What Is a Lash Lift and Tint? Which One Do You Need?

CEO/Founder Of Bela Beauty College

TLDR;

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

When clients ask how long does lash lift and tint last, it’s important to explain that longevity depends on a few factors: the natural lash growth cycle, skincare routine and product use, and overall 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.

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