Also known as lash perms, lash lifts help to open up the eye area without mascara or an eyelash curler.

We're always after ways to make our morning beauty routine a little bit quicker and easier—which is why we put eyelash extensions and microblading to the test in the past. So when we heard about something called a lash lift (or a lash perm), that gives the appearance of longer lashes while brightening the whole eye area, we needed to know more.

We chatted with Jane Zhang, skin and lash specialist at Lac + Beauty, a spa in Toronto that offers the service, o find out more.

First, what is a lash lift?

A lash lift is basically a perm for your eyelashes. A solution is applied that semi-permanently curls the lashes up, similar to the effect of a lash curler—but with way more staying power. It's great for people who find themselves curling their lashes every day, or for those who find that despite curling, their lashes fall pretty quickly. If you have naturally straight or flat lashes, this is a good option for you to try.

Is it dangerous?

The treatment itself is not dangerous. According to Zhang, she only touches your lashes so the solution won't touch your skin or eyes. "Besides a bit of itchiness or light tingling, you won't feel much," she says. Other than that, you might just be a little bored. The treatment takes about an hour, and you need to be still for the duration. "Some people just can't be still for that long without opening their eyes," says Zhang, "so they might feel a little uncomfortable."

What do I need to know before going?

"To get a lash lift, lashes will need to be clean and in their natural colour," says Zhang. She also recommends waiting two months between lash lifts if you want to start getting them regularly.

Another thing that Zhang recommends you be aware of is that she only works with your natural lashes. Many people decide to do a lash lift and have high hopes for the results, and end up being a little disappoints—these aren't lash extensions. A lash lift doesn't add length or volume, it simply curls your lashes. It can offer the illusion of length, but overall it's a more subtle change.

How long does it last?

Lash lifts last until the lash falls out in its natural growth cycle—Zhang says that this is about 90 days. But, you may find your lashes looking like they have fallen sooner thanks to new growth. Although you may be tempted to go back to get your eyelashes re-lifted each month, Zhang recommends waiting 3 months—2 at the very least—so as not to damage your lashes.

How much does it cost?

At Lac + Beauty, a lash lift will cost you around $70, though the price may vary from place to place. You can usually assume that it won't cost you more than $100 for the treatment.

How do I maintain it?

For the most part, this is a pretty easy treatment to maintain. You'll need to keep your lashes dry for the first 24 hours, but after that, you're free to live your life!