At Avera Beauty we offer both lash lifts and lash extensions, and we get asked "which should I get?" probably more than any other question. There's no universal right answer — they suit different people, lifestyles, and budgets. This guide breaks down the real differences.
Lash Lift
A lash lift is a chemical treatment applied to your natural lashes that curls them upward from the root. We always include a tint with the lift at Avera.
**Duration:** 60 minutes**Lasts:** 6-8 weeks**Cost:** £45 (Lash Lift + Tint)**Maintenance:** NoneEyelash Extensions
Individual synthetic, mink, or silk lashes glued to each natural lash one by one. Styles range from classic (one per lash) to Russian volume (handmade fans for dramatic look).
**Duration:** 60 minutes initial, 20 min infills**Lasts:** 4-6 weeks**Cost:** £55 full set + £30 infills every 2-3 weeks**Maintenance:** Regular infillsSide-by-Side Comparison
When a Lash Lift Wins
You want natural-looking resultsYou don't want commitmentYou travel or have an unpredictable scheduleYou want lower lifetime costYou sleep on your face / rub your eyesWhen Extensions Win
You want a dramatic look (especially Russian volume)You have short, thin, or sparse natural lashesYou don't mind the maintenance scheduleYou're prepping for a major eventBridal or special occasionWhen NEITHER Is Right
Allergies to acrylates, formaldehyde, or eyelash glueActive eye infections or recent eye surgeryPregnancy — discuss case by caseTrichotillomaniaVery sensitive eyes — patch test firstWhat We See at Avera
~60% of clients who try both settle on lash lifts long-term~30% stay on extensions (more dramatic look, or very short natural lashes)~10% rotate — extensions for events, lift the rest of the yearHow to Decide
1. **How much maintenance am I willing to do?** "None" → lift.
2. **What's my budget over 6 months?** Lift: £45-90. Extensions: £200-400+.
3. **Do I want natural or dramatic?** Natural → lift. Dramatic → extensions.
Still not sure? Book a consultation. We'll look at your natural lashes and tell you honestly what each will give you.
Book Your Appointment
**Lash Lift + Tint:** £45 (60 min)**Full Set Lash Extensions:** £55 (60 min)**Lash Infills:** £30 (20 min)**Lash Removal:** £15 (15 min)8 West Street, Southend-on-Sea. Book online via Fresha or call 01702 316427.
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