What Is a Lash Lift and Tint? Which One Do You Need?
CEO/Founder Of Bela Beauty College
A lash lift curls natural lashes upward for a lifted look, while a tint darkens them for more definition. If you’re training to offer lash services, both are essential techniques to master for giving clients low-maintenance, eye-enhancing results.
Lash Enhancements Every Lash Tech Should Master
A lash lift and tint are two fundamental services in the beauty industry, especially for lash technicians looking to offer natural lash enhancements. A lash lift gives lashes a semi-permanent upward curl, and a tint darkens the lashes for mascara-like definition without daily application. Understanding the difference—and when to recommend one or both—is crucial in delivering personalised results for clients.
At Bela Beauty College, we train aspiring beauty professionals in both techniques through our comprehensive lash lift and tint course, so they can confidently deliver safe, high-quality services that meet client needs.
What Is a Lash Lift? A Natural Curl Without Extensions
A lash lift is a treatment that enhances the shape of natural lashes by curling them upward at the root using a special solution and silicone rod.
- No extensions involved—this works with a client’s natural lashes
- The process takes about 45 minutes
- Results last up to 6–8 weeks
- A keratin-based formula is often used to strengthen the lashes
Ideal Clients:
- Those with straight, downward-growing, or flat lashes
- Clients who want to skip eyelash curlers and extensions
- Individuals who want a natural look without daily effort
The technique is safe, customisable, and provides a lifted, eye-opening effect.
What Is a Lash Tint? Bolder Lashes Without Mascara
A lash tint is a semi-permanent dye applied to lashes to deepen their color.
- Great for clients with blond, red, or light brown lashes
- Gives the illusion of fuller lashes
- Painless, quick, and non-invasive
- Results typically last 3–4 weeks
Best For:
- Clients who want a darker lash look without using mascara
- Active individuals who sweat or swim regularly
- Clients seeking a natural but defined lash appearance
At Bela Beauty College, students learn how to safely apply tint without irritating the delicate eye area.
Lash Lift vs Lash Tint: What’s the Difference?
Here’s how lash lifts and tints compare, so you can recommend the right service:
Each treatment offers its own benefit, but combining both leads to more dramatic, yet still natural-looking results.
Why Lash Lift and Tint Make the Perfect Combo
Most professionals recommend offering both a lift and tint in one session for best results.
- Lifts lashes upward + darkens them = bolder yet natural effect
- Eliminates the need for daily mascara and curlers
- Ideal for clients with pale, short, or straight lashes
- Results are visible immediately and last 6–8 weeks
This combo is perfect for busy clients or those seeking a minimalist routine.
When to Offer Lash Lift, Tint, or Both
Your recommendation as a lash tech should depend on your client’s natural lashes and lifestyle.
Recommend a Lash Lift If:
- Lashes are straight or point downward
- The client prefers a mascara-free routine
- They want a “wake up and go” look
Recommend a Lash Tint If:
- Lashes are naturally light in color
- The client wants more contrast without makeup
- They want subtle definition
Recommend Both If:
- Lashes are straight and light-colored
- The client is preparing for a vacation or photoshoot
- They want the maximum result with minimal effort
Understanding these differences allows you to provide personalised consultations—something we teach extensively at Bela Beauty College.
What Happens During a Lash Lift and Tint Treatment?
Lash lifts and tints are gentle procedures with minimal discomfort. Here’s how both are performed:
Lash Lift Process:
- Clean lashes thoroughly
- Apply silicone shield to eyelids
- Attach lashes to the shield with adhesive
- Apply perming solution to lift lashes
- Apply setting solution
- Condition and remove
Lash Tint Process:
- Protect the under-eye area
- Apply semi-permanent dye to the lashes
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes
- Clean and reveal darker lashes
Total duration: 45–60 minutes for both
Comfort level: Relaxing for most clients
Aftercare Tips to Share With Clients
Teach your clients proper aftercare to ensure lasting results.
First 24–48 Hours:
- Avoid water, steam, sweat, or eye makeup
- Don’t rub or sleep face-down
- Skip saunas and hot showers
Ongoing Care:
- Use lash serums or conditioners
- Avoid oil-based cleansers and mascaras
- Don’t pick at or tug on lashes
Good aftercare = satisfied clients who return again and again.
Safety, Risks, and Patch Tests
While lash lifts and tints are generally safe, proper precautions are essential.
Possible Side Effects:
- Mild redness or irritation
- Allergic reactions to dye or perm solution
- Dryness if overprocessed
Avoid Treatments If:
- The client has an active eye infection
- Lashes are brittle or damaged
- The client is allergic to ingredients used in the solutions
At Bela Beauty College, we emphasise patch testing, sanitization, and consultation in our training to reduce risks and build trust with clients.
Pros and Cons: A Technician’s Perspective
Pros:
- Enhances the client’s natural lashes
- High client satisfaction and retention
- No need for extensions or daily makeup
- Ideal upsell or add-on service
Cons:
- Not effective on very short lashes
- Tint fades faster than the lift
- Improper technique can cause lash damage
Our course ensures that students master the process and avoid common mistakes.
How Long Do the Results Last?
- Lash lift: up to 6–8 weeks, depending on lash growth
- Lash tint: around 3–4 weeks
Longevity Depends On:
- Lash growth cycle
- Skincare routine and product use
- Aftercare habits
Our course teaches students how to educate clients on extending results between sessions.
FAQs Aspiring Lash Technicians Ask
Can clients wear mascara after a lash lift and tint?
Yes, after 24–48 hours, but many skip it because the lashes already look enhanced.
How often can treatments be repeated?
Lash lifts every 6–8 weeks, tints every 3–4 weeks.
Can I offer this service at home or do I need certification?
In most states, you must be licensed or certified. Bela Beauty College provides certification courses that meet local regulations.
Is it difficult to learn lash lifts and tints?
Not with proper training. Our hands-on classes walk you through step-by-step, from theory to practice.
Lash Lift, Tint, or Both?
If you’re looking to offer results your clients can fall in love with, lash lift and tint services are essential.
- Lash lift: for upward curl and open-eye effect
- Lash tint: for deep, defined lash color
- Combined: a winning combo for natural, enhanced lashes
Ready to become a certified lash professional? Enrol in Bela Beauty College’s Lash Lift and Tint course today and give your clients the lashes they’ve always wanted—naturally.
