectively.
- Aftercare and homecare instructions must be followed. If you do not keep your eyelashes nourished after a lash lift then they may become dry and dehydrated causing them to snap or not grow back to their best
- If the treatment is done incorrectly and the timings are not followed precisely by your lash lift technician then this may lead to damage of the natural eyelashes. Please do your research on your chosen eyelash technician before you book yourself a lash lift treatment to ensure they hold the correct qualifications.
All in all a lash lift is a very safe and relaxing procedure and once you have had your first treatment you will probably ask yourself why you have not tried it before.
Can You Still Wear Mascara With A Lash Lift?
It is completely safe to wear mascara with a lash lift, although, your very own natural lashes will appear much darker, fuller and longer so there should be no need to.
If you are anything like me, before lash lifts, the thought of not wearing mascara would frighten me. I mean, how could I go out without mascara on? Surely people would notice my eyes looking so tired? Then, I found a new love for a lash lift!
It might take you a few days to get used to not wearing mascara but after this you will be totally loving how quick your morning regime is! I personally still pop a little mascara on my lower lashes but definitely don’t need this on the top.
If you wish to enhance your results further for say a special occasion then, certainly apply some mascara but just be mindful when removing not to over rub your eyelashes as this may cause breakage or irritation. Also please allow 48 hours from the treatment before applying mascara.
Is A Lash Lift Worth it?
I 100% love a lash lift and I always recommend this to my clients. This treatment is definitely up there with one of my favourite treatments to carry out on clients and to have myself. Its such a lovely relaxing treatment for the client and the therapist and the results are outstanding.
No mascara. No extensions. No maintenance. Beautiful lashes. What else could a girl ask for?!