Properly done lash lifts zap the need for eyelash curlers. That’s what makes this procedure wildly popular: you have it done once and then wake up with gorgeously curled lashes (even better than what you get from your curler) for weeks! Although you shouldn’t need to use a lash curler after a lash lift, you might have your reasons for wondering: can I curl my lashes after a lash lift?
Avoid using mechanical and heated eyelash curlers on your lashes after having a lash lift, especially on the first day after your procedure. Curling your lashes with these tools after a lash lift can spoil the procedure’s results and may damage your lashes or make them fall out.
So many people have lash lifts because they want to drop lash-curling from their daily routine. Why spend time and effort using a curler when you can open your eyes daily to lashes that are already curled?
I’ll help you figure out why your lashes need more oomph after your lash lift and let you know what will happen if you use your eyelash curler to boost your curl after your procedure.
Can You Use a Curler After a Lash Lift?
It’s a bad idea to use an eyelash curler after a lash lift for two reasons:
- Reason #1: Using a curler after a lash lift can spoil your results
- Reason #2: Using a curler after a lash lift can damage your lashes
Let’s dig deeper into why eyelash curlers and lash lifts don’t mix.
Reason #1: Using a Curler After a Lash Lift Can Spoil Your Results
Using a curler on your lashes after a lash lift is a bit like having your nails painted at the nail bar and then adding a coat of your polish when you get home. You won’t get the pro job back after applying your layer, and you won’t get the lash lift’s smooth curve and lifted-from-the-root effect back after going at your lashes with a curler.
You’re especially likely to wreck your results if you curl your lashes within 24 hours of your lash lift. You must give the procedure a full day to set it properly. Messing with your lashes before this time’s up will stop the lash lift from working as it should.
Reason #2: Using a Curler After a Lash Lift Can Damage Your Lashes
Although lash lifts are lash-safe when done by a certified and licensed lash pro, lashes are processed with chemicals during the procedure and need time to recover afterward.
You must show your lashes some love after their lift by taking good care of them (um, on top of gazing at them adoringly in the mirror!).
Aftercare essentials for happy, healthy lashes include washing them gently with a mild, oil-free cleanser, applying nourishing oil daily, and not rubbing or squashing them when you sleep.
Clamping your curler on your lashes is the opposite of tender lash care.
Here’s a look at why using a curler after a lash lift can damage your lashes:
- Using your curler too zealously can break lashes or make them fall out (this risk applies whether or not you’ve had a lash lift, but your lashes are more vulnerable to damage after a lash lift).
- Heated curlers expose lashes to heat damage.
- Mechanical curlers can tug at lashes (and potentially yank them out).
- Using a dirty curler can trigger nasty eye conditions (which can make lashes fall out).
- Worn-out curlers up your risk of damaged lashes.
- Using a bad curling technique exposes your lashes to more harm.
Why You Would Want to Use a Curler After a Lash Lift
I don’t know anyone who would add a pointless step to their get-ready routine (the morning rush is hectic enough already, right?). So, I’m assuming you want to curl your lashes because you feel your lash lift didn’t deliver enough curls for your liking.
Expertly done lash lifts should create better results than even premium lash curlers. Only lash lifts can lift the lashes from their root to make them look longer and give them a flawless curl (no crimping here!).
Here are the differences between lash lifts and eyelash curlers:
| Lash Lifts | Eyelash Curlers |
|---|---|
| Results last up to 2 months. | Results last a day. |
| You have the procedure once every 6 to 8 weeks or so. | You need to curl your lashes daily. |
| You aren’t responsible for successful results (relax as a lash pro takes care of your lashes). | The pressure of getting results right is on you (you must learn how to use your curler with skill). |
| Your lash tech has everything needed for successful results. | You must find the right curler to deliver results (cheap curlers don’t work well without force). |
| Lashes are lifted from the root to make them look longer. | Lashes aren’t lifted from the root. |
| Lashes are curled to perfection. | It’s easy to crimp instead of curl lashes. |
As this table shows, the lash lift is a clear winner in the Lash Lift Vs Eyelash Curler Clash!
So if you want to use your curler after a lash lift, I’d say it’s likely because:
- Your lash lift didn’t work. Anything from poor technique, timing, and tools to working on dirty lashes can stop a lash lift from working. Superstar lash techs with tons of experience doing lash lifts won’t make any of these mistakes, so only go to a pro!
- Your lash lift didn’t create enough curls. Lash lifts can create loose, natural-looking curls or curls that are tighter and more striking. If your curl is underwhelming, ask your tech to use a smaller shield for a more dramatic curl next time.
- Your lash lift fell flat too soon. Your lashes can lose their lift and curl if you ignore aftercare instructions – especially during the 24 hours after your lift, including not using an eyelash curler!
If one of these reasons has left your lashes in need of a boost, you can have another lash lift. But wait at least a month for your lashes to regain full strength before you process them again.
Suppose you’re keen to get lash lifts regularly. In this case, I advise you to wait at least 8 weeks between lash lifts to keep your lashes healthy.
Remember to apply nourishing oil or lash serum daily for moisturized, glossy lashes!
When your lashes are ready for another lift, go to a trained, experienced lash tech with a portfolio full of results you love, and ask the tech for a tighter, look-at-me curl.
Final Thoughts
Eyelash curlers and lash lifts don’t go together. Combining the two is more likely to make your lashes snap than create a dreamy curl. Lashes need extra care after a lash lift, and curlers’ tugging, squeezing, and clamping can stress them out, cause breakage, and make them fall out. Using a curler after a lash lift can also undo the procedure’s results.
If you believe your curler could give you a more impressive curl than what you got from your lash lift, it’s probably because your lash lift didn’t work. You can have another procedure about a month later – and this time, choose the failsafe way to get long-lasting lifted lashes with an unbeatable curl: visit a lash pro with all the proper credentials.
– Asako
Asako Ito
Asako is the Co-Founder of Divine Lashes and a certified eyelash stylist. She has been passionate about lashing since 2012. She rapidly gained recognition for her excellent service and state-of-the-art technique. She continuously increases her knowledge both as a technician and educator by collaborating with top lash artists worldwide.
When away from the salon, Asako loves to stay active either at the gym or enjoying the outdoors. She loves to try new recipes and spend time with her little boy and baby daughter.
FAQs
Can you curl eyelashes after lash lift? ›
Always wait 24 hours to do this, straight after the procedure. Can I use an eyelash curler? No. There will be no need for an eyelash curler as this treatment gives a much better result than using a curler, But more importantly, using one may weaken and damage your lashes.
Can I curl my eyelashes before a lash lift? ›Any residue of makeup will prevent proper application of the extensions. DO NOT curl your lashes before your appointment. Extensions will not adhere to crimped lashes.
How do I keep my eyelashes curled after a lash lift? ›Apply Lash Serum or lash Conditioner
About 48-72 hours after your lash lift treatment, apply a lash serum or conditioner to your eyelashes. A lash conditioner will help keep your eyelashes strong, soft, and healthy - making the lash curl last even longer.
- Be gentle with your lashes; no rubbing.
- Do not get your lashes wet for the first 24 hrs.
- Do not use harsh products on your eyes/lashes.
- Use of Sauna/Steam is possible after 24hrs but may weaken the effect of the lift.
- No eye make up for 24 hours.
- Avoid waterproof mascara's.
Can I still use an eyelash curler after a lash lift? The whole point of a lash lift is to remove the need for a eyelash curler and it gives a better curl result. But more importantly, if you do try to use an eyelash curler you run the risk of weakening and damaging your natural lashes.
How long does it take for a lash lift to settle? ›Similar to above, during the first 24-48 hours the lashes are still settling in and getting comfortable. Too much steam can make them uncomfortable and the lash lift will drop, putting the amazing lift back to what it was.
What happens if you curl lash lift? ›Lashes need extra care after a lash lift, and curlers' tugging, squeezing, and clamping can stress them out, cause breakage, and make them fall out. Using a curler after a lash lift can also undo the procedure's results.
Why didn't my lashes curl after a lash lift? ›Lashes might look clean, but even traces of makeup, muck, oil, or skin cells can stop the solutions from lifting and curling properly.
Can you curl your eyelashes after an eyelash perm? ›Bernstein also cautioned against using a lash curler (and you hopefully shouldn't have to anyway). The curl from the lash perm should hold for about a month.
Can I brush my lashes after a lift? ›Avoid rubbing your eyes. Do not get the lashes wet or use product on them for 24 hours after treatment. Remove eye makeup gently with non-oily remover. Gently brush your lashes daily with a lash brush.
Do lashes continue to lift after lash lift? ›
How Long Do Lash Lifts Last? Lash lift results last six to eight weeks or until your eyelashes have naturally grown out and the lift has gradually fallen.
Do lash lifts fall after a few days? ›The lash lift results can last up to 6-8 weeks. In general, the lash lift procedure is considered safe, with some experiencing temporary skin irritation or allergic reaction. However, when the perming chemicals are left on the eyelashes for too long, they can cause breakage and damage them.
What happens if I get my lash lift wet before 24 hours? ›Keep your lashes out of the water for 24 hours
For the 24 hours following your lash lift appointment, you can't get your lashes wet. If so, they will immediately lose their shape and drop, diminishing the entire process and wasting your money.
You must wait 24 hours after a lift and tint to shower. We use 24 hours as a buffer time to allow the lashes to set properly and avoid any issues with the lift. After the 24 hours waiting period you can wash your face and lashes like normal.
How do you sleep with a lash lift? ›Sleep on your back! Since your lashes are still shape shifting, sleeping on your side or putting pressure on your lashes can leave the them misshaped. Use an oil-free mascara and an oil free makeup remover. After about two to three days following your lash lift treatment, you can wear mascara.
Why has my lash lift dropped? ›Some things that may make the lash lift drop. If the client wets the lashes within 24 hours after the lash lift, exposed to excess heat, rubbing their eyes or the lash lift wasn't processed enough and next time leave the solution on for a few minutes longer.
How do you get the best lash lift results? ›Ensure the eye area is clean
Before you begin the treatment, we recommend ensuring that the skin around the client's eyes and brows is as clean and as oil-free as it can be. This is to make sure that the lash rod stays put - if the skin is oily it can slide about and compromise the effectiveness of your lash lift.
Don't get lash extensions immediately after a lash lift if the results aren't desirable. Apply coconut oil or Vaseline on your lashes before going to sleep.
Does a lash lift calm down? ›A: The whole purpose of the lash lift is to make the lash curl and lift with out the use of lash curlers, sometimes you will get that extra lift and it may force the lash to slightly touch under your brow line above the lid, this will relax over a few days as well as weight itself down with light use of some mascaras.
When should I touch up my eyelash lift? ›LASH LIFT TOUCH UP
An eyelash lift does not require any touch-ups. As your natural lashes grow, they take their natural shape. You can repeat the treatment after two months. The shortest period after which it can be redone is 6 weeks.
Can you rub eyes with lash lift? ›
Avoid rubbing or touching your eyelashes and eye area. This is especially important within 24 – 48 hours after having the procedure done as rubbing or touching can cause the lashes to change their shape and curl. Avoid any water on and around your eye area for the first 24 hours.
Can you do lash lift twice? ›Sometimes, Two Sessions Are Better Than One
However, these are still chemicals. Thus, it's important to take time to process your lashes in a way that does not damage them. One way to do this is to take multiple sessions to avoid over-processing your natural lashes and damaging them.
Do not get your lashes wet or apply any cosmetics for 24 hours after Lash Lifts, as it will neutralize the chemical process and leave you with flat lashes. This includes showering, saunas, steam, sweating, and crying.
Why do I have to wait 24 hours with a lash lift to wear mascara? ›When Can I Wear Mascara After? It's best to wait at least 24 hours before wearing any mascara or any eye makeup at all. Most mascara contains oil that can break down your lash lift. After that, you want to do your best to make the lift last as long as possible.
What happens if your eyes water after a lash lift? ›You can cry a day after having a lash lift done without spoiling your results. However, avoid crying in the 24 hours after your procedure to give the results time to set properly, as wetting your lashes during this period counteracts the solution that keeps them lifted and curled.
Does micellar water ruin lash lift? ›As for can you use micellar water after a lash lift: Yes, you can use micellar water to clean your lashes after a lash lift. Since this product's formula is water-based and does not contain any chemicals, it will be safe for your lashes.
Do lash lifts weaken your eyelashes? ›If you go to a licensed and certified professional and wait at least six weeks between services, the procedure doesn't do any harm. You can, however, hurt your lashes if the technician isn't skilled.
What mascara is best after lash lift? ›Do: Choose a mineral mascara or water-based mascara. Mineral mascara is a good option as it is gentle on the lashes and easy to remove. Water-based mascaras are also a great choice and are usually very affordable.