Lash

Lash Extensions vs. False Lashes: A Comprehensive Comparison for Your Perfect Look

If larger than life eyelashes are your goal, you’ve got more options than ever to get the look you crave. Two popular choices for achieving lengthy, voluminous lashes are false lashes and eyelash extensions.

Both options offer a dramatic effect, but each comes with its own set of pros and cons. Here, we’ll delve into the benefits—and pitfalls—of each to help you make an informed decision.

What to Know About False Lashes

False eyelashes have been a beauty staple for decades. False lashes can take the form of strip lashes, clusters, or singles. They can be made of synthetic materials or natural hair (such as mink).

False lashes are meant for temporary application, typically for a single day or event. Here are the pros and cons of false lashes:

The Pros of Falsies

Convenience

You can easily apply fake eyelashes at home with lash glue. This makes them a convenient choice for those who prefer a DIY approach. They’re easy to remove at the end of the day, which allows you to change your look frequently with minimum effort.

Falsies are also widely available. You’ll find options in any pharmacy, large chain retailer, or specialty beauty store, as well as online. Have a last-minute event where you want your lashes to shine? The perfect look is at your fingertips with false lashes.

Variety

False lashes come in various lengths, styles, and materials, offering endless options for customization. You can find various styles of lashes to suit your eye shape and any occasion.

False lashes are available in strips, clusters, or single lashes. They can be made of fake hair, real animal hair, silk, or even more fantastical materials like feathers or metallic tinsel.

The options are endless. You can create a romantic, natural look with soft, fluttery clusters placed on the outer corners of your eyelid. Or you can embrace a sultry, glamorous vibe with full, fanned-out lash strips. You can even choose colorful, fantastical lashes for a special celebration or holiday.

Affordability

Compared to eyelash extensions, false lashes are generally more affordable. You can find quality lashes at reasonable prices, making them a budget-friendly choice.

Lashes made of mink or those made by prestige brands are typically more expensive than options found at mass retailers. But even high-end false eyelashes are a fraction of the cost of lash extensions.

Reusable

You can apply and reapply false lashes multiple times, making them a great investment. To maintain your lashes’ durability, remove them gently at the end of the day and store them in the box they came in.

You can reuse synthetic false lashes up to five times. If you choose higher quality false lashes made of mink or silk, you can use them 20 times or more.

The Cons of False Lashes

Temporary wear

False lashes are intended for single-day use. That means you’ll need to repeat the lash adhesive application process each time you want to wear them.

The temporary adhesive that holds false lashes to your eyelids may come off in certain conditions. A windy day, a tearful moment, or a hot and humid environment may cause your lashes to come off prematurely. (Good application techniques and quality lash glue can help!)

Application challenges

Applying false lashes can be tricky, especially for beginners. It requires practice and patience to achieve a seamless, natural-looking application. Some people may find the process time-consuming or frustrating.

If you apply false lashes incorrectly, they can feel uncomfortable on your eyelids and cause irritation.

Risk of damaging your real lashes

When not applied or removed correctly, false lashes can cause damage to your natural lashes.

Rough removal or improper use of adhesive can result in lash breakage or loss. Additionally, the repeated application and removal process can weaken your natural lashes over time.

What to Know About Eyelash Extensions

Extensions have gained a major following in recent years for their ability to provide long-lasting, voluminous lashes. Lash stylist professionals apply these semi-permanent enhancing extensions, which require regular maintenance. Let's explore the pros and cons of eyelash extensions:

PROS

Long-lasting effect:

Unlike false lashes, eyelash extensions offer a semi-permanent solution. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for several weeks, saving you the daily hassle of applying false lashes.
Lash extensions can also have better durability than false lashes. Extensions won’t come off during showering or swimming. You can sleep with lash extensions and wake up the next morning with perfect lashes.

Natural appearance

High-quality eyelash extensions are designed to mimic the look and feel of natural lashes. They provide a seamless, natural appearance, removing the need for mascara or additional makeup.
Extensions can be personalized to achieve your desired length, curl, and thickness. Your lash artist can help you choose an extension look that complements your eye shape and personal style.

Timesaving

With eyelash extensions, you can skip the daily lash routine. Waking up with voluminous lashes can save valuable minutes during your morning beauty regimen.
Extensions save time and effort by replacing curling, applying, and removing mascara in your daily routine. In fact, using fewer products is better when you have lash extensions. All you need in your regimen is a gentle, oil-free cleanser and a conditioning lash serum.

CONS

Cost

Eyelash extensions can be significantly more expensive than false lashes. The initial application cost, as well as the required maintenance sessions every few weeks, can add up.
This option may not be ideal for those on a tight budget. The price of lash extensions can range from $60 to over $300, depending on where you live. In cheaper areas, the cost is lower, while in more expensive areas, it can be higher. Factor in the cost of fill appointments every 2-3 weeks, and the expense is significant.

Maintenance requirements

Eyelash extensions need regular upkeep with your lash artist to maintain their appearance and protect your lash health.
These sessions involve replacing any fallen extensions and ensuring the overall health of your natural lashes. Failing to maintain them properly can result in premature shedding and a less polished look.

Risk of allergic reaction

Some people may experience allergic reactions to the adhesives used in eyelash extensions. It is essential to consult with a professional lash expert and undergo a patch test before having extensions applied. While uncommon, eyelid allergies can be extremely uncomfortable in the delicate eye area.

Potential damage

Eyelash extensions, like false lashes, can harm your natural lashes if not applied or removed properly. Lash extensions that are too heavy can put stress on your natural lashes and lead to lash loss.
Wearing lash extensions for a long time, even with upkeep, can compromise the health of your natural lashes. Many professionals advise taking a break between extension services every few weeks to allow your natural lashes to recover.
Using a lash serum with peptides and biotin can keep your natural lashes healthy when wearing extensions.

Which option is best for you?

Choosing between false lashes and eyelash extensions ultimately comes down to personal preference and lifestyle. False lash application offers convenience, variety, and affordability. But they require daily application and can cause damage. Eyelash extensions last longer and look natural, but they cost more and need professional upkeep.

False Lashes Lash Extensions Cost $5-$50 $150 or more, plus refill visits How Long They Last One day Up to 6 weeks Application DIY Applied by a professional Time to Apply 5 to 15 minutes 90 minutes to 2 hours Appearance Natural to dramatic Look like real lashes Comfort Varies Feel like real lashes Maintenance None Appointments every 2-3 weeks Risks Allergic reaction, lash loss Allergic reaction, damage to natural lashes, lash loss

Why Lash Serum Is a Must

Whether you opt for extensions or false lashes, caring for your natural eyelashes can help prevent damage and improve your long-term results.

Our RevitaLash® Advanced Eyelash Conditioner is safe for use with lash extensions and false lashes. It conditions, strengthens, and enhances your natural lashes and is made without oil.

This physician-developed formula contains our proprietary BioPeptin Complex® with peptides, biotin, lipids, and green tea extract rich in panthenol. These ingredients work together to strengthen and soften eyelashes. They also help protect eyelashes from breakage and brittleness.

Using lash serum daily can help prevent damage from extensions or false lashes, no matter which one you prefer.

Conclusion: False Lashes or Lash Extensions?

The Choice is Yours When choosing between lash extensions and false lashes, it's important to consider what works best for you. False lashes are easy to use and come in various styles, but they're temporary and can sometimes damage your real lashes.

On the other hand, lash extensions last longer and look more natural, but they cost more and need regular maintenance.

No matter which you choose, using a lash serum like RevitaLash® Advanced can keep your natural lashes healthy and strong. It’s all about finding the balance between achieving the look you want and taking care of your lashes in the process.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can you use eyelash serum with lash extensions?

Yes. Lash artists recommend using an eyelash serum daily to keep your natural lashes healthy while wearing extensions. Make sure your lash serum is oil-free. Oils can break down the adhesives used in lash extensions. Wait 48 hours after your extension service to apply any product to your lashes, including a serum.

How long do lash extensions last?

Lash extensions can last up to six weeks. Experts recommend visiting your lash artist for a fill and maintenance every two to three weeks. Using a lash serum like RevitaLash® Advanced can improve the performance of lash extensions and strengthen your natural lashes.

Do false lashes damage your real lashes?

Improperly applying or removing false lashes can cause the glue to stick to your real lashes. This can lead to breakage or loss of lashes. To ensure your natural lashes are healthy and strong, use a conditioning lash serum daily.