Your Complete Guide to Eyelash Extensions, Lifts, Perms, and Tinting Services

Which Eyelash Service Is Right for You? 

It’s important to note that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all lash service, so it’s important to go to a lash studio or salon with professional lash stylists. “I always suggest doing your research to find the right lash stylist in your city just like you would research a great hair colorist or personal trainer,” says Richardson. Then, even after you’ve found your lash stylist, keep in mind that your specific eye shape or your ideal look might lend itself to a service you’re not familiar with, so rely on the stylist’s expertise. 

Eyelash Extensions

What It Is: “Lash extensions are semi-permanent synthetic, faux mink or silk fibers that are applied strand-by-strand to your natural lashes to enhance your natural eye,” says Richardson. “They are carefully applied one at a time (typically 80-140 per eye) using a specially formulated, semi-permanent glue that shouldn’t irritate or damage the natural lash. The lash is only applied to an existing lash, not the skin. The process takes anywhere from one to two hours depending on the desired volume. Clients lay comfortably with their eyes closed for the duration of the application process.”

Who It’s For: “For those looking for a more dramatic look, lash extensions are a great option and can be customized much more than other lash services,” says Richardson. “There are so many options to choose from when it comes to extensions, ranging from the size of the curl to the length of the lash. At Envious Lashes, we take the first five minutes to have a detailed consultation with every client. This includes asking them what look or style they want to achieve, showing them pictures from our previous work and discussing their individual needs and concerns.” 

How Long It Lasts: Up to six weeks.

Eyelash Lift or Perm

What It Is: “A lash lift (also known as a lash perm) curls your lash from the base to tip so that you can see its full length,” says Richardson. “It should be done carefully by a licensed and certified professional. It’s a fast service that lasts four to six weeks and can transform your lashes in 45 minutes to one hour. Lash lifts will enhance your natural lashes at a minimal level. They won’t create texture, add color, contour, shape or dimension to your eyes. Disclaimer: You must have at least a 4mm lash to get the service.”

Who It’s For: “Lash lifts are ideal for those who don’t want the maintenance or added volume of extensions. You don’t need to come in as frequently for touch-ups as you do with extensions.”

How Long It Lasts: Four to six weeks.

Eyelash Tinting

What It Is: Eyelash tinting is when a technician will brush dye onto your lashes to make them more noticeable. This is especially beneficial for those with light or blonde eyelashes. “This quick service only takes 15 minutes from start to finish and is a great pick-me-up for those looking to darken their lashes,” says Richardson. 

Who It’s For: “It’s great for those who want to achieve effortlessly awake-looking eyes — they’re your natural lashes, only better.”

How Long It Lasts: Three to four weeks.

What It Is: Eyelash tinting is when a technician will brush dye onto your lashes to make them more noticeable. This is especially beneficial for those with light or blonde eyelashes. “This quick service only takes 15 minutes from start to finish and is a great pick-me-up for those looking to darken their lashes,” says Richardson.

Who It’s For: “It’s great for those who want to achieve effortlessly awake-looking eyes — they’re your natural lashes, only better.” 

How Long It Lasts: Three to four weeks.

How to Care for Your Lashes After a Service

After investing in an eyelash service, proper aftercare is essential to prolong your results and maintain the health of your natural lashes.  

For Lash Extensions: Avoid all oil-based makeup removers and cleansers, as oil can break down the adhesive bond. We recommend gently cleansing with an oil-free formula like the La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Ultra for Sensitive Skin. To enhance your look for a special occasion, you can apply mascara to the tips of your extensions, but make sure it is a water-based, non-waterproof formula. Never use waterproof mascara.  

For Lash Lifts and Tints: For the first 24-48 hours after your service, you must keep your lashes completely dry and avoid steam. After that period, you can treat them as normal. To keep your lifted lashes looking their best, you can apply a mascara like Lancôme's Le 8 Hypnôse Serum-Infused Mascara, which adds volume while also helping to nourish your lashes.  

For All Lash Services: To support the health of your natural lashes between appointments, consider incorporating a lash serum into your routine. While many are available, always check with your lash technician to ensure the formula is compatible with your specific service.

Your Lash Service Questions, Answered

What is the most natural-looking eyelash service?  
A lash lift and tint is the most natural-looking eyelash service. This combination works exclusively with your own natural lashes, curling them from the root to make them appear longer and dyeing them to make them look darker and more defined. The result is an enhanced version of your own lashes, as if you're wearing a perfect coat of curling mascara.  

Which eyelash service is least damaging?  
When performed by a certified professional, both a lash lift and a lash tint are considered very low-risk and minimally damaging because they only treat your existing lashes. Eyelash extensions can also be safe, but they carry a higher risk of potential damage to natural lashes if they are too heavy, applied incorrectly, or not cared for properly, which can cause strain and breakage.  

Can you wear mascara with a lash lift?  
Yes, you can absolutely wear mascara with a lash lift. In fact, many people find that mascara application is easier and looks better after a lift because the lashes are already perfectly curled. Just be sure to wait 24-48 hours after your appointment before applying any makeup. We recommend a nourishing formula like Lancôme's Le 8 Hypnôse Serum-Infused Mascara.  

How much do eyelash services typically cost?  
The cost of eyelash services varies widely by location and the technician's experience. Generally, a full set of eyelash extensions is the most expensive, often ranging from $150 to $350. A lash lift is typically in the range of $75 to $150, and a standalone eyelash tint is the most affordable, often costing between $25 and $50.  

What lasts longer, a lash lift or extensions?  
A lash lift lasts longer in terms of the service cycle. A single lash lift will last the entire life cycle of your natural lashes, typically 4-6 weeks, without needing any touch-ups. Eyelash extensions require fills every 2-3 weeks to replace the extensions that have shed with your natural lashes, making them a more frequent maintenance commitment.  

Is a lash perm the same as a lash lift? 
Yes, a lash perm and a lash lift are essentially the same service, but the modern "lash lift" uses updated techniques and formulas. While older lash perms used harsher chemicals and a rounded rod that could sometimes make lashes look overly curled, a modern lash lift uses a curved silicone shield and gentler solutions to create a more flattering "lifted" effect from the base of the lash.