I got a lash lift and it blew my mind.

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I first heard about a lash lift when I watched a youtube video of Lisa Eldridge, a very popular makeup artist, getting one. The idea fascinated me and also made perfect sense. Of course we could perm eyelashes! They are hair like (but not exactly the same as) the hair on our head.

If this whole concept is new to you, a lash lift is essentially a perm for your eyelashes. It creates a long lasting curl that lifts your eyelashes and makes your eyes look bigger and more opened! It completely negates any need for a traditional eyelash curler, and can curl even the most stubborn lashes. I’ve heard that it lasts about 6-8 weeks.

My lashes are thin, short and stick straight. I always have had to work really really hard on getting them to stay curled. I’ve tried a few different serums as a way to help them grow longer, and have had some good results and some not so good results.

While I’m talking about serums, I’ll go ahead and share the ones I’d recommend. I had really good results with Neulash. I used it a few years ago and saw a noticeable increase in length and thickness.

I tried Latisse last year but unfortunately it made my eyes really dry. I saw good results but I did have to stop short of the suggested time frame to use it in because the dryness was unbearable.

I used Rodan + Fields lash boost several months ago but found it made my eyes super dry as well. So I gave up pretty quickly. My mom, though, had been using it on her own and after seeing her crazy long eyelashes I was inspired to try it again and use less serum at my lashes. After several weeks, I wasn’t seeing any change and was actually noticing significant lash lost in certain areas, and the lashes on the outer corner of my right eye were incredibly short. I couldn’t keep using it after seeing the loss of lashes, so I quit about 5/6 weeks in.

I immediately started using Grande Lash and have yet to see results with it because it’s only been a few weeks.

BUT BACK TO THE LASH LIFT ALREADY.

My friend got a lash lift and her lashes looked amazing! I booked an appointment with the same technician who did hers the next day.

The process was quick and simple. I experienced a slight bit of a burning sensation, but it was so minor that I almost don’t want to mention it to scare anyone off.

Here is a before shot of my eyelashes, taken the morning of my appointment.

When I arrived, I laid down on the table and she placed large silicone pads under my eyes to hold my lower lashes down, and glued a silicone pad to my eyelid. It was a rounded shape, and she determined medium was a good size for my eyelid and lash length. Next, she glued my lashes to the pad to keep them in a curled position for the perm solution. She then applied the perm solution and that processed on my lashes for about 10 minutes. Next she wiped that off and applied the neutralizing lotion to my lashes. That processed for about 5 minutes and then she cleaned it off. Finally, she applied a hydrating oil to the lashes at the every end to condition them. After a few minutes, she did a final wipe of my lashes and very gently removed the silicone pad.

So here is what my lashes looked like after I returned home from the treatment!

I was initially pleased but was very excited to see them with mascara on. You can see how thin and light my lashes are, so mascara really goes a long way for added definition!

The curl is amazing! I can’t believe how much it opens my eyes up. I love that I have a nice curl all the way to my outer corner lashes as that has always been a challenge with my eyelash curler.

My only wish was that there was a more dramatic bend all the way to the tips. It’s a little straight up for my taste, but I think I’ll ask for a smaller pad next time to get more of a “c” shaped curl, versus a “j: shaped curl. It’s recommended that you wait about 2 months between lash perms, and the perm should last about 6-8 weeks. I’m only about 1 week into my lash lift life but I have a feeling this is going to be a regular thing. I hope, too, that I’ll start to experience a bit more thickness with my lashes since I won’t be squeezing them to death between a lash curler every day. There’s no science to back that up, that’s just my hope!

So would I do it again? Absolutely. Would I recommend it? For sure! It shaved minutes off my makeup routine and is the quickest and most relatively painless thing I can do to achieve a look I want with my eyes. It makes my eyes look bigger and rounder, and I love the openness it creates. At $65 for a lash lift, it’s totally worth it in my mind.

I’d recommend googling “lash lift” in your area to find someone who is doing this near you. More than likely it’s an esthetician, and you may find it being offered at nail salons or hair salons. I had a really good experience with my technician but I encourage you to do your own research and find someone you trust.

p.s. my normal mascara + fibers routine.

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Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says · 05.01.17

I had a lash lift for the first time last year too and it was amazing. Definitely life-changing, especially since I have such long lashes which unfortunately droop naturally.

Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com

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Kellie says · 05.01.17

Where in Raleigh did you end up going?
I looked in Cary and one Raleigh, and wasn’t sure based on the various salons.
However with that being asked, your lashes look fabulous!! So glad this worked for you!

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Kate says · 05.01.17

I don’t think I’d recommend it only because the tech didn’t really explain what she was doing (I knew from having done my research) nor was she prepared (had to rub my mascara off with water because she didn’t have makeup remover).

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Kellie says · 05.01.17

Good to know! I’ll keep looking! And if I find a place that works out better, I’ll let you know! Us girls got to stick together!

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Marla says · 05.02.17

Is it normal for the tech to explain everything they are doing ? I wouldn’t consider that to be an issue, unless you asked for them to explain the process to you and they were rude about it and didn’t want to. When I had a lash lift done it really didn’t even occur to me that the tech should be explaining the process to me.

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Alison says · 05.01.17

Hey guys…I would love to know if you find a good place in Raleigh. I searched online too but I’m not loving the results. I want to do this asap!

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Kellie says · 05.01.17

ICandy Lash in Cary seems to have pretty good reviews per their facebook! I was thinking bout checking them out. They also have tint available as well and I think multiple locations ( or they serve multiple areas). All the reviews rave about the three girls that work there! and from the website its $65 for lash lift or $80 for lift and tint.
You can also book online and they have evening appointments as well. The online appointment however only lets you book for “perm with tint” though. So not sure if you have the option to get it with out. But based on reviews looks pretty reputable.

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Katelyn says · 05.01.17

I get mine tinted at the place at Crabtree. The main tech there has worked there for many years and she always does a great job. I’ve never gotten them permed, but I think the tinting is even more dramatic.

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Sherry says · 05.01.17

Hi Kate
You didn’t mention it in the blog…..just curious if you got yours tinted along with the lift?
The moment I saw your Instagram post about this upcoming blog I started googling last lifts and found a salon in the Raleigh area that I think I will try. Tinting seems to be included in the price from what I can tell.
Your lashes looks great by the way, I definitely want to do this.
Sherry

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Kate says · 05.01.17

I didn’t get the tint only because the place I went didn’t have it available.

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Sheri says · 05.01.17

I had an eyelash perm about 20 years ago! They didn’t call it lash lift though. Just perm

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Andrea says · 05.01.17

After I saw yours last week I immediately made an appt! I have to wait a few weeks though since that was the first opening. I’m getting a tint too because she has a special going. My lashes are long but thin and very hard to curl. I cannot wait!!! Can you wear eye makeup right afterwards? I’m doing mine on a date night so I really hope you can.

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Kathy says · 05.01.17

When I had mine done, I pre curled my lashes with an eyelash curler and the results were way better than the first time I had them done. I have straight lashes too and I have loved getting them lifted!

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Mandy says · 05.01.17

Hey Kate 🙂

Would you recommend anyone or place specifically in the Raleigh area? Did you love the shop you went to?

Thanks so much!

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Mandy says · 05.01.17

OH!! Haha you already answered that. 😊

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Audrey says · 05.01.17

I had my first lash lift in March. Absolutely love it! My lashes are long but stick straight out. Not anymore!

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Heather says · 05.01.17

I have been obsessed with finding a Yumi lash technician in my area for about a year, no luck so far. Have you heard of this? It’s a keratin lash lift so you get the curl & also no need for mascara. Going to Vegas in a few weeks & found someone there, soooo excited!

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Kacie says · 05.01.17

I am really debating getting a lash lift and tint. My eyelashes died during pregnancy and even with some growth serum I used after I was done nursing, they came back but would still love some lift to them. This may be my summer treat to myself once we have 2 incomes again (DH is unemployed at the moment after the company he worked for, for 15 years, filed bankruptcy and closed).

One salon does them for the same price as yours, so definitely reasonable. I had an allergic reaction to eyelash extensions a few years ago, so went the serum route… which was fine for awhile.

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Kacie says · 05.01.17

Forgot… how often do tForhey say you should do this?

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Jeanna says · 01.16.18

Hi! I’m considering the Lash Boost serum by Rodan and Fields…you mention you had tried a serum and it worked for a while….Why do you indicate that it only worked for a “while?”

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Jane says · 05.01.17

Thank you for this post! My eyelashes are similar to yours–blonde and short–and are basically invisible without mascara. I would be very interested in trying a lash lift. My question is: did you have to keep your eyes open throughout the whole process (like, no blinking)? Thanks! Also, do you know if it’s safe for contact-wearers?

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Kate says · 05.01.17

No your eyes are closed during the process!

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Emilia Harry says · 05.01.17

Great results! Have you tried Mary Kay’s Lash & Brow Building Serum? I’m a consultant and have been putting it to the test myself and the results are amazing! So far this has not dried out my eyes & my eyes are very sensitive.

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EB says · 05.01.17

I get these pretty regularly and love them!

I think the reason for the J shaped curve is so it lasts longer as your lashes grow out. The one thing to be careful of though is that they don’t over do it. One time the lady was a bit overzealous and I had my lashes curl back up on themselves and mascara became impossible to put on. I looked like a broken doll with messy lashes for about a week.

Overall though, they’re amazing — especially for summer when you’re in the heat/humidity/water more often.

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June says · 05.02.17

I am so sorry this happened to you but your description of a broken doll with messy lashes gave me a good laugh!

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Michele says · 05.01.17

Any chance theres a serum to promote BROW growth? Mine are sparse as I did lots of over plucking, and although I’m good at filling them myself, I’d love to shave a few minutes off my morning routine. Thanks!

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Alison says · 05.01.17

Hey Michelle,

You can usually use any of the lash serums on your brows too! I do use the Rodan & Fields Lash Boost on both my lashes and brows and it works well.

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Michele says · 05.01.17

Awesome! I thought I might give that a try, but I’m so glad someone confirmed it for me! Thank you😃

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Michele says · 05.01.17

Any chance that there’s a serum for BROW growth? Overpacking left mine sparse and uneven. I fill them in well, but I’d love to take a few minutes off of my routine. Thanks!

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Becca says · 05.01.17

What fun! Love seeing the results and hearing about it! I can see how this would be really fun before a special event or trip.

I also shared your post with a friend of mine who is getting married.

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Kellee Clark says · 05.01.17

I can verify with my own Amazing results and that of all of my customers that Rodan + Fields Lash Boost is incredible, it takes consistent use of the right amount of the product and 6 – 8 weeks to start seeing the results. I have not heard of anyone losing lashes with Lash Boost, the product does need to be used within 60 days of opening as after that time it loses potency. Lash Boost is AMAZING!

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Kay Nguyen says · 05.01.17

Oh wow, your lashes look amazing afterward! I will to try this out <3

https://www.myblackcloset.com/

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Alisha says · 05.01.17

Is there any maintenance needed with this? My lashes are similar to yours and I’ve only found success with lash extensions. The maintenance plus the price per fill (about the same as the perm) has always deterred me from keeping them.

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Heidi Pruitt says · 05.01.17

Hey Kate! Will you do a follow-up post in a few months after you’ve had your lash perms a while? I was wondering about the long-term effects on your eyelashes. I used Latisse for almost a year and loved my long lashes! However I had to stop because it darkened my eyelids to the point where I looked like a deathly ill person! I haven’t used anything for almost two years now, but my eyelashes have not been the same since. You can hardly tell I have mascara on most of the time because my lashes are so short and thin. I’m afraid to use anything else now because of the darkening I had with Latisse, but I’m also afraid of doing any further damage to my eyelashes. I would love to know if the lash lift would be something you have to always continue once you start (unless you want your lashes to be worse than when you started). Hope this makes sense… Thanks! 🙂

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Heather Siesel says · 07.06.17

Did you know rodan and fields lash boost doesn’t darken eyelids or the iris of the eye like Latisse does. You should try that if you loved latisse but hated those side effects

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Jeanna says · 01.16.18

Hi!
Hi! I’m considering the Lash Boost serum by Rodan and Fields…now that it’s several months later since you started using it …do you have any long-term results that you can share, both good and bad?

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Kath N says · 05.01.17

Hello Kate,

Thank you so much for sharing your super helpful review. I had lash extensions done for the first time a month ago, loved it initially. Now that it’s all off, I have regrets because my real ones are even shorter than before. People have said it’s because you’re so used to the long ones from extensions you forget how short your real ones are, but this wasn’t the case for me. I know because I used my eyelash curler and it wasn’t the same as before pre-extension.

Thanks to your review, I will have to give this a try, because I don’t think I’ll go through extensions again, as lovely as they make my lashes. But I have the lashes that are alot, but shortttttttttt, and fan downwards sadly. But your post gave me hope!

Have you by any chance tried Organyc Eyelash & Eyebrow Growth Serum ?

Thank you for your time and post, Kate! 🙂

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Ryan | The Blessed Mess Blog says · 05.01.17

I’m so glad you did a post on this! I am definitely going to try to find someone locally to get this done because your results are amazing!

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Jaquelin Pollock says · 05.01.17

After your lift are you still using the fibers too?

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Kari says · 05.01.17

Is there any restrictions on makeup or remover use after a lash lift? Can you continue to use a lash growth serum after getting a lash lift? Your lashes look amazing!

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Sheila says · 05.10.17

Hi! I do Lash Lifts in Durham, NC. I don’t recommend using eye makeup for the rest of the day after a lash lift. But after the first day everythings fine to use except I don’t recommend using waterproof mascara at all or an eyelash curler either. And yes you can still use your lash growth serums after the first day.
My Instagram is @estheticsbysheila and I have all the information about lash lifts on there!
https://www.instagram.com/estheticsbysheila/

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April says · 06.01.17

I can vouch that Sheila is fantastic! She recently did a lash lift and tint for me a couple of weeks ago and I LOVE it. She did a great job and explained what she was doing every step and how I needed to care for them afterwards.

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Sylvia says · 05.02.17

Hi Kate,
I’m glad you enjoyed your lash lift experience so far! I actually had my lashes lifted about 3 months ago, and initially loved them, however, once they started growing out there was a kink in them and they looked very sparse for about 2 months. I notice that you said your’s are more of a “j” shape and your are seeking more of a “c” shape, but I would caution you as I used a smaller roller and ended up with my “kinky” eyelashes. I’ve decided it probably isn’t worth the money for me. However, I wish you good luck with it all!

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bev cooks says · 05.02.17

This is bad to the BONE.

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Kayla says · 05.02.17

Who and where did you go?! I’m interested!

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Cassie says · 05.02.17

I got a lash lift and tint yesterday and left pretty disappointed. There is one place in my area that does it. They were pretty unprofessional and my lashes look a little darker (they were pretty blonde to begin with), but do not look nearly as curled as yours do. When I compare before and after pictures here is a very slight difference. I really wanted to love it, but my top and bottom lashes still stick together in places, which is what irritates me the most.

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Stephanie says · 05.02.17

Your blog specifically states you had a “really good experience with your technician” but yet in your comments and on Instagram you state otherwise. Which one is it?

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Me says · 05.02.17

Careful. You’ll get blocked & banned.

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Kathryn says · 05.02.17

Your lashes look great! The idea is a bit scary to me but you’ve got me thinking about at least tinting. FYI, although I’ve never tried the commercial growth serums, I use a mix of coconut oil and castor oil to take my mascara off, and I really think that promotes growth–I have less stubby “tween” lashes when I use that every night and they just look fuller and longer if I keep it up.

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Kim says · 05.03.17

So funny you say that abt the 2 oils! I’ve been doing the EXACT same thing & swear that my lashes have never been better ! Was trying to believe it but thanks to you, I believe it now 🙂

P.S. I’m not recommending this but You can get eyelash perming kits on the major selling website that starts with an A 😉
I did & it really does work. Problem is that it expires after so long from opening & I was just using it for myself.

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A Sparkle Of Grace says · 05.02.17

Your lashes look amazing!
A Sparkle Of Grace

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Joane says · 05.03.17

Which salon did you go to in Raleigh? I’m in Durham and can’t find any dependable lash salons here. Thanks in advance!

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Sheila says · 05.10.17

Hi! I do Lash Lifts in Durham, NC. I work at Bella Trio Salon & Spa, it’s about a mile away from The Streets at Southpoint Mall.. come see me!
I have some before and after photos of lash lifts on my Facebook and Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/estheticsbysheila/

Hope to see you soon!

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Stephanie says · 05.04.17

This may be a weird question, but do you know if this is something you can do while pregnant or nursing? Thanks!

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Kate says · 05.04.17

I don’t know, but I would ask whichever salon you are looking into!

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Sheila says · 05.10.17

I do lash lifts and it is not recommended while pregnant.

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Sari says · 05.05.17

Being Japanese, I’ve been getting lash perms for years. But the lift with the pads instead of round rods is definitely game-changing! I’ve been using Alphaeon Lash serum (used to use Grande Lash and Latisse) and it is the BEST I have ever used.

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Tara says · 05.10.17

Have you noticed any difference using the GrandeLash yet?

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Sheila says · 05.10.17

Love your post!!!
I am an esthetician in Durham and I had a guest come in the other day who reads your blog and wanted to get a lash lift! So definitely thanks for posting this! Also, have you ever tried RevitaLash? It’s all natural eyelash conditioner and we have it here at our salon and spa, I’ve been using it and have seen amazing results with it so far!
I do a TON of lash lifts and lash tinting at our salon and spa! Come check me out! I am also on Instagram & Facebook if you want to look at before and after photos!
@estheticsbysheila

Thanks again!

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Jane says · 05.19.17

I have long blonde lashes and naturally curly hair with straight lashes. I got my lashes “perm curled” and my lashes took to the curl so much that it looked like they were wound around a toothpick and they wouldn’t relax . I had to wait until they grew out! Bad idea if you have long lashes. My mother-in-law did it with short lashes and looked good. Just FYI.

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Jane says · 05.19.17

Lash tints are the best for blondes!!

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Kelly @ No Thanks To Cake says · 05.21.17

Hi Kate – I was so excited by your post and others I have seen on the internet… and scheduled an appointment. Unfortunately, mine turned out too curly and my lower lashes even appear to be a bit crimped 🙁 With that, I’m curious if you have any idea on ways to relax a lash perm once it’s done. I washed them almost immediately, added oil, and continue to do so daily. It’s only been about five days, but I’m WAY too curly. I know you’re new to this procedure… but desperate for ideas. xoxo

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Tammy says · 05.31.17

My salon does a curl and lash tint. A friend of mine did it and loves it . This eliminates mascara completely. She also recommends wearing swim goggles when you shower or wash your face to protect your lashes. You’ll get more than 6 to 8 weeks out of your nicely treated lashes

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maggie says · 06.21.17

I got mine done by Quinn at Paintbase in Morrisville and she did an amazing job! I also got the tint too and I was BLOWN away but the results!!!

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Rachel H. says · 08.05.17

I was inspired by you, and finally decided I NEEDED to try and lash lift. I decided to do a Groupon (which worried me) for a last lift and tint (I am a red-head, so I was excited for the tint too). I got them both yesterday, and so far and absolutely thrilled! I haven’t washed them yet, so we will see how they do after that, but I am so excited. Thank you for the recommendation and for spelling out the process; it decreased my anxiety in trying something new!

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Kate says · 08.05.17

great I’m so glad to hear that!

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Abby says · 10.04.17

Hi Kate, I am just researching lash lifts a bit. Now that it’s been a little while since you had your lift, would you still do it again? Or maybe you already have repeated it? Have you noticed any negative effects from it? Thanks!

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Collette says · 10.11.17

Hey there!
I know this blog was from a while ago, but I’ve seen on IG that you have continued to get your lashes lifted. I got mine done yesterday and they lifted a little, but not as much as I was hoping. 😕 The gal said that it was like perming “virgin” hair and that next time it will take better. Is This your experience? Did you get better lift the second time? I was really hoping for lashes like yours because they turned out beautiful!

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Kate says · 10.12.17

No, and I’m not sure that makes sense because of the lash cycle (when they fall out/regrow). My guess is your tech just didn’t leave the solution on for long enough? Sorry you didn’t have a good first time!

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Heather says · 05.13.18

Hi Kate! I know this post is almost a year old so hopefully you’ll still respond haha! I just got mine tinted and lifted; i also had that burning sensation! I was wondering if your eyelids had any lil red veins show up? And im really hoping after a few days its jusy from being irritated and will go away. Thanks 4 your time(:

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Heather says · 05.13.18

Hi Kate! I know this post is almost a year old so hopefully you’ll still respond haha! I just got mine tinted and lifted; i also had that burning sensation! I was wondering if your eyelids had any lil red veins show up? And im really hoping after a few days its jusy from being irritated and will go away. Thank you!

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Paige says · 05.16.18

I just got my lashes lifted & tinted yesterday and I’m obsessed! I’ve always had a low-key makeup routine, and this just makes it even easier for me. I have naturally long lashes, and the tech made mine super curled. They look great and she was really impressed with how they came out, but I actually prefer the “straight” look of yours. I’ll have to ask about c vs. j-shape before my fill in a few months.

here’s my question to you – since you’ve had yours done for a few weeks, is there a certain mascara you have preferred using?

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Emily says · 05.28.18

Mind boggling content, whoever is the writer. Awesome stuff on eyelash extensions

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Akash Chauhan says · 05.30.18

I gave up on lash extensions, because it caused my lashes to fall out! I’m using Latisse now and it’s really working. And, it’s actually quite a bit cheaper than extensions! We asked an expert to debunk the myths of Nail Technician Course Australia.

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Tina says · 04.09.19

that lash lifting looks very perfect. I also do lash lifting in Salzburg and the volume and lenghts of your lashes look very nice. great job to the lash stylist.

best wish
Tina Wimpernverlängerung Salzburg

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Olivia Jordan says · 08.24.19

Thanks for sharing.

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Laura Mathews says · 11.13.19

Amazing! Thanks for sharing and I also recommend lash lift. lash lift gives perfect curls to natural lashes without damaging them.

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Franziska says · 12.20.19

thank you for sharing your experience.
I think that lash lifting is perfect. very good job.
I had a lash lifting 3 weeks ago and my lashes are still lifted very well.

xoxo
franziska from powder brows

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Amanda | Lash Lift Treatment says · 05.23.20

Great post by you Kate ! I love lash lift treatment too..
Also i’m big fan of your writing style. Keep it up!

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Susan Kolkmeier says · 05.25.20

Hi , I also spend a lot if time curling my lashes . The only mascara that will keep them curled us maybeline waterproof..
So why mascara are you using?
Susan.kilkmeier@gmai.com

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Laila says · 10.28.20

After reading your blog, I tried a DIY lash lift and it came out pretty good! I also got the tint too and I was BLOWN away but the results!!!

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Eulah Ryan says · 12.06.20

I complimented a client on her lovely lashes. She told me her secret was Dermalmd Lash Accelerator Serum. She said it is costly ($ 39), but sincerely works. I was skeptical but definitely fascinated as my lashes had thinned out the last couple of years. OMG! Dermalmd serum definitely works! My lashes are complete and long once more – maybe even greater than before. Worth each penny!

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Alexa G. says · 12.22.21

Thanks so much for impacting us with your knowledge and time you spend to do research we appreciate. you can check hyperhidrosis treatment new york

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Kp says · 07.24.22

So was it a regular thing or a one time deal ?

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