Lash lifts are one of our most popular treatments here at Secret Spa, and it’s easy to see why. Beautiful, enhanced lashes with minimum effort. We get a lot of questions about lash lifts, so we have put together a guide which explains everything you need to know. From how long a lash lift lasts to whether you can wear mascara – we answer all your frequently asked questions.

What is a lash lift?

Usually referred to as a lash lift and tint, a lash lift permanently curls your eyelashes whilst dying them darker. This gives a natural but striking look of long, dark, lustrous lashes. It’s like a mini-perm and colour for your eyelashes, enabling you to hop out of bed each day with fabulous lashes and no effort.

Lash lifts are different from lash extensions because they work only with your existing lashes. There’s no glue or artificial lashes used at all (unless you request the odd one in a sparse patch). Instead, a lash lift ensures your natural lashes look their very best by lifting each individual lash, then dying it, to make it look thicker and longer.

A lash lift is low maintenance and the process usually takes around one hour. A small rod is used to curl and set the lashes. If you’ve not had a lash lift before, we do recommend a patch test at least 48 hours in advance.

What is an LVL lash lift?

An LVL lash lift is the branded lash lift from Nouveau Lashes. It works similarly to a standard lash lift, but brings the reassurance and professionalism of a well-known name.

How long does a lash lift last?

The effects of a lash lift last for up to 8 weeks so it is really worth it for the hassle-free time between treatments. Your eyelashes naturally shed and are replaced through new growth. Depending on the speed of your own lash replacement cycle, you may need the treatment repeating sooner.

The tint element of a lash lift doesn’t last as long as the lift itself. You can expect the tinting to start fading at around the 3 week mark.

How long does a lash lift take?

Lash lifts typically take around an hour to complete. It’s a focused and relaxing treatment which isn’t uncomfortable in any way. 

How much is a lash lift?

At Secret Spa, a lash lift and tint costs just £60 for a 1 hour treatment. A LVL Nouveau Lashes lash lift takes around the same time and is also competitively priced at £65. Prices at salons depend on location and the individual therapist. Having a lash lift and tint or LVL Nouveau Lashes treatment at a competitive price in the comfort of your home is likely to be an appealing option.

Lash lift aftercare

In order to get the best result from your lash lift treatment for as long as possible, here are some key lash lift aftercare tips.

How long after a lash lift can I shower?

To ensure the best salon-like look for as long as possible, avoid a shower or humid environment for 48 hours after your lash lift until it has fully set. If you do shower in those first couple of days, make it speedy and try to keep water off of your face.

Also during the first few days, take extra care washing your face. Try to keep water away from your lashes where possible. You can use cotton pads or wipes for those few days, allowing you to avoid the area.

Can you wear mascara after a lash lift?

Again, we recommend that you avoid mascara for 48 hours after a lash lift. As long as a tint has been done at the same time, as is common, then this isn’t a problem as your lashes will naturally look darker and thicker. However, once the tint element starts to fade at around the 3 week mark, wearing mascara is absolutely fine. Just make sure that you use an oil-free formula and oil-free make-up remover.

We also recommend that you avoid waterproof mascara. This is because it’s much harder to remove and this can affect the look of your lash lift. But we promise that having a lash lift and tint removes the need for heavy mascara altogether!

What about eyeliner?

Again, you’ll probably find that you don’t feel so desperate to reach for eyeliner once you’ve had a lash lift and tint. However, if you’d like to continue using an eyeliner, wait until the first 48 hours have passed and use an oil-free eyeliner.

Does lash lifting damage your eyelashes?

Lash lifts are often chosen partially because it is considerably less damaging to your eyelashes than extensions. Indeed, some beauticians will assert that last lifts are less damaging to eyelashes than daily application and removal of eye make-up. Some individuals do find that the setting chemicals can make their eyelashes brittle, making them easier to snap. However, this is one reason why we always recommend a patch test at least 48 hours before your treatment, if you haven’t had a lash lift before.

Lash lift pros and cons

The pros of a lash lift far outweigh the cons. Lash lifts suit everyone, simply enhancing your natural lashes to appear  longer and fuller with increased volume, without any fake lashes. What’s more, they are more affordable and easier to have done,  whilst also lasting longer. If you want to wear eye makeup with a lash lift and tint, you can, after just a couple of days. After the first 48 hours you can swim, work out and generally treat them as your own lashes, making them much more low-maintenance than lash extensions.

Most of the drawbacks are limited to not using a professional trained beautician. So just make sure that you choose an expert beauty therapist, like one of our professionals here at Secret Spa. 

All in all, lash lifts are an increasingly popular treatment because of the fantastic results, low cost and low maintenance. Book a lash lift or LVL Nouveau Lashes at home.