Confused Between a Lash Lift or a Lash Perm? We Lay Out All the Deets on These Trending Treatments

We’ll be real for a second–we love the look that mascara gives, but it honestly just takes too much effort sometimes. We don’t always have the time to carefully do our lashes in the morning, only for them to smudge halfway through the day. Welp.

Thankfully, the beauty gods and experts have developed several convenient alternatives in this regard. And no, we’re not talking about lash extensions, because that does also take a considerable amount of effort and frequency to maintain. 

We’re actually talking about lash lifts and lash perms–two relatively low maintenance procedures that are often mixed up and interchangeably used. So, we break down their differences and benefits below for your perusal.

What’s the difference between lash lifts and lash perms?

Lash lifts and lash perms are nearly identical in all aspects–procedure, results, aftercare, and the likes. The main difference is in the curling and lifting technique.

Lash Lift

A lash lift, or eyelash lamination, is a semi-permanent procedure that’s often seen as the more modern version of a lash perm. Here, the natural lashes are boosted from the root to make them appear more full, distinct, and lengthed. 

Essentially, the results are meant to give you naturally-looking lifted lashes that showcase their full length of each individual lash.

Lash Perm

A lash perm is sort of the older variant of a lash lift. It’s also a semi-permanent chemical treatment where the lashes are curled to give them a more defined, natural look. While the results are nearly identical, lash perms use a different curling and lifting technique where cylindrical rods or curlers are used.

What’s the procedure for a lash lift?

Lash lifts are non-invasive and painless procedures, even when chemicals are involved. Your eyes will be closed the entire time, which should only take less than an hour.

First, the aesthetician will separate your lower lashes from your upper lashes by sticking them down. A silicone rod or pad will then be placed on top of the root of your upper lashes. A special serum will be applied and your lashes will be “glued” on the silicone one by one to curl and give them that lifted look you’re going for.

In some cases, volumizers, tints, or other nourishing treatments, such as keratin, are also applied, depending on your preference or availed package.

Afterwards, the aesthetician will clean and brush your lashes to make sure that there’s no residue left. 

What’s the procedure for a lash perm?

The lash perm process is exactly the same as a lash lift. The only difference is that instead of silicone rods or pads, specialized cylindrical rods or curlers are used. The perming solution will also be left for a few minutes after each lash has been curled up and the entire process lasts about an hour.

How do I take care of my lash lift or lash perm?

The best thing about lash lifts and lash perms is that they’re both super low maintenance. Most of the aftercare is only within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. Here are a few things to remember during this time:

• Do NOT get your lashes wet for 24 hours after the procedure.
• Do NOT wear eye makeup or apply any harsh products on your lash area after 48 hours.
• Do NOT rub your lashes.
• Do NOT go swimming, use saunas, or expose your lashes to heat within 48 hours after the procedure.
• Do NOT get any other beauty treatments on your face after 24 hours.
  

How long does a lash lift  or a lash perm last?

With proper care and maintenance, lash lifts and lash perms can last anywhere from four to six weeks. The duration will vary depending on how fast your lashes grow. It’s recommended to wait at least four weeks before getting another lash lift or perm procedure done.

Are lash lifts and lash perms damaging to eyelashes?

Lash lifts and lash perms are not damaging to your natural lashes, if they’re properly done by a professional. It’s important to do your research and go to a reputable establishment when getting a lash lift or perm.

Can I wear mascara even with a lash lift or a lash perm?

Yes! Just remember to wait at least 24 hours for the solution to completely set before doing so.

While many people get lash lifts or lash perms to skip wearing mascara, some days you really just want a more dramatic look. And when you do, avoid using waterproof mascara as these are typically more difficult to remove. Oil-based makeup removers are no-nos, so stick to a water-based cleanser in removing your mascara.

Are lash lifts or lash perms better than eyelash extensions?

Whether or not lash lifts or lash perms are better than eyelash extensions depends on personal preference! Eyelash extensions are great for elevating your look and giving your lashes a more dramatic feature, but they do require a bit more effort to maintain. Lash lifts or lash perms, on the other hand, are much easier to maintain and are good if what you’re trying to achieve is a more natural, everyday look.

How much do lash lifts or lash perms cost in the Philippines?

Lash lifts or lash perms can easily set you back upwards of P1,500 to P5,000 (or more!). Some salons or aesthetic centers will add tints or keratin to the base package, which could pile on the cost.

But Besties, here’s a beauty hack for you: if you check out Parlon, you can score lash lift deals for as low as P599 and lash perms for P599, as well! You know we don’t gatekeep around here! 😉

Discover, book, and buy more incredible beauty and wellness deals from Parlon. Keep in touch with us, too, on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok.