I have been doing lash lifts for years and they are hands down one of my most popular services — and one of the most misunderstood. Clients come in thinking it's complicated, high-maintenance, or not for them. They leave completely converted.
Let me tell you everything you need to know.
What is a lash lift?
A lash lift is essentially a perm for your natural lashes. We use a gentle chemical solution to reshape your lashes from the root, lifting and curling them upward so they appear longer, more open, and beautifully curled — without any extensions, without mascara, without a lash curler.
The result looks like you woke up like this. Because after a lash lift, you kind of do.
How it works
You come in, get comfortable on my table, and I place a silicone shield on your eyelid. Your natural lashes are adhered to the shield in a lifted position. A perming solution is applied that softens the protein bonds in the lash. A setting solution follows that reforms those bonds in the new lifted shape. The whole process takes about 45-60 minutes and you leave with lashes that hold their curl for 6-8 weeks.
I often add a lash tint at the same appointment — this darkens the lashes so they look fuller and more defined without mascara. Most clients who try the tint never go back to not having it.
Who is a good candidate?
Almost everyone. Seriously.
If you have straight lashes that point downward — you are the perfect candidate. A lash lift will change your life.
If you have lashes that are already somewhat curled — a lift will enhance and define what you have.
If you wear glasses — lash lifts are actually better than extensions for glasses wearers because lifted natural lashes don't brush against the lens.
If you're active, swim, or work out regularly — lash lifts are infinitely more practical than extensions. After the first 24 hours there are no restrictions whatsoever.
If your lashes are very short — we can still work with what you have, though very short lashes may have a more subtle result. Come in for a consultation and I'll give you an honest assessment.
Who should wait or reconsider:
If you've had a chemical service on your lashes very recently — color, extensions with harsh adhesive removal, or a previous lift — we want to make sure your lashes have adequate health before we proceed.
If you have any active eye infections or irritation — we wait until that resolves completely.
If you are pregnant — many clients continue lash services during pregnancy but I always recommend checking with your doctor first.
What to expect during the appointment
You will be lying down with your eyes closed for most of the service. It is genuinely relaxing — most clients fall asleep. There is no pain. You may feel a mild sensation when the solutions are applied but nothing uncomfortable.
When you open your eyes at the end you will see the result immediately. Your lashes will be lifted, curled, and if we tinted them, darkened. The first reaction I get from almost every client is some version of "oh wow."
The aftercare — this part matters
The first 24 hours are critical. This is when the bonds are still settling into their new shape.
For the first 24 hours: no water on your lashes. No steam, no sweating, no swimming, no washing your face with water splashing on your lashes. No mascara. No rubbing your eyes. Sleep on your back if you can.
After 24 hours: you are free. Wash your face normally, wear mascara if you want, swim, sweat, do whatever you do. There are no ongoing restrictions.
A few things that will help your lift last longer:
Use a lash serum. I carry several at the studio and I recommend one to every lift client. Healthy, well-conditioned lashes hold a lift significantly better and longer than dry, brittle ones.
Be gentle with oil-based makeup removers around the eye area. Heavy oils can loosen the lift over time. A gentle micellar water or oil-free remover around the lashes keeps them in better shape between appointments.
Brush your lashes daily with a clean spoolie. Takes five seconds and keeps them looking neat and lifted throughout the weeks.
How long does it last?
6-8 weeks for most clients. Some clients with very healthy lashes and good aftercare get closer to 10 weeks. Lash growth cycle varies by person — as your natural lashes grow out and shed, the lift gradually softens with them.
I recommend rebooking at 6 weeks if you want to maintain consistent results. Waiting longer than 8 weeks means more of your lashes have cycled through and the overall lifted look becomes less uniform.
Can I wear mascara?
Yes — after the first 24- 48 hours. A lash lift actually makes mascara application easier and more effective because your lashes are already lifted and separated. Most clients find they use significantly less mascara after a lift, or skip it entirely.
Avoid waterproof mascara — it requires heavier removal products that can affect the lift over time. Regular mascara removes easily and is perfectly fine.
What about lash extensions vs lash lifts?
I offer both and I love both, but they serve different clients.
Extensions add length, volume, and drama. They require fills every 2-3 weeks, careful maintenance, and avoiding oil-based products. They are higher commitment and higher maintenance.
Lifts work with your natural lashes. Zero fills, zero maintenance after the first 24 hours, no restrictions, no special products required. They are perfect for clients who want to look more awake and polished with minimal effort.
My honest take: if you travel a lot, work out regularly, or just want something you never have to think about — a lash lift is your answer. If you want maximum drama and don't mind the upkeep — extensions are incredible.
A lot of my clients do lifts for most of the year and extensions for special occasions or vacations. That combination works beautifully.
Ready to book?
Text me at (818) 669-0333 to schedule your lash lift at Jasmine Skin Care + Lash Studio in Valley Village. OR BOOK ONLINE I'll answer any questions you have before your appointment and make sure you know exactly what to expect.
First time? I always do a quick consultation before we start so I can assess your natural lashes and make sure we get the best possible result for you specifically.
Jasmine Brinton
Esthetician | Skin Care Expert | Author & Researcher
Jasmine Skin Care + Lash Studio | Valley Village, CA
jazskin.com | (818) 669-0333
© 2026
