Lash Lift and Tint vs Extensions

When you think about professional lash enhancements, two services come to mind: lash extensions or lash lift and tint. Each has its own benefits, look, maintenance level and ideal client. Whether you’re a lash artist recommending services or a beauty lover looking to see what lash upgrade is best for you, understanding the differences between lash lift and tint vs extensions will help you make the best choice.

Overview of Lash Extensions

Before getting into the comparison between eyelash lift and tint vs extensions, let’s first get into lash extensions.

So, what are lash extensions?

Lash extensions are a semi-permanent lash enhancement that involves attaching PBT fibers to natural lashes using professional lash extension glue. Unlike strip lashes or mascara, lash extensions are meticulously individually attached to each natural lash, one by one, either in a 1:1 ratio, or in handmade or premade lash fans for added volume. (To understand more about this, see types of eyelash extensions)

Lash extensions are designed to stay in place for several weeks, giving you the appearance of longer, fuller lashes without lifting a finger in the morning. Okay, okay, you still have to wash them, but minimal finger lifting is involved.

Lash extensions shed with your natural lash cycle, so fills are recommended every 2-3 weeks for upkeep.

What is a Lash Lift and Tint?

 

On the other hand, a lash lift and tint is essentially a two-step lash treatment that can be performed together. It enhances your natural lashes by making them look more lifted, and darker, which can make them appear longer, all without adding any extensions or false lashes.

A lash lift is essentially a perm for your natural lashes. During the service, an esthetician will place a silicone shield or rod on your eyelids and carefully lift your lashes over the form. Then, 3 different steps are applied to the lashes to help first break down the bonds, then re-set them in the desired curl. This results in lashes that are more defined, curled, and look longer.

A lash tint is an additional step that can be added to a lash lift service (typically between steps 2 and 3) where a lash-safe dye is applied to darken the lashes. This is especially beneficial for those with lighter lashes, as it can deepen the color to a deeper brown or back.

The result? The appearance of mascara without the need to reapply daily, that can last anywhere from 6-8 weeks.

Lash Lift and Tint vs Extensions: Key Differences to Consider

Now that we know all about lash extensions and lash lift and tint, let’s start comparing the two. We are going to break down the main differences between lash lift and tint vs extensions across the categories that matter the most to clients and professionals alike.

Application Time and Complexity

One of the reasons you may choose eyelash lift and tint vs extensions could be based on application time and complexity.

• Depending on the style and artist, a full set of lash extensions can take anywhere between 1.5 to 3 hours. Lash extensions are very complex, as precision and technique are essential as each lash is isolated with the extension applied to each individual lash.

• A lash lift and tint can take anywhere from 45 to 60 minutes. This process is simpler, as well as faster, as lashes are not applied individually and follow up fills are not required.

If application time and complexity are your main concern, and you’re someone who can’t sit still for long periods of time, or are always on the go, the shorter timeline for lash lifts can be a win. On the other hand, if you’re someone who treats maintenance appointments like me-time and don’t mind the longer appointments, consider lash extensions!

Maintenance and Longevity

Another important thing to consider when deciding between lash lift and tint vs extensions is maintenance and longevity.

• Between the two options, lash extensions are definitely a lot more high maintenance. Fills are essential every 2-3 weeks as the extensions shed with your natural lash cycle. On top of that, it’s recommended for clients to avoid oil-based products, rubbing their eyes, and sleeping on their face for best results and for maximum retention.

• On the other hand, lash lift and tints are pretty low maintenance. Results can last up to 6-8 weeks depending on lash growth cycle, no fills are required, and clients can even wear mascara. For best results, we do recommend using a serum, like rehydrate and restore serum to moisturize the lashes.

For both, we still recommend washing your lashes, but between the two, when it comes to maintenance and longevity is lash lift and tint better than extensions? We’d say yes.

Look and Finish

We’d say one of the main factors to consider when deciding between lash lift and tint vs extensions is the look and finish.

• Lash extensions can be anywhere from subtle to dramatic depending on the style you choose, and both volume and length can be customized.

• Lash lift and tint enhances what your client already naturally has, eliminating the need to curl lashes. The result is clean, curled and defined lashes. Mascara is optional, giving a no-make makeup look.

For this, it is entirely up to preference. If your client has long lashes already, they might just need a lash lift and tint to give them a little extra pop. If your client prefers a little more drama, lash extensions are the way to go.

Ideal Client Type

As a lash artist, it’s important to consider your ideal client type when deciding to recommend lash lift and tint vs extensions.

• The best candidates for lash extensions are clients who want maximum volume or texture, or those with sparse lashes as extensions will fill in some of those gaps, or those who love a full glam appearance daily. The ideal client doesn’t mind coming in every couple weeks for these results.

• Lash lift and tint is ideal for clients who already have healthy natural lashes and prefer a natural look, or want minimal upkeep. This is also a great alternative for those clients who are sensitive to lash extensions or adhesive.

When recommending between eyelash lift and tint vs extensions to your clients, you want to be sure to consider your clients’ needs and expectations.

Cost and Upkeep

Another huge thing to consider when it comes to lash lift and tint vs extensions is cost and upkeep, as they are very different.

• Lash extensions have a higher upfront cost at the initial full set appointment. After that, fills are required every few weeks adding to the total cost.

• Lash lift and tints have a lower cost and fewer appointments, since they last much longer, and there are no maintenance appointments.

So based on cost and upkeep is lash lift and tint better than lash extensions? Not necessarily. While lash extensions do have a higher price point, with upkeep, it really just depends on your clients preferences. Some clients prefer the look of lash extensions and don’t mind paying. It’s all about balance.

So, is Lash Lift and Tint Better Than Extensions?

There is no universal answer for what is better between eyelash lift and tint vs extensions. At the end of the day, there’s just the best match for the client's goals, budget and lifestyle. While some prefer the convenience of lash lifts, others love the dramatic payoff and look of extensions. It’s all about the desired look and level of upkeep.

Plus, what your client chooses doesn’t have to be a forever choice. It’s easy to switch between both depending on season, schedule and financial situations… just what feels right for right now.

When a Lash Lift and Tint Might Be the Better Option

At the end of all this, let’s quickly recap who lash lift and tints are better for.

We recommend lash lift and tints for clients who:

• Want a natural effortless look

• Prefer a low-maintenance beauty routine

• Have healthy, straight, or light colored lashes

• Are sensitive to lash extension adhesives

• Want to avoid regular fills whether it’s for financial reasons or just because they don’t want to come back every few weeks

When Eyelash Extensions Are Worth the Investment

Eyelash extensions are not worth the investment for everyone, but there is still a lot of clients who they are great for.

We recommend lash extensions for clients who:

• Want longer, thicker lashes than their natural ones

• Love a glam, bold eye look

• Are okay with regular maintenance and fills

• Have shorter or sparser natural lashes

• Want to skip mascara and look glam daily

Source All the Essentials for Any Lash Service at PLA Pro!

Whether you’re offering lash lifts, tints, or lash extension sets, PLA has every professional tool you need. From premium lash lift and tint kits to all the eyelash extension supplies you can think of, our collection produces expert results and satisfied clients.

We’ve stocked up on all the favorites that beauty professionals swear by, so you can deliver your best work every time. No matter what you’re looking for, with the best lash supplies for the best lash artists in the world, PLA is your number one source for wholesale lashes!

Bringing Our Eyelash Lift and Tint vs Extensions Comparison to a Close

Choosing between a lash lift and tint or eyelash extensions comes down to personal preference and lifestyle. Both are amazing services to offer (and you should definitely offer both). Having a solid understanding of both will help you guide clients (or make the best choice for yourself).

If you’re still unsure which to choose… try both! You can always switch later, that’s the beauty of lashes. You don’t have to commit forever.