Visiting a Lash and Brow Bar is the fastest way to get beautifully tailored and perfectly coordinated lashes. It can also be an overwhelming experience when choosing which type of lash treatment(s) you want, how long it will last, how much it costs, and more importantly, how you actually do it.
Whether you are just getting started with eyelash extensions or have been doing them for a while, there are things that you need to know and tips that you should follow to get the best results. And one of those questions is do you tint or lift lashes first? This is not something that you should worry about, as we will go over what you should do when applying them.
Lash tinting is best performed after a lash lift has been applied not before. This is because the tint can penetrate the hair and make it appear darker, which can make it look as if your lashes are lifted.
Is Lash Lift Same as Lash Tint?
Let’s get to know what we mean by lash lift and tint before we dive fully into everything you need to know about it.
Lash Lift
Lash lifts are a relatively new technique where individual eyelashes are bonded with a special type of glue and lifted from the root. It gives the illusion of having longer, thicker lashes without having to wear false lashes. Although all lashes have a natural shape, this process alters that shape via the use of a curling rod and lifting solution. However, you should always seek out the services of a qualified professional for this process.
Lash Tint
Lash tinting is a process that coats each lash with a pigmented stain to give the appearance of fuller and darker lashes. The procedure takes about 15 minutes, but it can last up to three weeks.
The tint is applied to the base of your natural lashes, where it adheres to the lash line and fills them in with color. It’s made from vegetable dye, so it’s safe for use on your eyes, and it won’t cause any irritation or damage to your natural lashes.
ALSO READ: Are Lash Lifts Bad for Your Eyelashes?
Why the Eyelashes Are Lifted Before the Tint
Lash lifts are a long-lasting, semi-permanent cosmetic treatment that attaches individual synthetic lashes to each natural lash in your existing set. Knowing how to apply is an important factor in this process. Below are why the eyelashes are lifted before the tint:
1. Interaction between chemicals
It is important to understand that the chemicals used in both the eyelash lift and tinting process are not compatible. The lifting solution works by breaking down the natural adhesives that hold the lashes in place, so it is important to use a non-adhesive product like tinting.
The tint will not stick to lashes that have been lifted, so there is no risk of lifting them again during application. So, once the lash lift is complete and natural lashes are free of chemicals, it’s safe to tint them.
2. Porous lashes
The reason why the eyelashes are lifted before the tint is to allow the pigments to penetrate into the hair shaft, which is more difficult with short, thick, and porous lashes. If you have longer lashes and they are not very dense, then it is not necessary to lift them before tinting.
Some people have naturally porous lashes, which means that the pigment does not penetrate as easily. In this case, we recommend using a semi-permanent dye or a semi-permanent mascara. The results are similar to those obtained with permanent dyeing but they last longer and are less damaging to your lashes.
ALSO READ: How to Fix Frizzy Lashes After Lash Lift
The Process of Lash Lift and Tint
Lash lifts are a popular treatment to give your lashes a fuller appearance. It is a non-permanent method that can last up to 4 weeks, while also boosting hair growth. Let’s go ahead with how to do your lash lift and tinting:
1. A patch test is first administered
A patch test will be conducted prior to the procedure to make sure you are not allergic to the tinting solution or products used during the procedure. This is done by applying a small amount of solution to the inside of your arm and waiting 24 hours before beginning treatment to see if there is any reaction. If there is no reaction within 24 hours, you can proceed with treatment.
It’s best to come and go for a consultation before booking your appointment so you can make sure you have no allergies and that we are using the right product for your lashes.
2. Prepping of the lashes
This is the most important part of the process. It removes dirt, oils, and any makeup on your lashes. The cleanser is applied to dry lashes and massaged into them with a cotton pad. Then, you apply a second cleanser that has been mixed with a colorless oil (like castor) to hydrate the lashes and remove any residue from the first cleanser.
Finally, you wipe away any excess oil with another cotton pad. Do this twice to ensure that there is no oil left on your lashes. You can also use a protein remover solution. Then the lower lid lashes are covered to prevent any perming of these.
3. The Curling Rod or Shield
There is various types of shield. The larger size of the three shields is more suitable for long natural lashes that need just a slight lift. The medium size is the best option for most clients. It gives an intense lift without curling lashes, making them suitable for people with average to long eyelashes.
The small size is suited for shorter lashes and those who want to create a more permed look. The eyelashes are then gently attached to the shield, pointing upwards, and held in place with a bonding gel. The straighter the lashes, the more likely they will stay in place after being glued.
4. The Lifting Balm
The lifting balm is applied to the lashes and left on for 5-6 minutes. The lifting balm gently lifts the lashes, making them appear longer. It’ll then be rebuilt in the second stage and left on for 10-14 minutes.
ALSO READ: How To Fix Over Processed Lash Lift At Home
5. The Fixing lotion
The Fixing lotion is a clear liquid that is applied to the lashes after they have been lifted. The lotion helps to set the curl and keep it in place. It also helps to prevent any smudging or smearing of the tint. The lotion is mainly applied to repair those broken bonds to fuse using the shield curl as a guideline. Hence leaving you with the curl you are after, you need to wait further 10 minutes.
6. Tinting
Lash tinting is a technique used to darken your natural lashes. It can also be used to add color contrast between your natural hair and extensions or to create the illusion of thicker lashes. The tint is applied directly to your eyelashes using fingers or an applicator brush for even application.
This step completes the process of adding color to the lashes. There are various shades of tint to choose from ranging from blue-black, black, dark brown, brown, and so on.
7. The nourishing solution
This solution will help your lashes to renew themselves and remove any residues of dye or lotions. This is an essential step in the process of lash lift and tint. It hydrates, nourishes, and conditions the lashes so that they can better handle the process of lifting and tinting.
The solution also helps to remove any residue that may exist on the fibers after applying lotion or mascara, which could potentially cause them to lift differently than they otherwise would.
8. The fixing lotion
Once the lashes have been lifted and tinted, a special fixing lotion is applied to seal in the color. The lotion helps to lock in the tint for up to 6 weeks, ensuring that it does not rub off onto your pillow at night. It also helps to give your lashes a glossy finish. This lotion can be used to mend damaged hair by reestablishing the bonds that were broken. After waiting 10 minutes, your curls should be set.
How Long Does a Lash Lift and Tint Last?
Most lash lifts and tints last around 2 to 3 months. It all depends on how they are applied and how you take care of them. It is critical to have your initial treatment on a day when you don’t plan to leave home or carry out activities that may disturb the eyelash extensions.
You should not use water or makeup on your lashes for at least 24 hours after having a Lash Lift so that the lash lift has time to set in place. After allowing the treatment’s results to set in, you can enjoy your beautiful lashes for a long time. Be sure not to expose them to heat or steam too soon after the application the longer it has been since getting the treatment done, and more durable its effects will be.
Conclusion
Lash lifts and tinting are two of the most popular eyelash enhancement treatments around. Both are long-lasting and will give your lashes a dramatic effect. However, they are different treatments, with different purposes and benefits. If you’re looking to radically change the appearance of your eyes, make sure you always tint your lashes after a lash lift, not before.
