We all know by now that “I woke up like this” is a myth, but a lash lift can help take at least one morning makeup task off your checklist. 

Getting flawless lashes can sometimes mean juggling mascara, eyelash curlers, and even false lashes and glue. All things considered, just applying and fixing your lashes can take up a significant amount of time. 

A lash lift aims to give you that curled and manicured lash look without all of the hassle. By molding your eyelashes into a lifted shape, you really can wake up looking like you’ve already completed the lash stage of your routine. 

But how does a lash lift work? We’ve created a guide to lash lifts to answer all the logistical and aftercare questions you might have about the treatment. 

What is a lash lift?

A lash lift is a beauty treatment that curls your natural lashes with a chemical or keratin solution to create a uniform look that ascends upward rather than out or down. Essentially, a lash lift is like a perm for your eyelashes. 

For most people, lashes grow out rather than up. Lashes can also grow in a number of different directions that can make the eye look confusing. To increase the aesthetic appeal of the eyelashes, a lash lift aims to take the natural lashes and curl them upward. 

One of the many benefits of a lash lift is that you can customize your look depending on your preferred lash style. There are several curl options and lengths to choose from, and you can also choose to add a tint if you want to take another step to make your lashes pop. A lash perm is similar to a lash lift, so make sure you know which service you’re getting before you book your appointment.

How long does a lash lift last?

A typical lash lift will last for about four to eight weeks. This number can vary based on aftercare, the strength of your lashes, and how fast your lashes grow. Just like you have to water a plant to keep it strong and healthy, you need to take care of your lashes after a lift treatment. 

Investing in lash oil can help keep the treated eyelashes strong after treatment. Removing eye makeup at the end of the day, cleansing your face, and regularly brushing your lashes can also help keep them nourished and healthy. All of these steps can help increase the longevity of the treatment and keep that lifted, glamorous look on the lash. 

How can I prepare for my lash lift appointment?

To prepare your eyelashes for the lift, you should stop wearing eye makeup, specifically mascara, for a few days leading up to the appointment. You’ll want to arrive with clean, relaxed lashes that haven’t been pushed or pulled in a few days. 

You should also arrive at your appointment with a makeup-free, washed face for best results. This will not only help your esthetician with the procedure, but it will also reduce the risk of your lashes getting compromised and keep you from having to wash the makeup off at the end of the day. (You need to avoid getting your lashes wet for two days after a lash lift.) 

The appointment will take about an hour, so you may also want to eat beforehand to reduce discomfort during the application. 

what to expect during a lash lift

What can I expect during a lash lift appointment?

The first step to a successful lash lift is a consultation. During the consultation, your Pro will go over the process and ask questions about the look you’re going for. This will help you both get on the same page about what to expect during the appointment and what the result will look like.

Many Pros will also do a patch test before the appointment to make sure you won’t have an allergic reaction to the chemicals being used. 

On the day of the lift, the appointment will usually go like this: 

  1. You’ll lie down on a chair like you’re getting waxed or tattooed. 
  2. The Pro will cleanse the area and place a silicon rod on the top of your eye. 
  3. The Pro will curl the lashes over the rod and use an adhesive to set them.
  4. The Pro will apply a lifting lotion to the lashes so they curl around the rod. 
  5. Finally, the Pro will apply a setting lotion so the lashes will hold their shape. 

Though the process may feel slightly uncomfortable, it shouldn’t hurt. You can expect to be at your appointment for about an hour. 

for 48 hour hours after a lash lift, avoid mascara, water, showering, sweating

Can I make my lash lift last longer?

Proper care is the key to maintaining a lash lift. Though it might seem like an action movie trope, the first 48 hours are crucial when it comes to this treatment. During this time, you’ll want to avoid water, mascara, sweating, and showering. All of these things can weaken the lift and decrease the amount of time it will last. 

After that initial two days, you’ll still want to pay attention to your lashes. Every morning, you should brush out the lashes to ensure they aren’t getting clumpy. You’ll also want to periodically apply lash serum and avoid rubbing your eyes. 

Every six weeks or so, it’s a good idea to return to the salon for a touch-up. 

Can I use mascara?

Once you’ve gotten through the first two days after your lift, it’s safe to use mascara. However, you’ll want to avoid waterproof mascara, as it can dry out the lashes and cause the lift to look droopy. 

Though mascara can give your lashes an added boost, one benefit of a lash lift treatment is that it reduces your need for makeup. Using mascara daily or using old products can be harmful to the eye, so lash lifting may give you the opportunity to ditch mascara altogether for at least a few days per week. 

How much do lash lifts usually cost?

All things considered, you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $100 for your lash lift. The price will vary based on your esthetician, salon, and the services you add on to your treatment. 

For example, a lash lift and lash tint are the perfect pair. While the lift can give your eyelashes the desired shape, a tint will color them to make them pop even more. If you opt for both treatments, the cost will be higher. 

Do lash lifts ruin your eyelashes?

Like many beauty treatments, a lash lift should only be performed by a trained and certified Pro. When placing chemicals near a sensitive area like the eyes, you’ll want to make sure you trust the esthetician. A trained Pro will have all the tools needed to do the treatment in a safe way that also gets the best results. 

In some cases, a lash lift can actually help your lashes. Though mascara and an eyelash curler can make your eyes pop, the process of applying them can force you to repeatedly rub and tug on your eyes. The lash lift — and added tint, if desired — eliminates these steps so your eyes can relax. 

Do lash lifts work for all lashes?

Technically, a lash lift can be performed on any length or color of lash, but results will look best on longer lashes. If you have short or broken lashes, you may want to give your lashes a little TLC before opting for a lift. 

Beyond medicine, there are a few other proven ways to lengthen your lashes, including: 

  • Removing eye makeup at the end of the day
  • Gently cleansing your face 
  • Brushing eyelashes with an eyelash brush 

People with naturally curly lashes also may not benefit from a lash lift. When in doubt, it’s best to consult with a Pro to discuss your options. 

For those who want a glamorous lash look without the pain of using an eyelash curler, a lash lift is a great option. Many certified Pros throughout the United States can perform this treatment easily and painlessly, keeping you safe while giving you a fresh new look. 


If you’re interested in exploring your lash lift options, scroll through our directory to find a certified Pro who can get you started — you can do it without even batting an eye.

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