Fuller, more dramatic lashes without daily mascara — that’s the appeal of both lash lamination and lash extensions. But the two treatments work in completely different ways, with different results, upkeep and price points. Here’s how to decide which is right for you.
What Is Lash Lamination?
Lash lamination lifts and sets your own natural lashes into a curled, uplifted shape, using a lifting solution similar to a lash perm. No extensions are added — it simply enhances what you already have, opening up the eyes and reducing the need for daily mascara or eyelash curlers. It’s a quick treatment, taking around 15 minutes.
What Are Lash Extensions?
Lash extensions involve applying individual synthetic or silk lashes to your natural lashes, one by one, to add real length, curl and fullness. The finish is fully customisable, from a subtle everyday enhancement to a dramatic, fuller look. Application takes longer — around 1 hour 30 minutes — and requires regular infill appointments to maintain fullness as your natural lashes shed.
Key Differences
- What’s added: Lamination enhances your own lashes; extensions add individual synthetic lashes
- Length and volume: Extensions can add significantly more length and volume than lamination
- Appointment time: Lamination takes around 15 minutes; extensions take around 1 hour 30 minutes
- Maintenance: Lamination needs repeating every 6–8 weeks; extensions need infills every 2–3 weeks
Which One Should You Choose?
If you want a natural, low-maintenance enhancement that works with your own lashes, lash lamination is the simpler, quicker option. If you want dramatic length and volume and don’t mind more frequent salon visits, lash extensions will give you a bigger transformation. Some clients even alternate between the two depending on the season or occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get lash lamination and extensions at the same time?
These treatments aren’t typically combined, since extensions are applied to individual natural lashes and lamination changes their shape. Speak to your technician about the best option for your goals.
Which lasts longer, lamination or extensions?
Lamination typically lasts 6 to 8 weeks per treatment, while extensions need infills every 2 to 3 weeks to stay full, though a single set continues shedding gradually with your natural lash cycle in between.
Book Your Lash Appointment
Explore our Lash Lamination or Lash Extensions service, or get in touch with our Kensington lash team to discuss which suits you.