Eyelash Extensions vs. Lash Lifts: Which Is Right for You?

Not sure whether to get lash extensions or a lash lift? You’re not alone! Deciding between the two can be tricky—especially if it’s your first time getting an eyelash treatment. Whether you're after dramatic volume or a natural lift, we're breaking down the key differences between eyelash extensions and lash lifts to help you find your perfect match.

What Are Eyelash Extensions?

Eyelash extensions are a semi-permanent treatment whereby usually synthetic fibres/materials, such as PBT Silk are glued to the natural lashes. They can be used to enhance the curl, length, thickness and volume of your lashes. 

Styles of Eyelash Extensions

There are several different styles and techniques used by lash technicians to apply lash extensions which create different effects. The most common ones are;

Classics - one extension per natural lash creating a more natural subtle enhancement similar to a mascara look. 

Volume/Russian - Lash extensions are made into fans and then applied to each natural lash to add volume. Fans can be tailored to different dimensions to create more natural or very dramatic sets. 

Hybrid - A combination of Classic & Russian lashes, to create a textured looking set. 

Mega Volume - Ultra-light lashes formed into large fans for a dramatic, full-volume finish.

Lash extensions are available in a wide variety of thicknesses usually from 0.03 to 0.25mm, a range of curls such as J, B, C , CC, D, U, M & L, as well as different lengths and colours! Lash artists can also completely customise and tailor lash sets through lash mapping where they can create certain lash extension sets to suit particular eye shapes, fill gaps in a lash line and so on. This makes eyelash extensions incredibly versatile, and a favourite for those wanting complete control over their lash look.

(Different Styles of Eyelash Extensions)

Eyelash Extensions Application & Retention

In terms of application time, this can vary based on many factors including; natural lash line fullness, experience of lash tech, lash extension style chosen etc but will approximately take between 1.5-2.5 hours for a full set. Each person has approximately 120 natural eyelashes and you lose on average 3 per day, Your lash extensions will fall out as and when your natural ones do, they will also grow out on the natural lash getting further away from the root. Therefore most clients get regular infills every 2/3 weeks to keep their lashes looking full and to remove any outgrown extensions. It is important to note that most lash techs will expect you to have a minimum of 50% of your lash extension left to class it as an infill. You can expect to pay less for an infill with them taking approximately 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Aftercare is also highly recommend for eyelash extensions including shampooing and brushing lash extensions daily to ensure cleanliness and aid in better retention. What many clients love about having lash extension is waking up ready, there's no need for mascara!

What is a Lash Lift Treatment?

Lash lift is also a semi-permanent eyelash treatment that gives an instant lift from the root and curl to the natural lashes through perming, often paired with alash tint for deeper definition. Since it uses your own lashes, results are very natural. That said, it’s best suited for those with fuller, healthy lashes.

(Lash Lift Tutorial Step By Step)

Lash Lift Application & Retention

A lash lift treatment is much quicker than lash extensions with the whole process taking roughly 45-60 minutes. They also require a lot less maintenance in comparison lasting 6-8 weeks, and as your natural lashes shed and new ones grow, the lifted effect gradually fades. However you do have to wait a minimum of 6 weeks in-between lifts as otherwise you could over-process the previously treated lashes which would then become brittle, dry or damaged and can then result in an uneven or poor quality lift. Many techs and clients combine a lash lift with a tint to also add darkness and definition to the natural lashes. Some clients also choose to use mascara on top of their lash lift especially if they didn't opt for the tint or as the lift fades. 

Eyelash Extensions vs. Lash Lifts: Which Is Right for You?

As you can probably tell by now eyelash extensions and lash lifts differ in many ways but choosing the right one for you is a very personal choice with both having benefits and drawbacks. 

Overall Look - Eyelash extensions are extremely customisable so can create anything from natural to extra volume looking sets. This is great if you want to completely transform your natural lashes into something more enhanced or have the flexibility to choose exactly what style you want. Lash lifts can only enhance your natural lashes so can not be as customised, therefore they are not ideal for someone with sparse or weakened natural lashes as you will not get a dramatic enhancement or an ideal lift. However for those with fuller, healthy natural lashes it can create a beautiful result. A lash lift treatment is perfect for those trying to achieve the 'clean girl' aesthetic. 

Price -In terms of pricing we can't tell you the exact price of a treatment as this will vary depending on many factors including location, experience, over heads and more however eyelash extensions tend to be more costly as they take longer to apply and require more maintenance, so more appointments in general to see your technician. Lash Lifts are definitely a cheaper option for semi-permanent results so can be deemed more budget-friendly.

Maintenance - Lash extensions require infills every 2/3 weeks and daily aftercare to keep them looking even and fresh. This is a lot more effort and time as opposed to lash lifts that last 6/8 weeks! The treatment times themselves are also much shorter for a lash lift so if you have a busier lifestyle then lash lifts might be the better option for you. 

So which one should you go for? 

Choose Eyelash Extensions if;

You crave always-ready lashes

You don’t mind salon maintenance

You love switching up your lash styles

You want a lash transformation

Go for a Lash Lift if:

You prefer an effortless beauty routine

You have healthy, fuller natural lashes

You want a quicker, more affordable treatment

You’re after a low-maintenance, “clean girl” aesthetic

Want to learn how to perform lash extension or lash lift treatments? Why not take a look at Pinkfishes Accredited eyelash courses to start or progress your career in the lash industry today! 

(Pinkfishes Training Academy)