Are you dreaming of longer lashes?
Kylie Jenner, Ariana Grande, and pretty much every Instagram influencer out there have made long, fluffy lashes a must-have! But, it’s not just a trend.
Longer eyelashes can change your whole face, making your eyes look bigger and more defined. A lash extension or lift is the easiest way to get the look – and to make your makeup routine a lot quicker!
Find out everything you need to know about lash extensions vs lash lift in this guide.
What Are Lash Extensions?
If you want to know the difference between lash lifts and extensions, you have to start by learning what each of them is.
Extensions are basically fibers that are attached to your natural lashes using semi-permanent glue. The fibers make your lashes look darker, longer, and fuller, leaving you with the wispy lashes you’ve been dreaming of. The fibers can be made of:
- Synthetics
- Mink
- Faux mink
- Silk fibers
Synthetics are by far the most common and popular choice, with mink lash extensions being somewhat controversial.
You can also customize your extensions, choosing different curls, lengths, and tints to perfect your look.
What Is a Lash Lift?
A lash lift is entirely different from extensions. Rather than adding anything to your lashes, you’re simply changing their shape! A lot of lashes stick out quite straight, which makes them appear shorter than they actually are.
A lash lift before and after is somewhat similar to adding mascara to your lashes. They’re longer, more defined, and fluffier.
It works by applying a semi-permanent perming solution to your lashes and curling them from base to tip. It’s an incredibly natural look and, if you want more oomph added to your lift, you can also add a lash tint.
How Are They Applied?
Because they’re both completely different methods of changing your lashes, the application process is also different. So let’s take a look at both.
Lash Lift Application Process
The first step to getting a lash lift is cleansing the eye area. Then, a silicone rod is attached to your eyelids, which looks a bit like an eye mask patch. The lashes are then curled around the rod with an adhesive to hold them in place.
The perming solution is then applied, which sets the lashes. When the curling rod is removed, the lashes will stay in that position.
Lash Extension Application Process
For lash extensions, the eye area will also be cleansed. You’ll then have a gel applied to your lower lashes to keep them out of the way, and a patch will be applied on your eyelid to help the technician see your lashes better.
The extensions from your eyelash extension kit will then be applied using glue and tweezers. Each one will be applied individually, either with one per lash or more for a super voluminous look. Once dried, the technician will remove the gels and patches and brush through your lashes with a tiny spooly.
How Long Do They Last?
No matter whether you get extensions or a lift, neither are permanent! So, unfortunately, you’ll have to get them redone every so often to keep up your look.
A lash lift will last around 6-8 weeks. Lash extensions last around 6 weeks, although if you don’t look after them, you’ll need them done more regularly.
How Long Do They Take to Apply?
If you’re weighing up extensions vs lash lift, you need to think about how long they’re going to take. Because both need to be done fairly regularly to keep them looking their best, this should be a crucial factor in your decision!
A lash lift will take around 45 minutes. A full set of extensions takes a little longer, usually around 90-180 minutes. However, follow-up appointments can take less time as you may only need refills rather than a full set.
Pros and Cons of Lash lifts
When it comes to lash lifts or extensions, it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons. The benefits of a lift include:
- Brilliant for straight lashes
- Quick application
- Long-lasting
- Fuller, longer lashes with no mascara needed
- Easier to maintain than extensions
A lash lift is a simple, effective way to get natural-looking lashes with more lift! But, there are disadvantages. These include:
- Potential damage to eyelashes (e.g., breakage) due to chemicals
- Dry eyes
Pros and Cons of Lash Extensions
There are plenty of advantages to a lash lift, but what about extensions? Extensions are incredibly popular, especially amongst celebrities and influencers. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why:
- Entirely customizable for your own look
- Pain-free application
- Virtually waterproof
- Super long, fluffy lashes
One of the main benefits of extensions is that you can create as dramatic a look as you want. While lash lifts are very natural, you can create a non-natural, intense look with extensions – just like the Kardashians! But, once again, there are disadvantages.
The main downside to extensions is the maintenance they need. If you don’t look after your lashes, they’re going to look bad pretty quickly!
Lash Extensions Vs Lash Lift
When it comes to lash extensions vs lash lift, it all depends on the look you want and how prepared you are to maintain your look. Lifts give a more natural look while extensions are more dramatic, but the latter needs a lot more upkeep than the former! If you’re unsure, remember that both are semi-permanent so that you can try them out without commitment.
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