Dark, long eyelashes are the trend – for a good reason. Long, full lashes can help draw attention to your eyes, creating the illusion of more enormous eyes and thus making you appear more attractive. If you’ve ever seen someone with lash extensions, you’ll see that their eyes are the first thing you notice – they pop.
But lash extensions aren’t for everyone. And if they aren’t for you, there are other options. We’re talking about lash lifts and lash perms. But what’s the difference? Let’s talk.
What Is A Lash Lift?
A Lash Lift is a pain-free procedure that can help give you the appearance of longer, fuller lashes. Unlike extensions that add length to your lashes, Lash lifts work with your natural lashes to help boost what you already have. Lash lifts gently lift your lashes from the base, curling them as they lift.
Here’s how it works. First, a silicone pad will be placed over your eyelids. You won’t be able to see anything throughout the procedure, so this is a great time to just lay back and relax! During this time, your lashes will be curled upward and outward over top of the mould.
Each lash will be separated individually, and a solution will then be placed on the root of the eyelash for 10-15 minutes. A setting solution will then be applied to help the lashes hold their shape. Finally, the lashes will be conditioned, and tint will be applied (if you wish).
What is A Lash Perm?
Before Lash Lifts came around, there was the Lash Perm. Unlike Lash Lifts which use moulds to help shape your lashes, perms use small silicone rods to create curl.
Here’s how it works. First, an adhesive will be applied to your upper eyelid and a small rod will be placed between your lashes and your lids.
From here, a perming solution is applied to your lashes, and your lashes are rolled around the rod and then wrapped in plastic for about 15 minutes until they have set into place. The solution will then be washed off, and your lashes will be combed out and conditioned.
Lash Lift Vs. Lash Perm – Chemicals
Let’s start with the Lash Perm. While there can be several different chemicals used within lash perm solutions, one of the main chemicals used is known as Ammonium thioglycolate. This is the chemical that is used to break down the protein bonds in the lashes, allowing them to take the proper shape.
This ingredient has been listed as safe for use in cosmetics and beauty products, but should only be used by a trained and experienced professional. It’s considered a low-risk ingredient, but can be associated with allergies and immunotoxicity. In regards to Lash Lifts, the process uses chemicals that are similar to that of a perm.
That said, what chemicals are used in a lash lift depends on the solution the technician uses. The main concern in these solutions is a chemical known as sodium bromate, and this chemical is considered carcinogenic, meaning it has a known link to cancer.
If this is a concern for you, you can opt for the YUMI Lash Lifts. YUMI Lash lifts are formaldehyde and paraben-free and do not use sodium bromate. Instead, their main ingredient is Keratin – a protein that is already naturally occurring within our bodies.
Lash Lift Vs. Perm – Results
The main difference between Lash Lifts and Perms (aside from the technique used) is the results. Lash lifts are designed to lift your natural lashes from the base, making them curlier and giving them the illusion of more length. In return, your natural eyelashes look like they have extensions added to them.
Lash Perms, on the other hand, curls your lashes along their length (as opposed to from the base). In other words, they don’t lift the lash the same way that a lash lift does.
In return, a perm will give a beautiful curl to your lashes, but won’t help to elongate them. In some cases, the new curl can actually make your lashes look shorter.
In return, Lash Lifts are best suited to those who have short lashes, or those who want to add length to their lashes. On the other hand, Lash Perms are best for those who already have long lashes and simply want to add some definition and curl.
Lash Lift Vs. Lash Perm – Preparation
Neither the Lash Liftnorr nor the Lash Perm requires much preparation. Lash technicians will simply request that you remove any makeup before your appointment and that you avoid applying any oils to your lashes in the days before your visit.
Both Lash Lifts and Lash Perms will require an initial consultation. If you have never had a lash lift or perm before, your lash technician may require you to do a patch test to ensure that you are not allergic to any chemicals being used.
In preparation for your appointment, you should set aside about 45 mins to 1 hour for a lash lift. Lash perms also take around 1 hour to complete.
Lash Lift Vs. Lash Perm – Maintenance
A Lash Perm typically lasts between 4-12 weeks, and a Lift usually lasts between 6-12 weeks. With that being said, your natural lash cycle will significantly affect how long your perms and lifts will last.
Of course, how well you care for and maintain your lashes will also play a significant role. If you want your lashes to last, you should avoid heavy water flow for 24 hours following your appointment (this is true for both lifts and perms). Common sense will also tell you to avoid rubbing your eyes, using oils on your lashes, or picking at your lashes. Brushing them on a daily basis can also help to keep them looking their best.
If properly cared for, your perms or lifts should last at least four weeks; after this time, you can have them redone. With that being said, to avoid damage to your natural lashes, you should wait at least 4 weeks in between treatments.
Lash Lift Vs. Lash Perm – Safety
When performed by a professional lash technician, lash lifts and perms are both considered to be safe procedures. With that being said, there are risks involved, most commonly related to the chemicals that are used.
If you have an allergic reaction to one of the chemicals used in a lift or perm, you may experience redness, rash, dry eyes, watery eyes, inflammation, or even blisters. Solutions that are left on too long can also cause damage to your natural lashes, causing your lashes to change the texture or fall out.
This is why we always emphasize the importance of doing your diligence and using an experienced lash professional. Lash chemicals should never fall into the hands of unlicensed practitioners, and allowing this to happen can result in unnecessary risks and unwanted side effects.
Lash Lift Vs. Lash Perm – Which Is The Best Option For You?
It depends on your personal preferences. If you’re worried about using chemicals on your lashes, we suggest you stick with a YUMI Lash Lift, which takes a more natural approach to lift. If this isn’t a concern, we suggest you consider the look you’re looking for.
If you simply want to forgo the lash curler on a daily basis, a lash perm will serve you well. But if you’re looking for longer lashes that will make your eyes pop, skip the perm and go for a lift.