Can You Wear Mascara With a Lash Lift? (2025)

A lash lift is a semi-permanent lash curling treatment that reshapes your natural lashes using a chemical solution. Think of it as a perm for your lashes—it lifts and curls them upward to make your eyes appear more open and lashes longer without needing extensions.

How it works:

• Your lashes are gently lifted using silicone pads placed on the eyelid.
• A lifting solution breaks down the bonds in your hair structure.
• A setting solution reforms the bonds to lock the new curl in place.
• A nourishing serum (often keratin) is applied to condition the lashes.

This treatment is great for:

• People with straight or downward-growing lashes
• Those who want a low-maintenance lash routine
• Anyone seeking a natural but enhanced look

Terms to know:

• Lash perm – older term for lash lifts
• Keratin lash lift – includes a protein serum that nourishes lashes

Natural lash enhancement – a non-invasive way to boost lashes without extensions

It’s important to allow the lifted lashes to fully set before introducing any makeup.

General rule: Wait at least 24 to 48 hours.

Applying mascara too early can:

• Weaken the lifted curl
• Cause premature lash fallout
• Shorten the results of your lash lift

Tips:

• Use a gentle, oil-free remover to avoid lifting the curl.
• Never apply mascara directly after your appointment—even if it feels dry.

Not all mascaras are lash-lift friendly. Choosing the right formula matters just as much as when you apply it.

Best Mascaras After a Lash Lift:

• Water-based mascara
  • Lightweight, easy to remove
  • Won’t interfere with lash structure
• Tubing mascara
  • Wraps lashes in water-soluble tubes
  • Comes off with warm water—no oil needed
• Oil-free mascara
  • Safe for lash lifts
  • Keeps the curl intact

What to Avoid:

• Waterproof mascara
  • Difficult to remove
  • Requires oil-based removers which can weaken the lift
  • Leads to excessive rubbing or tugging

Using the wrong type—or applying it too early—can damage your lash lift.

Risks:

• Weakened curl due to oil breakdown
• Lash breakage or fallout from excessive rubbing
• Lift reversal, especially if lashes are saturated with waterproof mascara
• Build-up and clumps, which strain the natural lashes

Think of your lash lift as a sculpted style—you wouldn’t wet-set curls right after curling iron use, and lashes are no different.

Expert Do’s and Don’ts:

Do:

• Wait 24–48 hours before any product
• Use oil-free, lash-safe products
• Comb through lashes gently with a spoolie

Don’t:

• Sleep face-down right after treatment
• Use lash curlers (unnecessary and damaging)
• Apply waterproof or heavy formulas

Once you’re past the first 48 hours, maintaining your lash lift while using mascara involves a consistent aftercare routine.

Lash-Friendly Aftercare Tips:

• Use oil-free cleanser to avoid breaking the chemical bonds
• Avoid waterproof mascara—opt for tubing or water-based
• Apply a lash serum to strengthen and nourish natural lashes
• Use a clean spoolie daily to maintain lash shape
• Don’t rub or tug during makeup removal—be gentle

Weekly Routine Sample:

• Morning: Comb lashes, apply water-based mascara

Evening: Gently remove with oil-free micellar water, apply lash serum

After a professional lash lift, many clients at Bela Beauty College find they don’t even need mascara. The curl and lift alone often provide enough enhancement—especially when paired with a tint.

But for those who want more drama or definition, mascara can still be used—just do it wisely. The key is:

• Timing: Wait the full 48 hours.
• Product choice: Stick to water-based or tubing mascara.
• Gentle removal: Avoid oils and rough handling.

Enhance your lashes without compromising the lift. Treat them like the luxury treatment they are.