Lash lift vs lash lamination: differences
7 April 2025 · 6 min read
What is a lash lift?
A lash lift is a treatment that curls and lifts the natural lash from the root by applying a perming lotion and a setting solution. The result is a more open, awake look with no need for mascara. It lasts between 6 and 8 weeks.
What is lash lamination?
Lamination is similar to the lift but adds an intensive nourishing and hydrating step for the lash using oils and keratin. As well as curling, it seals the structure of each hair, making it shinier, darker and fuller. It is especially suitable for fine or damaged lashes.
Main differences
| Feature | Lift | Lamination |
|---|---|---|
| Main effect | Curl and lift | Curl + nourishment + volume |
| Duration | 6–8 weeks | 6–8 weeks |
| Who it's for | Healthy lashes with volume | Fine, fragile or dry lashes |
| Combinable with tint | Yes | Yes |
Can it be combined with tint?
Yes. At Prettify we do the lift or lamination combined with a lash tint in the same session. The result is an intense, defined look without mascara: ideal for summer, sport or anyone who simply wants to simplify their make-up routine.
How long does the session last?
The full treatment lasts between 45 and 60 minutes. During the first 24 hours it's important not to wet the lashes or apply oily products so the setting solution can do its job properly.
How often does it need repeating?
As it is a treatment on the natural lash, the lash renewal cycle (between 6 and 8 weeks) sets the ideal repeat rhythm. Many clients schedule it every six weeks or at the start of each season.
How the session works, step by step
- Cleansing: the lashes are thoroughly cleansed of make-up. Any trace of grease stops the lotion from working evenly.
- Placing the silicone pad: a silicone form is stuck to the eyelid. Its size decides how much curl you get: the bigger, the more open and soft; the smaller, the more curl.
- Perming lotion: opens the structure of the hair so it takes on the new shape. It works for 8 to 12 minutes depending on lash thickness.
- Setting solution: closes that structure and seals the curl.
- Tint, if combined: applied at this point.
- Nourishment: oil or keratin to restore hydration. In lamination this step is more intense and is what makes the difference.
Throughout the process your eyes stay closed and there should be no stinging. If you feel itching, say so: it means a product has touched the mucous membrane and needs to be removed.
Aftercare for the first 48 hours
- Don't wet your lashes for 24 hours, including shower steam or sauna.
- Avoid oily products and bi-phase make-up removers for the first 48 hours.
- Don't sleep face down the first night: the curl can be deformed.
- Don't use a mechanical eyelash curler. You no longer need it and it breaks the hair.
- After two days, apply castor oil or the serum recommended to you daily.
Lift or extensions: which suits you
It's the other big question, and they are different things. The lift works on your own lash; extensions add hair.
| Lift / lamination | Extensions | |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Curls and lifts your lash | Adds synthetic hair |
| Volume | Your own, better positioned | As much as you want |
| Maintenance | None until you repeat | Infill every 2 or 3 weeks |
| Duration | 6 to 8 weeks | Indefinite with infills |
| Result | Natural | From natural to very striking |
If you have long but straight lashes, the lift will surprise you. If you have little hair, the lift falls short and what you're after is lash extensions.
When it isn't recommended
- Conjunctivitis, styes or active blepharitis. You need to wait for it to clear.
- Recent eye surgery, unless medically cleared.
- Lashes already very weakened by repeated perms. A break with a serum is advisable first.
- Pregnancy: it isn't contraindicated, but hormonal changes can make the curl take less well or last less.
If you're wearing extensions, they need to be removed first: the lift isn't done over false hair.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear make-up afterwards? Yes, after 24 hours. Although the beauty of the treatment is precisely being able to skip mascara.
Do lashes fall out? No more than usual. We naturally lose between 1 and 5 lashes a day and that doesn't change. If you notice significant shedding, it's usually a sign the lotion was left on too long.
How long exactly does a lash lift last? Between 6 and 8 weeks, which is how long it takes your lashes to renew completely. It doesn't disappear all at once: the curl is gradually lost as new hairs come through.
Lash lift and lamination at Prettify
We offer both, with or without tint, at all our salons. You'll find the details and prices at lash lift in Barcelona and on our lashes page.