Eyelash lifting is a popular cosmetic treatment that gives the eyelashes a long, curved look without the need for artificial eyelash extensions. But how exactly does this method work? Here we take a look at the scientific basis of eyelash lifting and explain which processes and products play a role.
1. The basic process of eyelash lifting
Eyelash lifting is based on a chemical process that temporarily changes the structure of the eyelashes to give them a curved shape. Here are the main steps of this process:
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Preparation: The eyelashes are thoroughly cleaned to remove all traces of makeup and oils. This ensures that the lifting products can adhere evenly and work effectively.
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Applying the silicone pads: Silicone pads in different sizes are glued to the upper eyelid. These pads serve as a support structure to keep the eyelashes in the desired shape.
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Applying the lifting lotion: A special lifting lotion is applied to the eyelashes. This lotion contains chemicals that break the disulfide bonds in the eyelash hairs. Disulfide bonds are the chemical bonds that hold the eyelashes in their natural shape.
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Shaping the eyelashes: While the lifting lotion is taking effect, the eyelashes are gently bent into the desired shape on the silicone pads. The lotion softens the eyelash structure, allowing the eyelashes to temporarily change their shape.
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Fixation: After the exposure time, a fixing solution is applied that stabilizes the changed structure of the eyelashes. This solution reactivates the disulfide bridges in the eyelashes, which solidify in the new, curved shape.
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Conclusion: After the fixing solution has taken effect, the silicone pads are removed and the eyelashes are cleaned again. The result is a long-lasting, curved look.
2. Chemical processes in detail
The heart of the eyelash lift are the chemical reactions that change the structure of the eyelashes:
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Reduction of disulfide bridges: The lifting lotion contains reducing agents such as thioglycolic acid or ammonium thioglycolate, which break the disulfide bridges in the eyelash hairs. These bridges are responsible for the natural structure and shape of the eyelashes.
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New structuring: By breaking the disulfide bonds, the eyelashes can be reshaped. The lifting lotion has a soft consistency that allows the eyelashes to be moved into a new position.
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Fixing the new shape: The fixing solution contains oxidizing agents that restore the disulfide bridges, but in the new, curved shape of the eyelashes. This step stabilizes the new structure and holds the eyelashes in the desired position.
3. Safety and tolerability
The ingredients of lifting lotions and fixing solutions are designed to transform the eyelashes without causing permanent damage. However, it is important to ensure that the products are of high quality and that the application follows the instructions carefully to avoid possible side effects such as irritation or allergies.
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Allergy testing: Before full application, a patch test should be done to ensure that no allergic reactions to the products occur.
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Gentle products: For sensitive eyes and skin, there are special, gentler products that are less likely to cause irritation.
4. Post-lift care
After eyelash lifting, careful care is important to maintain the results and ensure the health of the eyelashes:
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Avoid water and make-up: During the first 24 hours after the treatment, contact with water and make-up should be avoided in order not to compromise the effect of the fixation.
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Care with eyelash serums: A regular eyelash serum can help keep the eyelashes healthy and maintain their curl.
The eyelash lift is based on a fascinating chemical process that temporarily changes the structure of the eyelashes to give them a curved shape. By using special lifting and fixing solutions, the disulfide bridges in the eyelashes are broken and restructured. With the right care and by following the application instructions, you can benefit from the results of an eyelash lift for a long time.