Lash Lifts, why I get them and more questions answered!

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From time to time I’ll mention getting a lash lift on Instagram and that inevitably leads to a lot of questions and a lot of confusion! I thought I’d break it all down for you in this post to try to answer some questions and give you a little more information in case this is something you are considering doing!

A lash lift, also known as a lash perm, is a process of curling the lashes with a chemical solution so they stay in a curled position. You know how a perm is created on hair on one’s head? The concept is very similar with the lash lift process but instead of curling the lashes around the barrel to create a spiral shape, the lashes are just positioned upwards against a silicone pad. Solution is applied and in about 30 minutes or so the process is complete. The full process from start to finish typically takes an hour and it’s important that the technician pays very close attention to how the lashes are positioned on the silicone pad as the shape they are glued in is the shape they will take with the perm solution.

So, why would someone do this? For me, it was a total game changer in how quickly I could apply my eye makeup and it gave me the look I want with my lashes. My natural lashes are thin, stick straight and don’t hold a curl. I had to heat up a lash curler with my blow dryer to really make my lashes hold the curl. The lash lift gives me curled, opened up lashes that make it very easy to swipe mascara onto. They never fall or lose their curl after the lift.

How long does the lift last? Typically it lasts about 6-8 weeks. Everyone’s lashes go through a natural shedding process and usually about 2 months after the lift I can see that my new lashes are straight and older ones are curled. It is permanent in that once you do the lift you cannot undo it, but once your lashes are grown out it will no longer provide any curl, just like when permed hair grows out straight.

Does it make my lashes darker? No, but you can get your lashes tinted during this process if you would like to. It’s completely optional and doesn’t change the lash lift at all.

Does it hurt? No. It may be a touch uncomfortable because lash glue is used to adhere the silicone pad to your lid, and then your lashes are glued to the pad, but it’s certainly not painful. Your eyes are closed during the process.

Does it bother your contact lenses? No, I haven’t had any trouble with that at all.

How much does it cost? It seems like the typical price range in my area is between $90-$120. Just like it’s important to do your research when you are looking for a new hairstylists, you must do your research when looking for someone to perform a lash lift. If the technician does not know what he or she is doing, you are going to be left with a frustrating eyelash situation.

What can go wrong? Well, like anything when you are having a service done, accidents happen. But in terms of what can go wrong with you lashes, they can possibly be curled too much and aim backwards towards your lid. I had that happen to a few lashes once and it was super annoying. Otherwise they can be curled in a wonky pattern if the technician didn’t pay close attention to gluing them to the silicone pad.

Is a lash lift and lash extensions the same thing? No. Lash extensions are when individual false lashes are glued to one’s natural eyelashes to create a false lash look that feels comfortable and looks natural (sometimes!). A lash lift simply curls your natural lashes, nothing is added or taken away.

Have you had any bad experiences? Now that I’ve done it a few times I’ve learned quite a bit. I wish I could get back into a salon and offer this service because it’s such a game-changer. I do my own lash lifts now since I’m a cosmetologist, but recommend you see a professional if you are interested in this service. My very first lash lift was a mix of emotions. I could immediately see the difference in how opened up my eyes were and how easily mascara went on, but some of my lashes were at a right angle and they weren’t fanned out properly. I now realize the technician wasn’t well trained. Since that time I’ve gone to two other technicians and they both did a wonderful job. In doing them myself I’ve learned that the solution needs to only be applied at the base of the lash instead of the entire lash from root to tip. When the solution hits the tip of the lashes it may bend them backwards toward your lid too much leading to a lot of frustration when doing your makeup! If you are worried about this, tell your technician that you want a very natural looking lift and don’t want the lashes to curl back at the tips!

How do I find someone to do this? Google “lash lift” and your area to see if there are salons near you. Then, do your own research on that person. See if they have an instagram account where they are sharing their work. See what kind of reviews they have on yelp or facebook. Make sure you check them out to know whether or not they are up to the standards you are looking for. I made the mistake of not checking out the first technician I went to and I wish that I had.

Would you ever get lash extensions? No, I don’t think so. They seem to high maintenance and fussy. I like to be able to rub my eyes in the shower and be makeup free.

What mascara did you use in this photo? In this photo I used Benefit Roller Lash mascara.

I hope this answers all the questions you may have!

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Michele says · 11.29.18

Have you ever done a lash tint? I’d love to get away from using mascara, since it always, no matter what brand I use or if it’s washable or waterproof, bleeds off and into my undereye area.

I’m terrified of a lash curler and even reading the lift process gives me the willies. I’m totally fine with straight (I can’t even watch someone put in or take out contacts, lol)

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Kate says · 11.29.18

I have gotten a tint and it’s really nice! It doesn’t work in place of mascara for me since mine are so thin but if you have thicker lashes it might!

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Richard Lane says · 11.29.18

Kate,
Love the lashes..!!
You look great..as ever
Richard 😘

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Richard Lane says · 11.29.18

Kate,
Love the lashes…they look great.
As indeed you always do!
Richard😘

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Sherry says · 11.29.18

I was just thinking about this while getting ready this morning…..I really want to try this. I think you have offered the name of the place you go in your InstaStories, but I’m not positive. I am in the Raleigh area, would you be willing to recommend where you go. I know on the first post where you wrote about this process you didn’t really want to recommend the person you went to because you didn’t feel they were quite prepared enough. My lashes could really use some help.
Thanks !!

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Kate says · 11.29.18

Sheila, @EstheticsbySheila or Blink Lash Studio are two great options

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Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says · 11.29.18

I actually already get my lashes permed regularly – it’s so convenient! I have naturally long lashes and hate bothering with mascara, so it’s perfect for me. 🙂

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

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Karen says · 11.29.18

I drove 2 hours to the nearest city to have a reputable place (#1 in the city) do my lash lift. Then I was told my eyelashes were too short and wouldn’t take a lift. I was soooo disappointed. Ended up getting extensions instead, but as you said, they are high maintenance, not only in cost, but how you care for them, sleep with them and live with them. Now I’m back to using the most natural false eyelashes I can find. And only then, on special occasions. Thanks for the tip to heat up the eyelash curler!

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Bridget Schultz says · 11.29.18

I went and had my first last lift done after you first talked about them a few years ago. The first one I did a lift/tint. I have blonde hair so my eyelashes are pretty much white. I liked the tint, but since I wear mascara all the time anyway, I didn’t do the tint the 2nd time. I had short & straight lashes, so the first lift I did was a life changer for the first few weeks. I felt like mine lasted maybe a month, so I was a bit disappointed that it didn’t last longer. I also, felt like my lashes went through a weird stage where some were still curled and others werent. I thought I would have more luck with doing it again. After the 2nd one, I ended up losing most of my lashes not long after. I don’t have many to work with the way it is, so I decided after that to not try it again. I know several people that have used the same lady and have had great luck, so I don’t feel like any of it was her fault. After losing most of my lashed I started to put the money towards lash serums instead, and that has made them thicker, longer, and even curl a little. I am too nervous to try it again now that they are longer then they have ever been.

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Cassie says · 11.29.18

Would you recommend your lash serum?

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Bridget Schultz says · 11.29.18

I know Kate didn’t have luck with it, but the Rodan & Fields lash boost made a big difference for me. It is not cheap, but worth the money! I found a deal on Grande Lash also, so I trade off with them at this point. I know the lady that did my lash tint, recommended both of these. She said that she saw the most thickness added to her clients eyelashes with the Rodan & Fields. Hope this helps 🙂

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Karen says · 11.29.18

I also tried the Rodan and fields lash boost. It worked… but the next time I saw my eye doctor, she told me I had eyelashes growing INSIDE my eyelids that were scratching my cornea! Beware! This can be permanent.

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Christine says · 11.29.18

Not lash related but I have a question about silk pillowcases. Do you use them (I thought I heard an IG story mentioning them)? Do you recommend and where would I find a decent one? Thanks! ❤️

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Kate says · 11.29.18

Yes they are a game changer and I found mine at Nordstrom!

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Michelle says · 12.08.18

Amazon has some decent silk pillowcases for a good price, too! Just make sure you read the reviews to make sure it’s actually silk and not fake.

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Mary Anna says · 11.29.18

I’ve been waiting for a post like this, so thank you!! I tried lash extensions, and while they were beautiful, they touched my glasses all day and showering/swimming with them was miserable. I’ve been considering a lash lift, and will definitely try it next!

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Emily says · 11.29.18

Do you have a salon or technician you could recommend in the Raleigh area?

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Jenn says · 11.29.18

Can you share which kit you use to do your own? My mother is a cosmetologist and I’d love for her to get on board with this. Thanks!

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Kate says · 11.29.18

It’s by Sugarlash and you can get it online 🙂

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Cassie says · 11.29.18

Would you recommend your lash serum?

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Cassie says · 11.29.18

This comment was intended for Bridget Schultz, sorry!

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Jill says · 11.29.18

I just had it done last week and I am in love. It was a game changer for me too. Thank you for recommending it! Everyone thought I was crazy until they saw the results!

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Angela says · 11.29.18

Very interesting! I have the same issues with my lashes and have to really hold them in the curler for a while to get them to lift. I also use a heated eyelash curler from Amazon that makes a huge difference in lift and curl. The lash lift sounds like it would save me a lot of time though!

Angela at Blush & Pearls

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Lynn says · 11.29.18

I have been using Urban Decay lash primer along with Younique Epic mascara….my lashes have never looked better! I tried Younique on a whim and was seriously impressed!

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Jill says · 11.29.18

Hi Kate, do you think a lash lift is safe during pregnancy? Thanks!

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Heather says · 11.30.18

A local salon here offers a lash lift and a keratin lash lift. The keratin is different? Should I pay extra to have that? The internet doesn’t seem to know the answer. Any help greatly appreciated! This is weird but I love your family and your blog since 2012! I talk about you to friends and acquaintances like I know you personally 😂😂😂

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Heather says · 11.30.18

I’ve had both and the keratin ones were WAY better!

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Kim says · 11.30.18

My daughter and I had this done after seeing you talk about it here. Love love love the results. I had extensions over the summer and they were too time consuming and expensive. This is the perfect solution for me.

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Heather says · 11.30.18

I got lash lifts for a long time, the Yumi lash ones were the best (keratin treatment with lash lift, actually adds length) I tried extensions a few months ago and LOVE them. I was also skeptical about maintenance & was worried about them being too va va voom, which the first set were, but a few tweaks & now perfect natural looking lashes. I do wish they didn’t take so much time…about an hour every 3 weeks.

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Stephanie Wood says · 11.30.18

I’m a cosmetologist as well and I was looking at cosmoprof and salon centric to see if they carry them. They don’t so I was just curious where you got yours from. I searched online and saw that you can just order the kit but I worry if they are ok to use since those sites don’t require a license to order them.

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Miranda says · 11.30.18

I love my lashes when I get a lift and tint! My optometrist told me to remove my contacts during the service. Because contacts are so porous if any of the chemical solution gets into your eyes it can seep into your contacts and stay there.

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Beth Jones says · 11.30.18

FYI, I received a lash lift and tint about a month after growing out last extensions. (Looking for a lower cost/maintenance option). I had a bad reaction with the perm solution and the lash adhesive (is what I was told). My lashes got super curly and smooched and eventually I lost a lot of lashes. I warn anyone who has tried extensions to wait until their natural lashes are completely grown in to try a lift. I had to go about two months before I could where eye makeup. Not the end of the world, but definitely inconvenient.

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Merle says · 11.30.18

I had a lash lift with eyelash tint about 3 weeks ago and couldn’t honestly see much difference. Quite disappointed really. One thing they told me was not to wear mascara for 24 hours afterwards.
Something to note if you have a function or event that evening or the next day. 😊

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Stacey says · 11.30.18

I have had lash extensions for 2 years now and I find them low maintenance and efficient! My makeup time in the morning decreased significantly since I spent the most time on my lashes! I never wear other eye makeup though which I think helps them last longer and my lash girl does them out of her home which is at a lower cost than salons! Also, no makeup remover on my eyes and no black goops in the corner of my eyes. I would definitely try a lash lift if my lash girl ever quit. Kate, your lashes look amazing!

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Marie says · 12.01.18

Wait – how do you do this to yourself if your eyes are closed? Very curious!

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Kate says · 12.03.18

One eye at a time!

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Shelly says · 12.08.18

Kate! I just got my first lash lift this week (because of your recommendation) and I LOVE it. My lashes are decently long and thicker. However I could NEVER get them to stay curled. This has made such a difference for me. Thank you!!!!!

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Pamela says · 12.08.18

I am also a licensed cosmologist,i have been intrigued ever since you posted about lash lift.i chwckwd my local sallys &they dont carry it,saw that amazon does but…..
Wondering if you can share where to purchase. Thanks

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Holly says · 12.08.18

Kate, does it do any damage to your lashes or make them fall out more than normal?

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Maddy says · 12.10.18

Any concerns with using a lash enhancement product like Lash Boost or Rapid Lash etc. after having a lash lift?

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Lauren F. says · 12.12.18

What lip stick do you have on in this picture? I really like the color. Thanks!

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Denise McNeill says · 01.04.19

I got my first lash lift 3 weeks ago. I noticed a huge difference and have only 1 issue. I am having trouble applying mascara. It goes on weird. My lashes aren’t full enough to go without. Any tips on mascara application after a lift?

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Kate says · 01.05.19

What is making the mascara application difficult?

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Denise says · 01.07.19

It seems like the texture of the lashes is different. Making the mascara seem “wet” when applying and this more difficult to work with. I have tried several all with the same problem. I could definitely be the problem and have searched threads everywhere and haven’t seen anyone else encounter this. 🤦🏻‍♀️

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June Cherry says · 01.26.19

I’m looking for a reputable lash lift person and I’m in Raleigh as well. Would you share the location you used with me? If you don’t want to share publicly, maybe a dm to b.juncherry on insta? Thanks so much!

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Lindsey says · 02.08.19

I just got a lash lift yesterday and when mascara is applied, the tips are very kinky and crazy looking! Any tips for applying mascara to a lash lift?

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Kate says · 02.08.19

uh oh. sounds like they may have messed it up a bit. hopefully they will calm down after a few days 🙁

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Harmony says · 04.01.19

I am also a cosmetologist and am interested in doing my own lash lifts. Is there a product you recommend? Thank you!

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Kate says · 04.01.19

I use a kit from Sugarlash, you can find it online!

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Camela says · 04.24.19

What at home kit do you use?

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Casey says · 07.23.19

How do you feel about at home lash lift kits? Like this?
https://opulencebeautyworldwide.com/products/premium-lash-lift-kit

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Sheri J. says · 07.27.19

I recently removed extensions and my lashes seem shorter than before. Have or do you currently use a growth serum in addition to the lift? I’m considering a lift but think I need more length beforehand. I love your blog!

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Kate says · 08.02.19

I’ve had a great experience with both Neulash (at Nordstrom) and Latisse!

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Pam says · 08.12.19

I started getting lash lifts after reading your blog. My lashes are short and straight and I’ve been using the blow dryer/lash curler trick forever. I don’t feel that I can apply mascara without curling them with the lift, but they do stay curled MUCH better and for longer. I’ve added this to my rotation of beauty treatments with roots, bayalage, eyebrow waxing, manicures and pedicures.

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Madison Bay says · 08.12.19

I know you do your own lash lifts now, where do you purchase your kit from. I too am licensed, and would love to do my own!

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Kate says · 08.13.19

The brand is Sugarlash

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Kiley says · 08.21.19

Hello, I am a licensed esthetician but I’m currently not working in any salons, but still like to do services on friends/family. My mom was telling me about how you purchased a lash lift kit, I was curious which one you use? And how well you like it?

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Brittany says · 09.25.19

What is the brand you use for the lash tint?

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Kate says · 09.26.19

Sugarlash!

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Brooke McRae says · 11.18.19

I just had a lash lift and tint done the other day – game changer – love it! May I ask what size silicone pad you use? It was suggested that I use a Medium – and my lashes are almost TOO curly. Perhaps a larger one would not have been so pronounced. Thanks in advance!

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Kate says · 11.18.19

I usually use medium!

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Alice says · 12.09.19

Does the lash lift damage the eye lashes? Perms for hair usually is damaging so I am wondering if it is similar for the lash lift.

Thanks!

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Kate says · 12.09.19

I don’t know if I can say that it’s “damaging” but it is a chemical process on hair so it changes the interior of the hair! It can cause damage, yes.

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Kaitlyn says · 12.09.19

Hi Kate – I was wondering if you’ve noticed your eyelashes looking weird towards the end of the 6-8 weeks. I don’t know if I’ve had mine curled too tight or what but a few weeks after the lift my lashes are half curled and have not. Then I can’t use an eye lash curler because they’re too curled towards my eyelid.

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Jennifer Williams says · 12.09.19

Hi Kate,
I am a professional cosmetologist for 25 years:) I would appreciate if you would share the lash lift products you were talking about in your Instagram stories today with me. Thank you for the recommendation!

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Kettj says · 12.09.19

I had 2 lash lifts done. I noticed that after a few weeks the lashes look all curly and clumpy if I tried putting on mascara and even fall out. So until the lashes grew out the lift I could not wear mascara. Why does this happen? It has made me not want lifts anymore.

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Kate says · 12.10.19

That is strange! That doesn’t sound right at all. I’d try a new place!

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Patricia Repici says · 12.10.19

I hope you can comment on this. I’ve had my lashes curled twice at a reputable place very expensive $170 each time. When I left the place lashes look great, I slept on my back as instructed first night. There after went to my regular sleeping position which is side/stomach. In a short time lashes went all wonky. They bent at right angles In mid lash and went all which ways. It was horrible and I had to wait a long time for them to grow out. This happened twice. No one can understand can you?

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Kate says · 12.10.19

Hmm, it sounds like a lash lift may not work well with your lashes for some reason. They shouldn’t be bending at 90 degrees anywhere…! I’m sorry this has happened. If I were you, I’d try a new place and if the same thing happens again I’d just skip the lash lifts altogether!.

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Pam says · 06.03.20

My lashes are also stick straight and point down. I tried this after reading your original post and the first attempt wasn’t great (uneducated tech), but have since found a tech who is competent and flexible with scheduling! This is a game changer! It’s sooo much easier to enjoy the benefits and try outs of different mascaras. My eyes are noticeably more open and I can appreciate that my lashes are longer than I thought. For me, this service has become just as important as brow waxing and covering my roots in my routine.

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Kate says · 06.03.20

I’m glad it has helped! It really made a big difference for me as well!

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Lisa McClure says · 06.05.20

I have had 2 lash lifts that did not work. Are there different types? Apparently, I have very hard to curl lashes.

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Letty says · 06.29.20

I recently got a lash lift and I loved it! Before getting a lash lift I was using an eyelash serum. Would it be okay go continue to use the eyelash serum even after the lash lift?

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Mollie Lotrecchiano says · 07.07.20

Can you please tell me who you went to for your lash lift. Thank you!

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Liz says · 10.28.20

What is the name of the lashlift kit you use?

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Kate says · 10.29.20

Ellebana

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Stacey Hopping says · 02.08.21

Help, I’ve had about 6 lash lifts over 3 years all good results. My most recent one was beginning of January, just before lockdown, I hadn’t had one for 3 months the same lady who normally does them, my eyelashes weren’t bent up so high they were touching my eyelids, they were going backwards, now they have separated into 2 layers of lashes one layer still high one at my original height, I can’t wear mascara, I can’t find anything online about your eyelashes separating into 2 layers. The beautician has recommended using caster oil, which I’m doing. Do you have any other advice?

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Kate says · 02.08.21

Sounds like the separation is between the lashes that were curled and the ones that weren’t. That could have been caused by a handful of things but I’m sorry it happened! The best thing would be wait for the natural fall out of the curled lashes and then get a new lift, maybe from someone different?

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Kina says · 05.21.21

Hi! I got my first lash lift almost 3 weeks ago and the lashes were way too overcurled- most hitting my eyelid! Any tips I can do at home to relax them faster please?

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Kelley Luckstein says · 06.04.21

Do you use a serum or moisturizer on the lashes afterwards?

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Susan says · 08.20.21

Thank you so much for explaining this. I might try it. My lashes are so light & stick straight & very thin. I have been using Rodan & Fields eye lash serum.

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Cara says · 10.05.21

I heard you can’t get your lashes wet for a period if time after a lift. Is this correct? And if so, whats the time period?

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Leah says · 10.21.21

I was told to wait 24 hours after the lift was done to get them wet or put makeup on.

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Repici Patricia says · 03.02.22

I so want curled lashes but have been twice for this service at reputable place with disastrous results. My lashes ended up going in different directions and some at right angles of bend. My lashes are super straight and long and some of them do not go straight out but I had hoped this was correctable. Afraid to go again can you comment? Technician blamed my eyelash characteristics

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Christian Kirby says · 03.22.22

Hello! I am seriously considering getting a lash lift, I live in North Carolina About an hour from Raleigh. I was wondering if you could tell me where you got your lash lift, I live in a smaller town and I’m nervous about getting a lash lift here. I would prefer to go somewhere based on the experience of someone I trust. I know you had said in a Instagram story where you had gotten yours done, I just cannot remember. Thank you so much!

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Allison says · 06.27.23

I just got a lash lift and one eye looks great and natural, but the other eye the lashes are curled back and touching my lid. Would using an eyelash curler work to “recurl” the lashes on a daily basis, or no because it’s permanently lifted this way for the time being?

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