Which is better: Lash Lift or Lash Extension?
Is it better to have eyelash extensions or eyelash lifts?
So, you're debating whether to have lash extensions or a lash lift? What is the distinction? Which is the better option? Is it possible to pick a clear winner? It turns out that it's complicated - and we're here to provide you with all the details so you can make the best decision possible about which treatment is right for you.
The first thing to understand is that these are two completely distinct procedures.
Lash Extensions
Lash extensions entail adding something to your natural lashes to enhance them (synthetic fibers with a silk or mink finish - no animal products here), giving them the appearance of being longer and curlier than they are. This means that even if you have incredibly fine, super sparse, short little lashes we can make them appear quite great. Although we never want to overdo it, there are some incredible strategies for enhancing your lash look with volume lashes, different curls, and style.
Lash Lifts
Lash lifts, on the other hand, rely on natural lashes that have their structure altered using a chemical technique and then infused with keratin to give them a lifted/curled look. The outcome is nearly entirely determined by the state of your natural lashes to begin with. It can be tinted for increased effect, which we recommend the majority of the time (unless your lashes are jet black). Even people with dark lashes will notice that the last few mm are naturally paler, therefore a tint might create the appearance of longer lashes.
Which one is better for you?
A lift can usually offer you great effects if your lashes are long and full. The results can be a touch unimpressive if your lashes are shorter, finer, or you just don't have very much naturally. Yes, they'll be curlier and darker if you color them, but if you don't have a lot of natural lashes, this may not be the best solution for you.
So, in terms of effect, lash extensions can be significantly more dramatic/dark than lifts (if that's the look you want), and special effects like staggered/Kim k, doll eye, cat eye, and so on can be achieved. You're limited with lifts because we can only do so much with your natural lashes — curl them upwards and darken them with a tint. We occasionally get requests for a 'cat-eye effect' with a lash lift, however, this is just not possible because we can't make your natural lashes 'longer' on the ends without extensions. The lift entails curling your lashes upwards onto a rod, and while the angle of curl can be customized (typically dependent on the length of your lashes), we can't shape or style your lashes with a lift.
Lifts are easier to maintain than extensions because they last a little longer (about 5/6 weeks vs. 3 weeks for extensions) and you don't have to be as careful with makeup and oily things. You can get a lift and put whatever you want on them (after waiting 24 hours for it to set correctly) and vigorously remove it – oily makeup remover, sticky pot eyeliner, mascara, etc.
When wearing lash extensions, stay away from oily makeup or remover, anything sticky (gel pot eyeliner is a no-no! ), and mascara is a no-no if you have volume lashes. If you want to wear a lot of eyeshadow, a lift is generally a better choice. Most individuals who enjoy lash extensions (i.e. those who have them only once!) don't mind the upkeep - it's a lovely way to unwind and take a nap while being glammed up – but for others, having to do it every few weeks is too much trouble.
Do both of these treatments work for everyone?
No, not always. Lifts simply do not work for about 1% of our clients (even with a repeat attempt). It's unique, and our sources attribute it to hormonal changes that impact the hair structure and ability to absorb solutions. Some drugs, such as Accutane, prevent a lift from being performed because it compromises the hair and skin's integrity, causing the eyelashes to frizzle often. Thyroid drugs might cause the lash lift to stop working. Extensions would be preferable in these situations.
Similarly, eyelash extensions will fall out in roughly 1% of clients — we believe this is due to high oil levels in the hair, which prevent the glue from attaching properly. People with oily skin have a harder time keeping lash extensions in place than others. This can usually be avoided by washing extensions on a regular basis, but in some circumstances, a lift will be a preferable solution.
The Verdict
A lash lift doesn't do anything for those people who have extremely mediocre natural eyelashes — lash extensions are the way to go. If you have longer, thicker lashes, you should probably vary between extensions and lifts depending on what you want to wear. They're both fantastic procedures that can completely transform the appearance of your face. They each have their own niche, and I believe they're both here to stay!
Still undecided and in need of guidance? We can assist you to decide at any time by calling sending us an email at info@pmu-lashes-aesthetics.com or book here.