The beauty industry is undergoing a noticeable shift. More and more people are stepping away from heavy makeup and high-maintenance routines, embracing a natural look that emphasizes simplicity and authenticity. As a result, lash lifts are quickly becoming one of the most requested treatments at salons, surpassing traditional eyelash extensions.
But what exactly is driving this trend?
The Shift Toward Natural Beauty
From TikTok trends to celebrity endorsements, the message is clear: natural beauty is in. Consumers are seeking ways to enhance their features without looking overly done. The “clean girl” aesthetic and “no-makeup” looks are dominating social feeds, leaving lash artists with an opportunity to evolve their offerings.
What is a Lash Lift?
Unlike extensions, lash lifts focus on enhancing what’s already there. A lash lift is a semi-permanent cosmetic treatment designed to enhance the natural eyelashes by lifting and curling them from the base. The process involves applying a chemical solution to break down and reshape the structure of the lashes, allowing them to be molded into an upward curve.The result? A low-maintenance solution that looks effortlessly beautiful.
Typically, the treatment includes:
- Preparation: Cleaning the lashes and applying a silicone shield or rod to the eyelids.
- Lifting Solution: Applying a perming solution to soften the lashes and shape them into the desired curl.
- Setting Solution: Applying a neutralizing solution to lock the new shape in place.
- Optional Tinting: Adding color for a more dramatic effect.
A lash lift typically lasts 6–8 weeks, depending on the natural growth cycle of the lashes, and requires minimal maintenance.
Why Lash Lifts are Trending
The rising popularity of lash lifts can be attributed to several factors:
- Affordability: Lash lifts cost less than extensions, making them accessible to a broader audience.
- Time-Saving: With fewer maintenance appointments, clients save both time and money.
- Health Benefits: For clients concerned about lash damage, lifts provide a gentler alternative.
Lash lifts work on most lash lengths, but the results can vary depending on the natural length and thickness of the lashes.
For shorter lashes, a lash lift provides a subtle curl and lift, making them appear longer and more noticeable, especially when paired with a lash tint. Medium-length lashes tend to achieve the most striking results, offering a noticeable lift and curl that enhances the eyes. Long lashes, on the other hand, can look especially dramatic after a lash lift, creating a wide, eye-opening effect, though larger shields or rods may be needed to prevent over-curling. For sparse or weak lashes, the results might be less impactful, and strengthening treatments may be recommended beforehand. Lash lifts are particularly effective for straight or downward-growing lashes, transforming their appearance with a flattering upward curl.
How Lash Artists Can Adapt
For lash artists, this is the perfect time to embrace the shift. Offering lash lifts not only diversifies your services but also meets client demands for more natural beauty solutions. Lash artists can adapt to the growing demand for lash lifts by leveraging their time-saving benefits. Lash lifts are quicker than eyelash extensions, typically taking around 45 minutes to an hour, which allows artists to fit more clients into their day and increase their revenue. By adjusting scheduling systems and booking more lash lift appointments, artists can maximize their availability and promote the convenience of quick, last-minute appointments for busy clients.
Marketing Lash Lifts Effectively
Clients may need a little education to understand the benefits of lash lifts. Many people don’t know what a lash lift is or how it differs from extensions. Education builds trust and curiosity.
- Educate clients about lash lifts: Write articles explaining the lash lift process, benefits, and ideal candidates. Create reels, TikToks, or carousel posts showcasing the procedure, benefits, and results. Host Instagram or Facebook Lives where you demonstrate the process and answer questions. Share testimonials or before-and-after photos to illustrate real results.
- Offer introductory promotions: Offer a percentage off for first-time lash lift clients. Bundle a lash lift with other services like lash tints, brow shaping, or facials. Provide discounts for clients who refer friends and for the referred friends themselves.
- Leverage your social media: Highlight client transformations with before-and-after posts to show the immediate impact of a lash lift. Share videos of the lash lift process to demystify it for potential clients. Engage followers with polls like “Would you try a lash lift?” or quizzes about lash care.
- Target Niche Audiences: Promote the low-maintenance benefits of lash lifts. Emphasize how lash lifts enhance natural beauty for special occasions. Market lash lifts as a perfect solution for effortless, waterproof beauty on trips.
Looking Ahead
The natural beauty trend shows no signs of slowing down. By offering lash lifts, you can future-proof your business while helping your clients feel confident in their natural beauty.
Are you noticing more clients asking for lash lifts? Share your experience with us on Instagram by tagging us @thecosmoglolight!