Lash lift vs lash extensions
A lash lift curls and tints your own lashes and lasts about 6 to 8 weeks with no upkeep. Lash extensions add length and volume by gluing fibres onto your lashes, and need fills every 2 to 3 weeks.
The short version
Choose a lash lift if you want your own lashes to look longer, curled and darker, and you don’t want to book fills. Choose extensions if you want visible length or volume beyond what your natural lashes have, and you’re happy to come back every few weeks.
Side by side
| Lash lift | Lash extensions | |
|---|---|---|
| What it uses | Your own lashes | Synthetic fibres glued to your lashes |
| Look | Your lashes, curled and darker | Added length and volume |
| Lasts | About 6 to 8 weeks | Fills every 2 to 3 weeks |
| Upkeep | Keep dry for 24 hours, then brush up | Avoid oil-based products, book fills |
| Glue near the lash line | No | Yes |
How each one works
A lash lift sets your natural lashes in an upward curl from the root, then a tint darkens them from root to tip. Nothing is added to your lashes.
Extensions are individual synthetic fibres glued to each natural lash. They add length and fullness, but they shed with your natural lashes, so they need regular fills to stay full.
Upkeep
A lash lift needs almost nothing. Keep your lashes dry for the first day, then brush them up in the morning. Most people rebook every 6 to 8 weeks.
Extensions need more care. Oil-based products can loosen the glue, and most people book fills every 2 to 3 weeks.
Cost over time
A lash lift is one appointment roughly every two months. Extensions are a full set followed by regular fills, which usually adds up to more per year. Check the prices page for current lash lift pricing.
Which is right for you
If you mostly want to stop curling your lashes and wearing mascara every day, a lash lift is usually the better fit. If you want a dramatic, full lash look every day, extensions do something a lift can’t.
Questions
Which looks more natural, a lash lift or extensions?
A lash lift. It only uses your own lashes, so the result looks like your lashes on their best day with mascara on.
Can I switch from extensions to a lash lift?
Yes. Have your extensions fully removed or let them grow out first, so the lift is done on your natural lashes only.
Is a lash lift better for sensitive eyes?
There is no glue near your lash line, which many people with sensitive eyes prefer. Your eyes stay closed for the whole appointment. Mention any sensitivities when you book.