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Lash Lift vs Lash Extensions: A Calm Guide to Choosing What’s Right for You

  • Writer: Joanne Dyer
    Joanne Dyer
  • Dec 28, 2025
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jan 2


If you’re considering lashes but you’re not sure what to book, you’re not alone. The best choice isn’t about what’s trending — it’s about what suits your natural lashes, your lifestyle, and how you want to look day-to-day.


At Perfectly Polished Cotswolds, we take a consultation-led approach so you leave with lashes that feel comfortable, look refined, and fit your routine.


Start with the result you want


Ask yourself:

  • Do I want a natural “awake” look, or something more noticeable?

  • Do I want to wear less mascara, or skip it entirely?

  • How much maintenance am I realistically happy with?


Your answers usually point clearly to either a lash lift or extensions.


Option 1: Lash Lift (and tint)


A lash lift enhances what you already have by lifting your natural lashes from the base. Add a tint and you’ll get more definition too.


A lash lift is ideal if you:

  • Want a natural, polished result

  • Prefer low maintenance appointments

  • Have lashes that are straight or point downwards

  • Want to look more “open-eyed” without extensions


What it looks like

  • Lifted, curled lashes with a clean, refined finish

  • Great for clients who want subtle definition that still looks like “you”


Maintenance & timing

  • Typically a longer-lasting option than you might expect

  • Best for clients who don’t want frequent infills


Option 2: Lash Extensions (full set + infills)


Extensions are individual lashes applied to your natural lashes to add length, definition, and (depending on the set) more fullness.


Lash extensions are ideal if you:

  • Want a more noticeable lash look

  • Love the idea of waking up “ready”

  • Don’t want to rely on mascara

  • Are happy to maintain your lashes with regular infills


What it looks like

  • More definition than a lift

  • Customisable depending on the look you want (from refined to more glam)


Maintenance & timing

Extensions require infills to keep them looking their best. If you leave them too long, you’re often better booking a fresh set.


How to choose: lift or extensions?


Here’s the simplest way to decide:

  • Choose a lash lift if you want low maintenance and a natural, lifted look.

  • Choose extensions if you want maximum definition and you’re happy with regular upkeep.


If you’re torn, we can also guide you based on your natural lash strength, growth cycle, and what will be comfortable long-term.


A note on lash health (and why we keep things realistic)


We’re big on long-term results. That means:

  • Choosing a service that suits your natural lashes

  • Keeping maintenance realistic (so you don’t end up picking, rubbing, or over-wearing a set)

  • Giving clear aftercare guidance so your lashes stay in great condition


If you’ve had lashes elsewhere that felt heavy, irritated, or caused breakage, it’s often a sign the set wasn’t the right match.


Aftercare basics (for better retention)


A few simple habits make a big difference:

  • Avoid rubbing your eyes

  • Be mindful with oil-based products around the eye area

  • Follow the aftercare guidance you’re given (it’s designed to protect both retention and lash health)


Booking your lash appointment


If you’re new to lashes, or you’re switching from one service to another, book with the intention of a quick consultation at the start — we’ll tailor the treatment to you.



If you tell me what you’re currently wearing day-to-day (mascara, strip lashes, nothing) and how often you’d like to maintain them, I’ll recommend the best option and tweak this post to match your most common client questions.

 
 
 

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