Lash lift and tint vs extensions – Which lash treatment is the best?

Fuller, longer eyelashes help to frame the face and open up the eyes. Lash extensions and a lash lift and tint can both achieve this dazzling effect. 

But when we’re talking about lash lift and tint vs extensions, which treatment comes out on top?

Lash lift and tint info 

A lash lift is a kind of perm for the lashes. Lashes are softened using a chemical solution. They are then curled around a rod and set into place using another chemical formula. They’re later tinted to darken and intensify the lashes. 

The whole process takes around an hour.

Lash extension info 

For an eyelash extension, artificial lashes are bonded to natural lashes with medical-grade glue. Each lash is applied individually, so they can mirror the natural lashes and shape of the eyelid. 

The process can take up to two hours.

Lash lift and tint vs extensions

Both lash extensions and a lash lift and tint give your eyelashes bigger impact. Both can be customised depending on your face shape and the look you want to achieve. 

But there are some key differences between the two treatments. Check out the benefits of both below…

Read More: How to Safely Remove Eyelash Extensions: Avoid Common Mistakes

Benefits of a lash lift and tint

Lashes look natural 

A lash lift works with what you’ve already got. It takes the natural lashes and gives them extra curl, lift and shape. 

Straight lashes? Criss-crossed lashes? Twisted lashes? A lash lift will rectify all of these issues by fixing lashes into a perfect shape. 

A lash tint then darkens the lashes to give even more definition and better frame the face.  

They last longer than extensions

Get a lash lift and you’ll only need to head back to the salon every 8 to 12 weeks. In between appointments, your lashes will slowly return to their natural shape. 

In contrast, lash extensions need monthly maintenance. Natural lashes fall out taking the extension with them. So you’ll need to get regular refills if you want lashes looking their best.

Low maintenance

Twenty four hours after a lash lift, you can treat lashes the same way you’d treat natural lashes. You can use eye makeup as normal and you don’t have to worry about getting lashes wet.

Lash extensions require a little more care and attention. You should avoid mascara and any oil-based face products. 

What’s more, touching your lashes, rubbing your eyes, using makeup remover wipes and making regular trips to the swimming pool or sauna can all lead to breakages and lost extensions.

There’s less likely to be irritation or damage to the lashes 

Because a lash lift and tint works with your natural lashes, very few people experience any type of irritation. 

The same can’t be said of eyelash extensions. The glue used to fix extensions into place doesn’t agree with everyone. It can cause redness, inflammation and itching. 

Eyelash extension damage is also sometimes a problem. Lashes can be left thin, brittle and shorter than before – especially if your beauty therapist isn’t experienced with this particular treatment.

More affordable 

Lash extensions are more expensive. They cost anywhere between $120 and $300 for a first application. Infills then set you back around $80 to $180. The price varies depending upon the salon you choose and the level of volume you’re looking for. 

A lash lift and tint is much cheaper and usually costs around $100. 

Benefits of lash extensions

As we’ve seen, there are lots of reasons to choose a lash lift and tint over lash extensions. But extensions remain popular for a couple of really good reasons…

Dramatic impact

Sure, a lash lift looks beautiful and natural. But if you really want to make a statement with your lashes, it has to be a lash extensions. 

Extensions add volume, curl and length. And they highlight the eyes to perfection. This makes them a popular choice for weddings and other special occasions.

They can bring drama to any type of lashes

Lash lifts only work well if you have reasonably long eyelashes to start with.

For those with particularly short or sparse eyelashes, an eyelash extension is the only way to get the volume and curl you’re looking for.