A lash lift can work wonders, giving you lifted, eye-catching lashes that make your eyes pop and causing you to look more awake. However, like any beauty treatment, it’s not always smooth sailing. Many people experience common complications that can impact their results or even damage their lashes if not handled properly.
An eyelash lift is a beauty treatment performed by a licensed professional. Like a perm for your hair, an eyelash lift uses special chemicals to curl your lashes. Treatment starts at the lash line and is often accompanied by eyelash tinting to darken and thicken your lashes.
Sometimes called a “lash perm,” an eyelash lift offers a longer-lasting alternative to products that enhance, brighten or curl your eyelashes, such as mascara, eyelash curlers, thickening serums like Latisse, and false eyelashes or lash extensions. While these other methods require repeated use for a consistent look, an eyelash lift lasts six to eight weeks and requires little maintenance during that time.
Before you arrive at the salon, be sure to wash your face, remove any makeup and take out your contact lenses. You may also be advised to stop wearing mascara several days before your procedure to help prevent any residue from building up.
During the appointment, your technician will start with a consultation to ensure they understand what kind of curl you want: soft and natural or tight and dramatic. They’ll also help you understand what’s possible based on your natural eye shape and lash length. When that’s settled, the technician will start by thoroughly cleaning the area around your eyes. Then they’ll glue a silicone pad or curling rod to each of your upper eyelids, curl your lashes up over the pad or rod, and glue your lashes in place. Next, your technician will apply a series of chemical solutions to your eyelashes to lift them and set their curl. Make sure to keep your eyes closed tightly during the procedure to prevent any chemicals from getting in your eyes.
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The procedure takes about 45 minutes to an hour from start to finish, and typically costs around $75 to $150.
Lash lifts can be transformative, but if things go wrong, the results can be disappointing. Recognizing issues early is key to addressing them effectively. Some common lash lift complications include overly curled lashes, dryness, irritation, and uneven results. By understanding what can go awry, you’ll be better prepared to troubleshoot and achieve the flawless look you want.
Since lash lifts are a relatively new procedure, little information is available about the potential for side effects. However, there are reports of post-procedure side effects in firsthand reviews.
While lash lifts are advertised as being safe, the process itself involves chemicals, including manufactured keratin. Aesthetician often apply a glue to the eyelid to position a silicone roller, which they use to shape your lashes. Chemicals break up the disulfide bonds in strands of hair, making it possible to reshape the hair. The application of another solution “sets” the new shape and stops the initial process of reforming the disulfide bonds in your hair. Lash lifts are sometimes combined with tinting, which often means more chemicals applied to your eye area.
Skin irritation is perhaps the greatest risk of the procedure. While protective pads are placed along your lash line to prevent the keratin glue from getting on your skin, this method isn’t completely foolproof. You might also be more prone to irritation due to the chemicals contained in the solution if you have a history of dry eye, allergies, and eye or skin sensitivities.
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Side effects from the solution include:
If the solution lands in your eye, the likely outcome is considerable irritation or even a burn or ulcer. As well, you risk corneal abrasion if you rub your irritated eye or it gets accidentally scratched or otherwise traumatized. Aside from the solution itself causing irritation, working with an inexperienced practitioner can also increase your risk of side effects during the application process. Damaged hair is a possibility with any chemicals or traction applied to your strands. This can lead to temporary hair loss.
One of the main concerns with getting a lash lift is the potential for an allergic reaction. People can often have a sensitivity to fragrances or added chemicals. An allergic reaction to a lash lift procedure can often include the following symptoms around your eyes:
There’s also a lack of clarity about the chemicals that are actually being used. Ideally, a test patch can give your technician a good idea if you’re going to have an allergic reaction. However, that’s not always a guarantee. Overall, it’s best practice to at least have a patch test done prior.
Another thing to be cautious about is overprocessing. Just like getting your hair dyed - after a certain number of times, it can damage it in the long run. So, too, can eyelash procedures. These lash lifts are chemically altering your hair, as well as affecting a very sensitive part of your face. Any kind of overprocessing simply speeds up the thinning out of your hair that happens with age. The same goes for your lashes. If you’re always applying some sort of chemical to these lash follicles, it changes them over time.
Read also: Duo Lash Glue: Ingredients Explained
Aside from allergic reactions, lash lifts can also cause some other eye-related conditions that you do not want to deal with. Doing any kind of intense cosmetic procedures to your lashes (even extensions or fake lashes) can make you more prone to conditions like blepharitis or inflammation of the eyelids.
Eye hygiene is at times overlooked when people are getting cosmetic procedures like this. For example, after getting a lash lift, your technician may recommend not cleaning the area so as not to interfere with it. But this can be an infection waiting to happen. You want to keep your eyelashes clean because that lets things build up. Sometimes, some of these eyelash treatments can make you more prone to infections.
As far as long-term effects go, there’s still limited research on how lash lifts can impact your lash growth and eye health in the coming years. We don’t know what the long-term potential effects are. There’s a lot we still don’t know, and we’re only going to figure out later on if it’s a bad idea or not, especially when it comes to applying chemicals right around our eyes.
One common issue with lash lifts is an over-curled result that can look unnatural or even uncomfortable. Over-curling can happen if the lifting solution is left on for too long or if the wrong rod size is used. To fix over-curled lashes, try using a lash serum or gentle mascara wand to coax the lashes back to a more natural shape. In some cases, gently brushing the lashes with a spoolie dipped in warm water can help relax the curl. If the curl remains too tight, a professional can use a mild neutralizer to loosen the curl safely.
Dryness or brittleness can happen after a lash lift, particularly if your lashes are naturally on the drier side. The lifting solution can strip some moisture from the lashes, making them feel dry or fragile. To restore moisture, apply a lash serum or natural oil (such as castor or jojoba oil) to your lashes each night. This can help rehydrate and strengthen them, reducing the risk of breakage. Be consistent with your routine, as regular care will keep your lashes healthier over time and help them recover from dryness.
Some people may experience redness or sensitivity after a lash lift, which could be due to skin sensitivity, allergies, or improper application. If you notice redness or irritation, use a cool compress to soothe the area, and avoid touching your lashes. Opt for hypoallergenic aftercare products to minimize irritation, and consider using an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory or antihistamine if the discomfort persists. If the redness or sensitivity continues beyond a few days, consult a professional or dermatologist to rule out an allergic reaction.
Certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid lash lift and tint procedures to prevent adverse reactions or complications.
Whether you’ve already had side effects, or if you’re at a high risk of getting them, there are alternatives to a lash lift that are worth considering. These include:
As a rule of thumb, you should seek out a practitioner who is licensed and experienced in doing lash lifts. An aesthetician is a good place to start. You can also seek a dermatologist who performs cosmetic procedures like lash lifts. As well, while the FDA doesn’t regulate lash lifts, laws can vary by state. California, for example, requires aestheticians, dermatologists, and barbers to have a license to perform lash lifts.
It’s a good idea to do a meet-and-greet before booking a lash lift appointment. Ask the practitioner if they have a portfolio of before-and-after photos on hand to give you an idea of the quality of their work. A reputable practitioner will also ask about your history of eye and skin diseases or sensitivities to determine if a lash lift is right for you.
Whether or not you have a history of sensitivities, it’s a good idea to have the practitioner perform a skin test with a small amount of the lash-lifting product. This is usually applied to a less conspicuous area of the body, such as the inside of your elbow. If no reaction develops after two days, then the product may be safe to use on your lashes. But keep in mind that your eye area is often much more sensitive than the rest of your body. Finally, if something doesn’t seem right at a prospective practitioner’s office, trust your gut and feel free to leave.
Lash lifts are meant to be low-maintenance, but there are ways to ensure your results last as long as possible. Avoid getting your lashes wet for the first 24-48 hours, as moisture can weaken the lift effect. Refrain from using oily makeup or makeup removers around the eyes, as oils can break down the lift. For added longevity, apply a lash serum to keep your lashes hydrated and strong. With these tips, you can enjoy the effects of your lash lift for a full 6-8 weeks!
So, you have just had your lash lift done. However, to keep them curled and beautifully lifted as long as possible, it is important to follow a few simple aftercare tips.
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