Lash Lifts: What You Need to Know

Lash lifts are becoming increasingly popular in beauty salons. Previously known as an eyelash perm, the technique has been refined and improved by most beauty professionals over time. Unlike the classic lash perm, which used rollers and tended to hide the tips of overly curled lashes, a lash lift lifts the lashes without curling them under. This treatment adds volume to natural lashes and can also be referred to as a lash lift or lash lifting. For the best results, professionals often suggest tinting the lashes a darker shade for an even more striking effect.

The exact origin of this trend remains unclear. However, it is evident that eyelash lifting is gaining popularity in response to the growing enthusiasm for cosmetic solutions that offer natural-looking results with minimal maintenance. More and more people are looking to enhance their natural lashes without resorting to artificial extensions. Eyelash lifting offers an attractive alternative by providing long-lasting curl and a voluminous look without requiring the daily application of mascara or other cosmetic products. This simple and effective method has therefore gained popularity, making it easier to achieve a more awake and expressive look without the tedious maintenance associated with other eyelash beauty techniques. Furthermore, the influence of Hollywood stars, who all share the trait of having beautiful, well-curled lashes, has fuelled this trend toward enhancing the depth and intensity of the gaze.

Among the stars who have opted for XXL eyelashes are businesswoman Kylie Jenner, the sultry rapper Nicki Minaj, the singer with the incredible voice Adele and the very talented Christina Aguilera. This is also the case for Kim Kardashian and Lady Gaga.

We spoke to Amandine, founder of Phénix Paris, a beauty studio in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, about the different treatments she offers her clients. The beautician, whose mission is to offer high-quality, innovative treatments at accessible prices, explains that she always offers her clients the option of a lash lift, with or without tinting. "Adding the tint gives a made-up-without-makeup look (using black or brown dye). It's ideal for very light lashes, as it really intensifies the eyes," she tells us, often recommending that clients opt for both treatments together.

Before the treatment, you'll usually have a consultation with the practitioner. This is your chance to talk through your expectations, ask questions and decide on the curl style you'd like for your lashes. The treatment itself takes around 45 minutes. The beautician starts by positioning a silicone pad on the mobile eyelid, close to the lash line, then uses adhesive to secure the lashes onto this pad. Two products are applied one after the other to help the lashes hold their lifted, curled position, a technique similar to a hair perm. If you'd like a mascara-like effect, the professional finishes with tinting. Once the lift is complete, your lashes are carefully rinsed to remove any product residue. The practitioner may then apply a conditioner or nourishing serum to help keep the lashes healthy. Results are visible straight away: longer, curled and well-defined lashes. The effects of a lash lift usually last between six and eight weeks, depending on your natural lash growth cycle. It's best to avoid having this treatment too frequently, though, as it can weaken your natural lashes over time.

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Although popular, lash lifts can carry some risks. People with sensitive eyes, active eye infections or allergies to the chemicals used in the process should avoid this treatment to prevent adverse reactions. The fumes from the products used can also cause a stinging sensation for a few minutes. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also advised to consult their doctor to make sure the products used by the beautician pose no risk. Amandine also tells us that lash lifts don't always take as well on some people. For example, someone who has lash lifts done regularly will see less satisfying results than a client who has them less often. As the lashes are treated repeatedly, they can become more fragile and weakened, which can affect how well the lift holds.

Although it is possible to perform an eyelash lift at home, our expert does not recommend it. “The eyes are a sensitive part of our body, and eyelash lifting involves relatively strong products, so you have to be careful with the mucous membrane,” warns Amandine. Furthermore, the result won’t be as precise as in a salon because the positioning of the lashes requires meticulous attention; doing it with one eye closed isn’t ideal.

Gipsy graduated from ESJ Paris and spent 10 years working in general and women’s magazines before specialising in health and wellbeing. Now a certified Yin Yoga teacher, she combines her passion for writing with her love of yoga. Through her articles, she aims to share simple, practical habits that support wellbeing and encourage a more mindful approach to everyday life.

Photo credit: Photo by Tommy van Kessel on Unsplash