I am a lash extension addict. I have worn them pretty much continuously for about seven years with only two short breaks. My sister Abi is a beauty therapist and when she was training to be lash technician, I was one of her case studies. I loved the look of them straight away and was hooked. You see I’m quite lazy when it comes to make up and having extensions meant not worrying about wearing any mascara. Your lashes just look amazing all the time. A few months ago now, Abi trained in LVL and I was keen to give it try. As it happened she was super busy with clients and I never got the chance to have my extensions refilled so I ended up extension free. It was the perfect time to try LVL, but after years of extensions would I be as happy with the result?

What is LVL?

LVL stands for Length Volume Lift. By straightening your natural lashes at the root and then tinting them you achieve the appearance of longer, thicker lashes. The procedure takes around 45 minutes to an hour and you need to keep your eyes shut the whole time. Once you’re done your lashes will stay curled and lifted for up to 6-8 weeks.

The products used have been specifically formulated and tested to prevent any damage to your lashes. Before even having the treatment you will need to have a patch test to make sure you aren’t allergic to any of the various balms used. Obviously the area around your eyes is more sensitive so this is important.

Advantages of LVL

Low maintenance

I think the advantage of LVL over extensions is that once you have had the treatment you’re good for six weeks or so until you decide to have it done again. With extensions you would obviously need to go back every two or three weeks have have refills. The only thing you really need to do with LVL is apply the Lash & Brow Conditioning Serum morning and evening.

Long lasting

As I mentioned before LVL lashes last six to eight weeks so once it’s done you’re good to go.

Saves you time

You don’t even have to wear mascara with LVL if you don’t want to. Your lashes have already been tinted and look longer and thicker so it isn’t really necessary. I’m used to not wearing mascara because of the extensions anyway. If you’re anything like me and you generally can’t be bothered with putting makeup on then this is perfect.

My Thoughts

Having the procedure done is a weird feeling. You have a sticky pad under your eyes to keep your lower lashes out of the way. Then a silicone shield is stuck to your upper lid so your lashes can be pressed upwards ready for curling and tinting. Nothing about the treatment feels painful or uncomfortable but this is a strange sensation.

After the treatment you need to avoid contact with water for 24 hours and you also need to avoid steam which means no showers either. That night you should also be careful when sleeping as you don’t want your lashes to be disturbed and bent out of shape with your pillow.

I have only worn mascara once since I had them done a week ago. I feel like my natural lashes are quite straight so it takes quite a lot to get them to curl nicely with an eyelash curler. Now I don’t even need to worry about doing that. I love how my lashes look and I would definitely have it done again.

Have you had LVL before? Would you recommend it?

If you’re in the Cambridge area feel free to check out my sister’s Beauty By Abi Facebook and Instagram pages for other LVL photos. Before anyone asks, no she hasn’t paid me to write this 😉