Lashes can be boosted, curled or added to. Each option does a different job. Here is how serum, lash lifts and extensions compare, so you can pick the one that suits your lashes and your routine.

What is the difference between a lash serum, a lash lift and lash extensions?

A lash serum aims to support your own lashes so they look fuller and longer over time, a lash lift curls the lashes you already have, and extensions add synthetic lashes on top of them. One works on growth, one on shape, one on added length and volume.

Serum: you apply it yourself at home. Lash Population is a peptide-based growth serum (NZD $79) that you brush along the upper lash line once daily on clean, dry lashes.

Lash lift: a salon treatment that sets your natural lashes in a curled position. It changes the angle of your lashes, not their length.

Extensions: a lash artist attaches individual lashes to your natural ones, with regular infills as your natural lashes shed and the set grows out.

Which one is right for me?

The right choice depends on what you want to change and how much upkeep you will actually do. Ask yourself three things.

Do you want more of your own lashes? Pick a serum. It is the only option here that is about supporting your natural lashes rather than styling them.

Do you want an instant curl with no daily effort? A lift is built for that, and you skip the curler and the glue.

Do you want dramatic length or volume now? Extensions deliver the biggest visible change on the day, with the most maintenance.

Can I combine a serum with a lift or extensions?

Yes, a serum can sit alongside either one. Lash Population works on bare lashes or under extensions, so it fits around your salon visits. If you wear extensions, our guide on using lash serum with extensions covers the details. For a lift, check timing and aftercare with your technician first.

Many people use the serum to support the lashes underneath, then choose a lift or extensions for the look. It is not a case of one or the other.

How do the three compare on upkeep and commitment?

Serum asks for a small daily habit, lifts and extensions ask for salon appointments. With Lash Population, apply a thin line once daily for 1 to 12 weeks, then 2 to 3 times per week to maintain. Extensions need infills, and caring for them well matters, which our post on making lash extensions last longer walks through.

Results vary from person to person, and none of these is a magic fix. Lash Population comes with a 90-day Growth Guarantee, so you can try it with confidence. Lash artists recommend it, and salons can order a wholesale 12-pack.

Frequently asked questions

Is a lash serum better than a lash lift?

They do different jobs. A serum supports your natural lashes, while a lift curls them. Choose based on whether you want growth support or a curled look.

Can I use lash serum if I have lash extensions?

Yes. Lash Population works on bare lashes or under extensions. Apply a thin line along the upper lash line once daily on clean, dry lashes.

How often should I apply Lash Population?

Once daily for 1 to 12 weeks, then 2 to 3 times per week to maintain.

Do lash extensions damage natural lashes?

Extensions applied by a skilled artist and cared for properly are designed to sit on your natural lashes without harming them. Poor application or rough handling can cause problems, so book with a trusted professional.

What if the serum does not work for me?

Lash Population is backed by a 90-day Growth Guarantee. Contact hello@boldpopulation.com for help.

Get yours: Shop Lash Population lash growth serum.