Lash lifts are everywhere, from the ultra-curled korean lash lift look to the natural, length-enhancing LVL lash lift. They’ve become a favourite treatment for anyone wanting effortlessly lifted lashes without daily curling. But as lash lifts have grown in popularity, so has the question - Can lash lifts damage your eyelashes? And should you use a lash serum afterwards?

The short answer is, your lashes can stay healthy after a lash lift with the right routine, and using a lash serum is one of the best ways to protect and nourish them.

What Is a Lash Lift?

A lash lift is a semi-permanent treatment that reshapes your natural lashes using gentle lifting and setting solutions. Your technician uses a silicone rod or shield to curl your lashes upwards, applies a lifting solution to soften their bonds, and then resets them into place with a fixing solution. The result is a long-lasting curl that enhances your natural lashes for around 4–6 weeks.

Some people also combine their lift with a lash lift and tint, which deepens the colour for a darker, mascara-like finish.

How Long Does a Lash Lift Last? 

Most lash lifts last between four and six weeks, although this depends on your technician’s skill, your natural lash cycle, and how well you handle your lash lift aftercare. Around the three-week mark, many people find themselves reaching for mascara again,  which leads to the next common question…

Can You Wear Mascara With a Lash Lift?

Yes, you can. Just avoid waterproof mascaras, especially in the first 24 hours, as they require more rubbing and stronger removers, which can weaken the lift sooner. Stick to gentler, non-waterproof formulas to preserve your curl for longer. We'd recommend our Tubing Mascara for just after your lash lift as it removes gently with warm water, avoiding any unnecessary damage to your lashes which are already delicate at this point. You can then continue to use our Tubing Mascara or switch to our Volume Boost for a waterproof, bold alternative or our Lengthening Mascara for ultimate definition.

How Much Is a Lash Lift? 

The average price of a last lift depends on many different factors, including the technician you choose to go with, the location of the salon, the type of lash lift you fancy and whether you’re also adding on an additional colour tint. 

The average price you can expect to pay for a lash lift is around £40-£70, or around £50-£100 if it includes a tint. Of course, you can always find a lash tech that provides discounts and loyalty schemes.

What Are The Risks Of a Lash Lift?

Like any beauty treatment, there are a few things to be mindful of when getting a lash lift. Most of the time, any issues are rare and easily avoided, especially when you choose a trained technician and follow the recommended lash lift aftercare. Sometimes reactions can happen due to personal sensitivity (a patch test is always a good idea), or results may vary if aftercare steps are missed, but overall lash lifts are considered a low-maintenance and safe salon treatment.

In many cases, the most common slip-up is simply getting your lashes wet too soon, which can soften the lift before it fully sets. Below are a few things to be aware of so you know what to expect and can enjoy the best possible results.

It’s also worth noting that these risks are more likely with a DIY lash lift kit, which is why we always recommend leaving lash lifts to the professionals.

1. Over-Curled Lashes 

This can happen if the wrong size silicone rod is used, resulting in a curl that’s tighter than intended. A skilled esthetician will choose the rod size that complements your natural lashes and desired look.

2. Not Following Aftercare 

The first 24 hours are important. Rubbing your eyes, sleeping face-down, working out, or getting your lashes wet can soften the freshly set curl. With good aftercare, your lift should stay beautifully shaped.

3. Lash Shedding

Lash shedding is rare and usually linked to over-processing. Choosing an experienced technician and avoiding at-home kits greatly reduces this risk, helping your lashes stay healthy throughout the treatment cycle.

4. Eye Irritation 

Because lash lifts involve solutions applied near the eyes, slight irritation can occur, especially for those with sensitive skin. This is usually temporary and can be minimised with a patch test and proper application techniques.

5. Brittle Lashes 

It’s normal for lashes to feel a little drier after a lift, as the solutions temporarily alter the hair structure. This is one of the reasons nourishing products, like UKLASH Eyelash Serums, are so beneficial, helping restore softness and strength during the recovery period.

Can You Use Lash Serum With a Lash Lift?

Yes, and not only can you, but you absolutely should! Lash serums are one of the most effective ways to support and nourish your lashes after a lash lift.

Lifting solutions temporarily alter the structure of your lashes, which can leave them feeling a little dry or delicate afterwards. A high-quality serum like UKLASH Eyelash Serums help replenish moisture, strengthen the hair fibre, and support your lash follicles as they recover. Many salons actually recommend continuing your serum before and after the treatment because it enhances the lift, keeps lashes flexible, and helps prevent breakage.

And the benefits don’t stop there. As your lifted lashes begin to shed naturally, a serum encourages new lashes to grow back longer, fuller and stronger, meaning your next lash lift will look even better. If you eventually decide to skip the salon altogether, your serum can maintain beautifully long and healthy lashes on its own.

You can start using your lash serum again 24 hours after your lash lift, once the bonds in your lashes have fully set.

Original Lash Serum

Results In As Little As 1 Month!

Complex Peptide Lash Serum

World's First Lash Serum To Feature 6 Peptides!

Sensitive Lash Serum

Gentle Formula For Sensitive Skin

The Verdict: Do Lash Lifts Ruin Your Eyelashes?

Lash lifts don’t automatically ruin your lashes, but they can cause dryness or damage if performed incorrectly or without proper care. That’s why pairing your treatment with a lash serum is key. It supports recovery, strengthens the hair, and promotes healthier growth long term.

With over 90,000 five-star reviews, UKLASH has become one of the most trusted names in lash, brow and hair serums, helping people everywhere achieve thicker, stronger, healthier lashes naturally.