Which is better: a lash lift or lash extensions?

Are you torn between choosing a lash lift vs lash extensions? If your goal is to achieve fuller-looking lashes, you're on the right track – but it’s essential to understand the key differences between these two treatments first.

As the lash expert Loreta Jasilionyte explains, “If you want a natural look, a lash lift is the better option, while eyelash extensions are ideal if you’re going for a more dramatic or glamorous look.”

Keep reading to discover more about these treatments and determine

What is a lash lift?

A lash lift is a semi-permanent cosmetic treatment that intensifies the natural shape of your eyelashes by curling them upward. Unlike eyelash extensions, a lash lift doesn’t require the specialist to add artificial lashes. Instead, this method uses a lifting solution to create a longer, fuller, and more defined appearance. The results can last 6 to 8 weeks and work well for those who prefer a low-maintenance, natural look.

What are eyelash extensions?

Eyelash extensions are a beauty treatment where synthetic, silk, or mink lashes are carefully attached to your natural lashes using lash adhesive. Unlike a lash lift, this process requires more resources but delivers outstanding results by adding volume, length, and thickness for a bold, dramatic look. With proper care, eyelash extensions can last 4 to 6 weeks, although regular corrections are needed to maintain their appearance.

Lash lift vs. lash extensions

When picking between lash extensions vs lash lift, you first should ask yourself what appearance you’re aiming for. A lash lift enhances your natural look, requiring minimal maintenance; however, lash extensions help your lashes stand out even more, but to upkeep them, you will need more effort.

To help you make an informed decision, we have outlined the main differences between a lash lift and lash extensions right below:

Natural look:

If you’re deciding whether to go with a lash lift vs extensions to enhance your natural look, then the best solution is a lash lift. While skilled professionals can create subtle extensions, a lash lift highlights your natural lashes without the need for gluing synthetic ones.

Lash extensions aren't the best choice for a natural look because, even if done professionally, they often add extra weight. Although this makes your eyelashes look thicker, the overall look is less organic compared to lash lifts.

Maintenance:

If you are aiming for minimal effort but a noticeable effect, lash lifts are what you’re looking for. To help the result last for 2 months, all you need to do is regularly apply serum like Lash Wizard Eyelash Serum to keep lashes hydrated and also brush them.

In the meantime, eyelash extensions require more maintenance, including regular brushing, avoiding oil-based cleansers, sleeping on the back, washing them after a workout or a swimming pool, and more. If you fully commit to the care routine, you may expect lash extensions to last up to 6 weeks.

Cost:

When it comes to beauty treatments, it’s easy to overlook the price tag, right, ladies? But if you're looking to save money while still achieving a polished look, a lash lift is a great option. It costs up to £40 and lasts for an impressive 8 weeks, giving you naturally long and beautiful lashes.

On the other hand, the price of eyelash extensions is less budget-friendly, starting at £70 and going up to £110 if you opt for extras like diamonds. Plus, they tend to last around six weeks, making them a shorter-lasting investment compared to a lash lift.

Treatment process:

During a lash lift treatment, your lashes are carefully coated with adhesive, lifting lotions, and tint to enhance their appearance. Specialized tools, like lash lift shields and a small brush, are used to create a soft, natural look. Since multiple products are applied to one of the most sensitive areas of your body, the process requires a gentle and precise touch.

Likewise, adding eyelash extensions requires a skilled specialist. The professional carefully applies each extension using a semi-permanent adhesive with precision, ensuring they blend with your lashes. The whole treatment can take from 1.5 hours, depending on the complexity of your desired result.

Lash lift and eyelash extensions safety

Whether you choose a lash lift or extensions, it’s important to remember how delicate the area around your eyes is and handle it with care. To help you achieve and maintain a flawless look, we’ve outlined essential safety tips to follow during lash treatments:

• Choose a certified specialist. To ensure you’re in good hands, you should first pick a skilled specialist with positive reviews and a spotless past.

• Stay aware of allergies. During lash treatments, cosmetic specialists use multiple substances. To prevent serious medical consequences, make sure you inform the specialist about possible allergic reactions.

• Avoid contact with water. For both extensions and lash lifts, avoid water, steam, or heavy sweat for at least the first 24 hours to let the adhesives set properly.

• Stick to aftercare instructions. Follow provided instructions by your cosmetic technician to maintain splendid eyelashes for longer and prevent irritation to your eyes.

What is more damaging, lash lift or lash extensions?

Although both, a lash lift and extensions, include chemical substances during the procedure, eyelash extensions are considered to be more damaging. Extensions involve attaching synthetic lashes with a semi-permament adhesive which can weaken your natural lashes over time. Additionally, the weight of fake lashes may affect natural ones by thinning them and leading to breakage.

A lash lift can sometimes cause irritation or allergic reactions, but it’s a gentler treatment since it doesn’t involve adding anything to your natural lashes, just a few chemicals. That said, it’s super important to pick a skilled specialist. Experts like Dr. Bajic warn that lash tints haven’t been fully studied yet: “There’s a lot we still don’t know, and we’re only going to figure out later on if it’s a bad idea or not, especially when it comes to applying chemicals right around our eyes.”

Which is better, lash lift or lash extension?

Choosing between a lash lift and lash extensions is a lot like picking wine – it all depends on your taste. A lash tint is a superb solution for those looking to enhance the natural look of their eyelashes. The treatment subtly highlights your eyes, not requiring heaps of effort to upkeep the flawless appearance.

In the meantime, eyelash extensions are perfect if you’re after a bold, bombshell vibe. With the help of a skilled technician and a few hours of work, your lashes gain a dramatic look, becoming thicker and longer.

However, keep in mind that both treatments use chemical products and need proper aftercare to keep your lashes looking flawless for weeks. It also wouldn’t hurt if you made a brief break after each lash treatment and spoil your eyelashes with serums.