Hay fever, I have not missed you. A day that begins with a perfect eyeliner flick, ends in tears, literally, all because of my arch nemesis: pollen. With the season of sneezing upon us, I’m dreading mascara application and it’s smudging ways. But how will my peepers look perky without? Dear Treatwell readers, there’s an answer, and it goes by the name of LVL lashes. Meaning ‘length, volume, lift’, so basically mascara without the mascara. This is my answer to beautifully boosted lashes, without the panda eyes – here’s what to expect.
By Rachel Spedding
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1 Once you’ve booked
Head for a patch test before your treatment, to make sure the dye suits your skin type. Just pop into the salon, ear at the ready (they’ll hide the patch just behind it). Leave the dye to develop for 24 hours, then just check that your skin is fine and dandy; once you know, you’re good to go.
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2 In and out, in a blink
Though a lengthy pamper session is always a winner, when I’m pressed for time, nothing beats a lunchtime treatment. An LVL booking will last around an hour, including consultation, which basically means 45 minutes of shut eye between meetings. Dreamy.
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3 Lashes, where you at?
The tint is life changing for the fair-lashed amongst us, taking hold of every hair for a more defined eye. No more layering up the mascara, the tint and lift will imitate the look for you, so you can hit snooze one more time on that morning alarm and still leave the house with fabulous flutterers.
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4 Take care
A teeny bit of maintenance will keep your your lifted lashes looking tip-top. Avoid saunas, swimming pools and sunbeds for 48 hours and try to not get the lashes wet for 24 hours. Post face-wash, I recommend brushing through with a spoolie – not just because it’s weirdly satisfying – but to help them dry in the correct shape.
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5 How often?
Depending on your lash type, LVL will last between 6-8 weeks. That’s a whole lot of time sans mascara folks, I’m rubbing my eyes with joy at the thought. Since pollen season lasts around three months (kicking off in May – you’ve been warned), one or two treatments will carry you through. It’s official, LVL is my hay fever saviour.
FAQs
What is an LVL lash treatment and what does it do?
LVL stands for Length, Volume, Lift, offering a way to boost your lashes without mascara. The treatment tints and lifts every lash, creating a defined and fluttery look for those with fair lashes or anyone wanting to skip daily mascara.
How long does an LVL lash treatment take?
An LVL lash treatment lasts around one hour, including a consultation. Most of your appointment is spent relaxing with your eyes closed, making it a perfect option if you want to fit it in during a lunch break.
What aftercare steps should you follow for LVL lashes?
After an LVL treatment, avoid saunas, swimming pools and sunbeds for 48 hours, and try not to get your lashes wet for 24 hours. Brushing your lashes with a spoolie after washing your face helps them dry in the correct shape and keeps them looking their best.
How long do LVL lashes last before you need a new treatment?
LVL lashes typically last 6 to 8 weeks, depending on your lash type. If you’re booking treatments for pollen season, one or two appointments can keep your lashes looked lifted and defined for the whole season.
Why do you need a patch test before your LVL lash appointment?
A patch test ensures the dye used for your lashes suits your skin and avoids reactions. During the patch test, dye is applied behind your ear, and you check the area after 24 hours to ensure there are no issues before proceeding with the full treatment.