Cysteamine vs. TGA Lash Lifts: What’s the Difference?
Lash lifts have become a go-to service for clients who want a natural-looking curl without extensions. But if you’ve been exploring professional training or new services to offer, you’ve probably noticed there are two main chemical systems used:
(Cysteamine Lash Lift completed by a Pinkfishes Trainer)
1. Cysteamine-based lash lifts
2. TGA (Thioglycolic Acid)-based lash lifts
Both create beautifully lifted lashes, but the science behind them—and the results clients experience—can be very different. Here’s a clear and comprehensive breakdown to help you either choose the best option for you or why it is great to be trained in both methods to have options to suit your clients needs.
What Is a Lash Lift?
A lash lift works bybreaking down and reforming the disulphide bonds in the hair so the lashes can be shaped into a new position (curl). It is the perfect alternative treatment to lash extensions and can last 6-8 weeks!
(Cysteamine Lash Lift completed by a Pinkfishes Trainer)
TGA Lash Lifts (Thioglycolic Acid)
TGA has been the industry standard for decades because it works quickly and gives great results.
(TGA Lash Lift Full Kit - Available on Pinkfishes.com)
How It Works
Thioglycolic acid breaks down disulphide bonds efficiently, allowing the lash to reshape on the shield.
Pros
Fast processing times (typically 5–12 minutes depending on brand) – Pinkfishes TGA Pink Powerlift (Step 1)and Pink Neutraliser (Step 2) processing times are between 4-10 minutes depending on the condition of the natural lashes.
Strong, reliable curls
Works well on very straight or coarse lashes
Cons
Can sometimes be more drying on the lash
Has a stronger chemical smell
Cysteamine Lash Lifts
Cysteamine is a newer, more “hair-friendly” active ingredient that has become popular as a gentler alternative.
(Cysteamine Lash Lift Full Kit - Available on Pinkfishes.com)
How It Works
Cysteamine breaks down disulphide bonds through a different chemical pathway and is often used in formulations designed to mimic the natural pH of hair.
Pros
Considered a more conditioning and gentle for the lashes
Often packaged with keratin or amino acid complexes
Causes less swelling of the hair shaft
Less risk of overprocessing
Better for fine, fragile or previously damaged lashes
Cons
Longer processing times (often 8–18 minutes depending on the brand) -Pinkfishes Cysteamine Pink Rise (Step 1) and Pink Set (Step 2) processing times are between 6-12 minutes depending on the condition of the natural lashes.
Want to learn more about how Cysteamine Lash Lifts work, and learn how to complete a Korean Inspired Lash Lift? You can get our Masterclass completely FREE when you purchase our Cysteamine Kit! Simply add both to your basket and see the kit become free at checkout.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose TGA if your client:
Has strong, coarse, or extremely straight lashes
Wants a bold and dramatic curl
Has had no history of lash dryness or damage
Choose Cysteamine if your client:
Has fine, weak, or easily damaged lashes
Has had a lash lift go wrong in the past
Prefers a gentle, health-focused option
Wants frequent lifts with minimal damage
Are Cysteamine Lash Lifts “Safer”?
Both systems are safe when used correctly and within professional timing guidelines.
Final Thoughts
Both Cysteamine and TGA lash lifts have their place in the beauty world. Many professionals even keep both in their service menu to customise lifts for different lash types.
If you’re a lash artist, the best choice often depends on your client's natural lash condition, desired curl intensity, and how often they book lifts.
If you’re a client reading this: talk to your lash tech! They can evaluate your lashes and choose the safest, most effective formula for your goals.
(TGA Lash Lift completed by a Pinkfishes Trainer)
