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Lash Lift Vs. Lash Extensions: Which Treatment Is Right For You

Tress obsessed … It goes without saying. But that obsession extends all the way down to the tips of our shiny, black lashes.

Because, we believe that long, full lashes can elevate any look. Mascara certainly gets the job done – and quick. But between itchy allergy eyes and shear laziness (yes, we said it), we’re keen on exploring other less options.

Enter our favorite, instant beauty hacks: the lash lift and lash extension. Though different in concept and aesthetic, each service renders lashes fuller – and more exotic.

Here, we touch on the highs and lows of each service, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

The Lash Lift

Imagine waking up day after day with lashes that look as if they’ve been perfectly curled – and coated in the most perfect, clump-free black mascara. That reality can be yours, thanks to the much-lauded lash lift and tint. But what even is a lash lift – and how long will it last?

One way to think of a lash lift is a perm for your lashes. “A lash lift curls your lash from base to tip so that you can see the full length,” Clementina Richardson, celebrity lash expert, tells Harper’s Bazaar. All lashes have a natural shape; the lash lift process uses a tiny curling rod plus lifting solution to enhance that shape.

“Every treatment begins with a thorough consultation to determine what kind of lash style you are looking to achieve,” Jaimineey Patel, head of training at Blink Brow Bar London, tells Harper’s Bazaar. “Based on your answers, your therapist will then pick a suitable curling rod size to shape the lashes.”

From start to finish, the process can take from 45-60 minutes, with results lasting between four and six weeks (depending on how fast your lashes grow.

Total investment: $110-$175

Lash Extensions

When it comes to lash extensions, people often fall into one of two camps: diehard enthusiast or scathing critic. This is because the results are dramatic – with the price tag and upkeep being equally so. But you might be asking yourself, what even are eyelash extensions?

Eyelash extensions are fibers that attached to your natural lash in order to make them appear longer and fuller. The fibers vary and can be made from mink, silk or synthetic fibers.

“Lash extensions are carefully applied one at a time (typically 80-140 per eye) using a specially formulated, semi-permanent glue that will not irritate or damage the natural lash,” Clementina Richardson, New York City lash stylist tells Byrdie.

From start to finish, the entire process takes 90 to 180 minutes.

Total investment: $150-$500

But … what are the pros and cons?

A lash lift and tint is a simple procedure – with a price tag that’s significantly lower than lash that of lash extensions. Additionally, results can last up-to six weeks. Conversely, your lash extensions will need to be filled every three weeks.

But not everyone is up for a chemical procedure on their lash line – and that’s how a lash lift achieves its noteworthy results. And it must be said: extensions will give results far more dramatic than those of a lift.

The bottom line

If you’re looking for a lash enhancement service that requires less time, money and touts natural looking results, opt for a lash lift.

But, if you’re not intimidated by the steep price, once monthly fills and are looking for a big wow factor, extensions are right for you.

All in all, we find that we fall under the lash lift camp … but we can definitely admire a full set of fluffy, mink lashes, too.