What is an Eyelash Lift?

 A Eyelash lift Melbourne lift is essentially like getting your hair perm but without the damage. But it's important to do your research before booking an appointment.

I caught up with Mikelle Brown, a lash expert and esthetician at Face Foundrie, and Veronica Tran, a esthetician at Pretty in the City to find out more about this low-maintenance service.

How It Works

The lash lift is a non-toxic treatment that uses a mix of chemicals to give your natural eyelashes a new shape. Some technicians call it a 'lash perm,' although it doesn’t make your lashes longer or thicker (it does, however, make them look denser).

The process is safe for most people, especially when done by a certified beauty expert in a clean and sterile environment. But you should always do a patch test beforehand to ensure your skin isn’t sensitive to any of the products used.

Before the treatment begins, your technician will thoroughly cleanse your eyes and remove any makeup or skincare products around your lashes. They will then carefully glue a silicone pad (which comes in different sizes) on your upper eyelids. The size of the pad will determine the intensity of your final curl. The solution is then applied to your lashes and left to sit for about 15 minutes. The lashes are then removed from the rod and topped off with a neutralizing product to help strengthen the new curl.

The Process

A lash lift is the best solution for straight lashes that are difficult to curl with an eyelash curler or have become brittle from regular use. The process is simple and your lashes look amazing afterwards.

The treatment involves applying a safe adhesive to your natural lashes and then using a lifting lotion, followed by a conditioning serum. The procedure takes about 45 minutes to complete.

It is important to find a technician who has the right certification to perform a lash lift and tint. Your eyes are a sensitive area and the chemicals used can cause serious irritation, burning and blisters if applied to the wrong skin type or by an untrained professional.

Cordi and Buhler both say that they rarely see clients who react badly to a lash lift, but they suggest doing your research, finding a certified salon and stylist, and always insisting on a patch test. That way, you’ll be less likely to experience any problems.

The Results

A lash lift isn’t actually a perm (it’s also not an extension), but instead a treatment that uses chemicals to curl the eyelashes upwards. It can be combined with a tint to boost density and add color, or it can simply give the natural lashes a more refreshed look. It’s also relatively long-lasting – the results can last 6-8 weeks.

First of all, your lashes will be cleansed thoroughly before the treatment begins to ensure that there’s no makeup or skincare residue. A rod-shaped silicone pad will then be glued to the upper lids, with the size of the pad determining the intensity of the final curl.

It’s generally safe for most people to get a lash lift, but Cordi and Buhler both say that it’s crucial to find a certified and experienced technician, especially as the perming solution could potentially cause chemical burns or scarring on delicate eyelid skin. It’s also worth booking a patch test beforehand to check for any allergic reactions to the product.

The Aftercare

It’s essential that clients know that their lashes will need some extra attention in order to maintain the best results, even after the lash lift has been done. Remind them to keep their eyes clean and dry for the first 24 hours post treatment, avoid rubbing or touching their eyes, oil-based products and sunlight exposure (if tinting has been applied).

Using a lash serum every night for two weeks before a lash lift will help strengthen natural lashes and prepare them for the lifting process. It also helps prevent the lashes from breaking or getting brittle.

Eyelash lifts are becoming more and more popular as an alternative to lash extensions which can be expensive over the long term. They are a more affordable option that will last for the life of your lash cycle and will still give you that luscious look without the need to apply mascara. It’s important to find a qualified and experienced technician, so be sure to do your research and read reviews before booking an appointment!