Long, thick eyelashes are sexy and alluring. They draw attention to the eyes, which are central to human attraction. For people with thinner or shorter eyelashes, falsies or eyelash extensions can create the appearance of full, lush lashes. You also have the option of growing your own beautiful eyelashes with Latisse, an FDA-approved eyelash growth serum for longer, darker, thicker lashes. So how do these options compare? Here’s what you need to know about eyelash extensions vs. Latisse. 

What are eyelash extensions and how do they work? 

Eyelash extensions are semi-permanent, single-strand false lashes that can be made from synthetic materials, real silk fiber, or real mink fur.  Lash extensions come in different curl types, and different widths and lengths. Each extension is hand glued on top of a natural lash, making them highly customizable and natural-looking. For the first appointment, it typically takes about two hours to apply a full set of lash extensions. The lash extensions will shed with your natural hair growth cycle, so you’ll need touch-up appointments every few weeks.  Touch-ups typically take 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how many extensions you need to restore the fullness of your lashes. The cost of lash extensions varies from one salon to the next, but you can expect to pay $125 to $300 for a full set, depending on the type of lashes, the location of the salon, and the expertise of the lash artist. 

What is Latisse and how does it work? 

Latisse is a lash-growth serum that is applied to the base of your upper lash line every night. The main active ingredient, bimatoprost, was originally used in prescription medication for glaucoma, but when glaucoma patients began to report longer, fuller, thicker lashes, it led to the development of the first FDA-approved treatment for eyelash growth.  Latisse works by increasing the number of lashes grown, as well as lengthening the growth phase of the hair follicles. The serum is applied to the lashes nightly, using the provided sterile, disposable applicator to carefully draw the solution from the inner part of your upper lash line to the outer edge. Each applicator should be discarded after use, and a clean one used for each eye. The average cost of a 30-day supply of Latisse is around $130 or $140, and many providers offer a volume discount. It usually takes 4-6 weeks of consistent use to see longer lashes, and 16 weeks to see fuller, thicker lashes. As long as you continue to apply the serum nightly, your lashes will remain long, dark, and lush. 

Latisse vs lash extensions: Which is better? 

Latisse and lash extensions can both give you beautiful sultry lashes, but each has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your preference.  For example, one person may enjoy visiting the salon while another prefers the simple ease of applying the serum at home. To make it easy to compare the two and decide which one’s right for you, here’s a brief summary:  

Lash Extensions

❌ False lashes

❌ Two-hour salon visit

❌ Maintenance every few weeks

✅ Immediate results

Latisse

✅ Natural lashes

✅ DIY home treatment

❌ Nightly use

✅ Longer lashes in 4-6 weeks

✅ Fuller lashes in 16 weeks

We’re partial to Latisse, but if you don’t think you’d be able to use it consistently, it’s probably best to go with lash extensions. If you do decide you want to try Latisse for longer, thicker lashes, come see us at Siti Med Spa!

Get Latisse in San Diego at Siti Med Spa

At Siti Med Spa in San Diego, we’re committed to working with you to help you reach your beauty goals. We offer the latest in FDA-approved cosmetic medical treatments, including Latisse. If your eyelashes are short or thinning and you’re dreaming about longer, fuller, darker lashes, we’re here for you! For more information about Latisse, or to schedule a consultation, give us a call at (619) 717-8484 today.