Eyelash Lift in Korea: Complete Guide to Lash Perm, Prices & Best Salons 2025

Eyelash lifts, also known as lash perms or lash lifts, have become one of the most popular low-maintenance beauty treatments in Korea. If you've ever wondered how Korean women achieve those perfectly curled, wide-awake eyes without daily mascara or eyelash curlers, the secret is often an eyelash lift. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting an eyelash lift in Korea, from pricing and procedures to the best salons and aftercare tips.

Korea's beauty industry has perfected the eyelash lift technique, offering natural-looking results that last for weeks, all at incredibly affordable prices compared to Western countries. Whether you have straight, downward-pointing lashes or simply want to enhance your natural curl, Korean lash lift experts can transform your eyes with this simple, non-invasive treatment.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about eyelash lift procedures. It is not intended as medical advice. While eyelash lifts are generally safe when performed by trained professionals, they involve chemicals near the eyes. Always ensure your technician is properly licensed and uses quality products. If you have sensitive eyes, allergies, or eye conditions, consult with an eye care professional before proceeding.

What is an Eyelash Lift?

An eyelash lift (속눈썹 펌 or "sok-nun-ssup perm" in Korean), also called a lash perm or lash lift, is a semi-permanent treatment that curls your natural lashes from the base to create a lifted, wide-eyed appearance. Think of it as a perm for your eyelashes - it uses a gentle chemical solution to break down the bonds in your lashes, reshape them around a silicone rod, and then reform those bonds to hold the new curved shape.

Korean Terms You Should Know

• 속눈썹 펌 (sok-nun-ssup perm) = Eyelash perm/lash lift
• 래쉬 리프트 (lash lift) = Lash lift (English loanword)
• 뷰러 펌 (byu-reo perm) = Curler perm (mimicking eyelash curler effect)
• 듀얼 펌 (dual perm) = Upper + lower lash perm
• 복구 펌 (bok-gu perm) = Restoration perm (for damaged lashes)

How is it Different from Eyelash Extensions?

Eyelash Lift:

• Works with your natural lashes
• Adds curl, not length or volume
• Lasts 4-8 weeks
• Minimal maintenance
• More affordable
• No daily removal required
• Looks natural even without makeup

Eyelash Extensions:

• Adds synthetic lashes to natural ones
• Adds length, volume, and curl
• Requires fills every 2-4 weeks
• High maintenance (special cleansers, no oil, careful washing)
• More expensive
• Dramatic, made-up look

Benefits of Getting an Eyelash Lift

Why Koreans (and international visitors) love eyelash lifts:

• Time-saving: Wake up with curled lashes every morning
• Low maintenance: No daily curling or mascara needed (though you can still use it!)
• Natural look: Enhances your natural lashes without looking artificial
• Waterproof: Swim, shower, cry - your curl stays intact
• Long-lasting: 4-8 weeks of perfectly lifted lashes
• Eye-opening effect: Makes eyes appear larger and more awake
• Cost-effective: Affordable treatment with long-lasting results
• Safe for glasses wearers: Unlike extensions, won't hit glasses lenses
• Perfect for active lifestyles: Gym, sports, swimming - no smudging or running

Eyelash Lift Prices in Korea 2025

One of the best aspects of getting an eyelash lift in Korea is the affordability. Prices are significantly lower than in Western countries while maintaining high quality standards.

Price Range Overview

*Prices as of November 2025. Exchange rate: ₩1,300 ≈ $1 USD (subject to change)

What Affects Pricing?

1. Location

• Gangnam/Cheongdam/Apgujeong: Premium pricing (+20-30%)
• Hongdae/Sinchon: Mid-range, trendy salons
• Other Seoul districts: Budget-friendly options
• Outside Seoul: 15-25% less expensive

2. Salon Reputation

• Celebrity/influencer-favored salons: ₩45,000-60,000
• Established neighborhood salons: ₩30,000-45,000
• New salons/promotions: ₩20,000-30,000

3. Add-On Services

• Lash tinting (color): +₩10,000-15,000 ($8-$12)
• Keratin treatment (strengthening): +₩10,000-15,000 ($8-$12)
• Lower lash perm: +₩10,000-20,000 ($8-$15)
• Lash serum/conditioning: +₩5,000-10,000 ($4-$8)

4. Curl Type

• Natural curl: Standard pricing
• C-curl (medium): Standard pricing
• D-curl (dramatic): May cost ₩5,000-10,000 more

Price Comparison: Korea vs. Other Countries

Savings: 50-75% compared to Western countries

Types of Eyelash Lifts

Korean salons offer various eyelash lift styles to suit different eye shapes, lash lengths, and desired looks.

1. Natural Curl / C-Curl (자연스러운 컬)

What it is: A gentle, natural-looking lift that mimics the curve of an eyelash curler. The most popular option in Korea.

Best For:

• Daily, natural makeup looks
• Professional environments
• Those new to lash lifts
• Short to medium lash length

Characteristics:

• ✅ Subtle, elegant curve
• ✅ Natural appearance even without makeup
• ✅ Suitable for all eye shapes
• ✅ Lower maintenance

Duration: 4-6 weeks average

2. Dramatic Curl / D-Curl (볼륨있는 컬)

What it is: A more pronounced, glamorous curl that creates a wide-eyed, doll-like effect.

Best For:

• Those who love bold makeup
• Hooded eyes (helps lashes visible)
• Longer natural lashes
• Special occasions or photo shoots

Characteristics:

• ✅ Maximum curl and lift
• ✅ Eye-opening effect
• ✅ Dramatic, noticeable results
• ✅ Works well with mascara for extra impact

Duration: 4-6 weeks average

3. Dual Perm (듀얼 펌)

What it is: Lifting and curling both upper AND lower lashes for a complete eye transformation.

Best For:

• Those with long lower lashes
• People wanting maximum eye definition
• Special events or extended trips
• Korean makeup enthusiasts (popular in K-beauty)

Characteristics:

• ✅ Complete eye framing
• ✅ Balanced upper and lower lash appearance
• ✅ Very open, bright-eyed look
• ✅ Popular among Korean beauty influencers

Duration: Upper lashes 4-6 weeks, lower lashes 3-5 weeks Price: ₩45,000-60,000 ($35-$46)

4. Restoration Perm (복구 펌)

What it is: A specialized treatment for over-processed, damaged, or weakened lashes using gentler formulas and conditioning treatments.

Best For:

• Previously over-processed lashes
• Damaged lashes from extensions
• Thin or brittle lashes
• First-time after lash extension removal

Characteristics:

• ✅ Gentler chemical formula
• ✅ Includes conditioning and strengthening
• ✅ Focuses on lash health
• ✅ More subtle curl to prevent stress

Duration: 3-5 weeks (as lashes recover) Price: ₩35,000-50,000 ($27-$38)

The Eyelash Lift Procedure: Step-by-Step

Before Your Appointment

1 Week Before:

• ❌ Avoid getting eyelash extensions (remove if you have them)
• ❌ Don't use eyelash curlers excessively
• ✅ Start using lash serum if you have weak lashes

24 Hours Before:

• Remove all eye makeup thoroughly
• Avoid waterproof mascara (hard to remove completely)
• Skip oil-based eye products
• If you wear contacts, bring glasses or solution

Day of Appointment:

• Arrive with clean, makeup-free eyes
• No mascara or eyeliner
• Remove contact lenses before procedure

During the Treatment (45-60 minutes)

Step 1: Consultation and Cleansing (5-10 minutes)

• Technician assesses your natural lash length, direction, and condition
• Discuss desired curl type (C-curl, D-curl, natural)
• Choose rod size based on your lash length
• Thorough cleansing to remove all oils and residue

Step 2: Rod Application (5 minutes)

• Eye gel pads placed under lower lashes for protection
• Silicone lifting rod applied to upper eyelid
• Natural lashes combed upward and adhered to rod using gentle adhesive
• Each lash separated and positioned for even curl

Step 3: Lifting Solution (10-15 minutes)

• Perming solution (Solution 1) applied to lashes
• This breaks down the bonds in your lash hairs
• Processing time depends on lash thickness:
  • Fine lashes: 8-10 minutes
  • Normal lashes: 10-12 minutes
  • Thick lashes: 12-15 minutes
• Technician monitors carefully to prevent over-processing

Step 4: Setting Solution (10-12 minutes)

• Lifting solution removed completely
• Setting solution (Solution 2) applied
• This reforms the bonds to hold new curved shape
• Lashes begin to "remember" their new curl

Step 5: Tinting (Optional, 5-10 minutes)

• If you chose lash tinting, dye is applied now
• Black, dark brown, or brown color options
• Deepens lash color for more dramatic effect without mascara

Step 6: Conditioning and Removal (5 minutes)

• Nourishing serum or keratin treatment applied
• All products carefully removed
• Lashes gently cleaned and separated
• Technician reviews aftercare instructions

Pain Level: None to minimal. You'll keep your eyes closed the entire time. Some people experience slight tingling if solution touches skin, but it's not painful.

Immediate Results

What you'll see right after:

• Dramatic curl from lash root to tip
• Eyes appear larger and more open
• Lashes lifted away from eye
• Natural lashes visible and defined
• May look "too curled" initially (this relaxes slightly in 24-48 hours)

Results and Duration

What Results Can You Expect?

Immediate Effects:

• Visible curl and lift from base to tip
• Wider, more awake-looking eyes
• Enhanced natural lash appearance
• No need for eyelash curler

Progressive Results (First Week):

• Curl settles to a natural-looking lift
• Lashes soften slightly from initial treatment
• Final shape becomes apparent
• Perfect curl without being overly dramatic

Long-term Benefits:

• Consistently curled lashes for 4-8 weeks
• Low-maintenance eye makeup routine
• Natural enhancement that works with or without mascara
• Time saved every morning

How Long Do Eyelash Lifts Last?

Average Duration: 4-8 weeks

Duration by Individual Factors:

Short Duration (3-5 weeks):

• Oily skin/eyelids
• Fast lash growth cycle
• Frequent rubbing or touching
• Regular eye makeup use with oil-based removers
• Hormonal changes affecting hair growth

Average Duration (5-7 weeks):

• Normal skin type
• Average lash growth cycle
• Gentle eye area care
• Occasional makeup use

Long Duration (7-8+ weeks):

• Dry skin type
• Slow lash growth cycle
• Minimal eye touching
• Excellent aftercare
• Use of lash conditioning serums

Why Lashes Eventually Return to Normal:

• Natural lash cycle: Your lashes have a 6-8 week growth cycle
• New growth: New, straight lashes grow in at the base
• Gradual transition: As old lashes shed, new uncurled lashes replace them
• Not damage: The lift doesn't "fall out" - natural lash turnover causes it

Maintenance and Touch-Ups

Recommended Schedule:

• First lash lift: Enjoy for 4-8 weeks
• First touch-up: When 50% of lashes have returned to natural state (4-6 weeks)
• Regular maintenance: Every 6-8 weeks for optimal results
• Recovery breaks: Some experts recommend one lash cycle off (8 weeks) every 3-4 treatments

Touch-Up Pricing:

• Usually same price as initial treatment
• Some salons offer loyalty discounts (10-20% off)
• Package deals: Buy 3 get 1 free, or similar promotions

Aftercare Guide for Long-Lasting Results

Proper aftercare is crucial for maximizing the longevity of your lash lift. Follow these guidelines carefully.

First 24 Hours (CRITICAL)

DO:

• ✅ Keep lashes completely dry
• ✅ Avoid touching or rubbing eyes
• ✅ Sleep on your back if possible
• ✅ Be patient with the strong curl (it will relax slightly)

DON'T:

• ❌ Water on lashes (no shower steam, no face washing directly on eyes)
• ❌ Makeup on or near lashes
• ❌ Crying (try your best!)
• ❌ Swimming, sauna, steam room
• ❌ Eyelash curler (unnecessary and harmful)
• ❌ Oil-based products near eyes

Why 24 Hours Matters: The chemical bonds in your lashes are still setting during this period. Water or oils can interrupt the process, causing uneven curl or premature straightening.

First Week

DO:

• ✅ Gently cleanse around eyes (avoid direct lash contact)
• ✅ Pat dry very gently
• ✅ Brush lashes daily with clean spoolie
• ✅ Apply lash conditioning serum if provided

DON'T:

• ❌ Waterproof mascara (very difficult to remove, requires rubbing)
• ❌ Oil-based makeup removers
• ❌ Hot yoga, intense steam exposure
• ❌ Rubbing or pulling lashes
• ❌ Sleeping face-down on pillow

Long-Term Maintenance (Weeks 2-8)

DO:

• ✅ Use oil-free makeup removers
• ✅ Cleanse lashes gently daily
• ✅ Brush lashes with spoolie in morning and night
• ✅ Use lash growth serum to maintain health
• ✅ Sleep on silk/satin pillowcase if possible
• ✅ Regular mascara is fine (water-based formulas best)

DON'T:

• ❌ Never use mechanical eyelash curler on lifted lashes
• ❌ Avoid heavy, oil-based eye creams on lash line
• ❌ Don't pick at or pull lashes
• ❌ Excessive eye rubbing (allergies, tired eyes)

Pro Tips from Korean Lash Technicians:

1. Brush upward daily: Use a clean spoolie to brush lashes upward every morning to maintain shape
2. Vaseline at night: Some technicians recommend tiny amount of petroleum jelly on lash tips at night (not roots!) for conditioning
3. Lash serum: Products with biotin, peptides, or castor oil can strengthen lashes between treatments
4. Gentle everything: Treat your lashes like delicate silk - gentle cleansing, gentle drying, gentle makeup application

Common Side Effects and Considerations

Normal Effects (Temporary)

Expected reactions that resolve quickly:

• Slight redness (30 minutes - 2 hours): Eyes may be pink immediately after due to lying still with eyes closed
• Sensitivity (1-2 days): Eyes might feel slightly sensitive or tired
• Over-curled appearance (1-3 days): Initial curl appears very strong, relaxes to natural look within days
• Mild dryness (1-3 days): Lashes may feel slightly dry as chemicals are processed out

Possible Issues (Less Common)

Problems that may require attention:

• Allergic reaction: Redness, swelling, itching beyond normal (very rare with patch test)
• Over-processing: Lashes appear too curly, kinked, or damaged (choose experienced technician to avoid)
• Uneven curl: Some lashes curl more than others (can be corrected at follow-up)
• Eye irritation: If solution contacts eye (immediately flush with water, inform technician)
• Lash breakage: Over-processed or damaged lashes (use restoration treatments)

Who Should Avoid Eyelash Lifts?

Not recommended for:

• ❌ Very short lashes (less than 4mm) - not enough length to curl effectively
• ❌ Recently had eye surgery or injury
• ❌ Active eye infections (pink eye, styes, etc.)
• ❌ Extremely sensitive eyes with frequent reactions
• ❌ Pregnancy (some doctors advise caution with chemicals, though many pregnant women do get them)
• ❌ Chemotherapy patients (lashes may be too weak)

Consult a professional first if you have:

• Contact lenses (remove before treatment)
• Eye allergies or sensitivities
• History of reactions to hair chemicals
• Alopecia or significant lash loss

Best Eyelash Lift Salons in Seoul

Top Neighborhoods for Lash Lifts

1. Gangnam District (강남구)

• Best for: Quality, English-speaking staff, latest techniques
• Price range: ₩30,000-55,000 ($23-$42)
• Subway: Gangnam Station (Line 2), Sinnonhyeon Station (Line 9)

Notable Salons:

• Labotte Lash Gangnam (라보떼래쉬 강남점): 905+ Naver reviews, customized perms for different eye types, first-time discounts
• Mondo Seoul Yeoksam: Ranked #1 in Gangnam Yeoksam searches, first-time 30,000won

2. Apgujeong/Cheongdam (압구정/청담)

• Best for: Premium service, celebrity-favored salons
• Price range: ₩35,000-60,000 ($27-$46)
• Subway: Apgujeong Station (Line 3), Apgujeong Rodeo Station (Bundang Line)

Notable Salons:

• Woosun Studio (우선스튜디오): Specializes in dual perm and restoration perm

3. Hongdae/Sinchon (홍대/신촌)

• Best for: Young, trendy crowd, affordable prices, creative styles
• Price range: ₩20,000-40,000 ($15-$31)
• Subway: Hongik University Station (Line 2), Sinchon Station (Line 2)

4. Myeongdong (명동)

• Best for: International tourists, convenient location, English support
• Price range: ₩25,000-45,000 ($19-$35)
• Subway: Myeongdong Station (Line 4)

How to Choose a Salon

Research Checklist:

• ✅ Check Naver reviews and ratings (네이버 리뷰)
• ✅ Look at Instagram before/after photos
• ✅ Verify they use quality products (brands like RefectoCil, Elleebana, InLei)
• ✅ Confirm technician experience (minimum 6 months preferred)
• ✅ Ask about English support if needed
• ✅ Check hygiene standards (clean tools, disposable applicators)

Red Flags to Avoid:

• ❌ Prices significantly below ₩15,000 ($12) - quality concerns
• ❌ No portfolio or before/after photos
• ❌ Unclean environment or reused tools
• ❌ Rushing through consultation
• ❌ Using unbranded or unknown chemical solutions
• ❌ No patch test offered for sensitive clients

Booking Tips:

• Many salons use Naver booking (네이버 예약) or KakaoTalk
• Walk-ins possible but reservations recommended (especially weekends)
• First-time customer discounts common
• Package deals available (buy 3-5 treatments upfront for discount)

Tips for International Visitors

Before You Travel

Research Phase (1-2 weeks before):

• Browse salon portfolios on Naver, Instagram, or KakaoMap
• Read recent reviews (use Papago or Google Translate)
• Save screenshots of desired lash curl styles
• Contact salons via email or Instagram DM for English support confirmation

Questions to Ask:

• Do you have English-speaking staff? (영어 가능하세요?)
• What products/brands do you use?
• Do you offer patch tests for sensitive eyes?
• What's the total price including any taxes or fees?
• How long is the appointment?

Timing Your Visit

Scheduling Considerations:

• Best timing: Early in your trip (Day 1-2) so you can enjoy results during stay
• Appointment duration: Allow 60-90 minutes
• Immediate restrictions: 24 hours no water, so plan accordingly
• No downtime: Can resume activities immediately after, just keep lashes dry

Best Time to Visit Korea:

• Spring (April-May) or Fall (Sept-Oct): Comfortable weather, easier to avoid sweating
• Summer: Can be humid and hot (harder to keep lashes dry after treatment)
• Winter: Indoor-friendly, dry weather actually helps lashes stay set

Communication Tips

Useful Korean Phrases:

• 속눈썹 펌 하고 싶어요 (Sok-nun-ssup perm ha-go ship-eo-yo) = "I want an eyelash perm"
• 자연스러운 컬로 부탁해요 (Ja-yeon-seu-reo-un curl-ro bu-tak-hae-yo) = "Natural curl please"
• 영어 가능하세요? (Yeong-eo ga-neung-ha-se-yo?) = "Do you speak English?"
• 얼마예요? (Eol-ma-ye-yo?) = "How much is it?"

Visual Communication:

• Bring reference photos of desired curl type
• Point to curl rods during consultation
• Use Google Translate or Papago app for detailed questions
• Most lash technicians understand universal beauty terms: "natural," "volume," "C-curl," "D-curl"

Payment Methods

Commonly Accepted:

• Cash (Korean won) - often preferred, sometimes 5-10% discount
• Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
• Mobile payment (KakaoPay, Naver Pay if you have Korean phone number)
• Some accept Alipay or WeChat Pay in tourist areas

Budget Planning:

• Lash lift: ₩20,000-55,000 ($15-$42)
• Lash tinting: +₩10,000-15,000 ($8-$12)
• Tip: Not required or expected in Korea
• Total estimated: ₩30,000-60,000 ($23-$46) including tinting

Aftercare While Traveling

Packing List:

• Clean spoolie brush (ask salon, they often provide)
• Oil-free makeup remover
• Water-based mascara (if you want to use)
• Lash conditioning serum (optional)

Travel Tips:

• Book salon early in trip to enjoy results during stay
• Schedule treatment for morning so you can skip water all day easily
• Plan indoor activities for first 24 hours (shopping, museums)
• Bring hat or cap to avoid rain for first day
• No worries for flight home - lash lifts won't be affected by cabin pressure

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does eyelash lift damage your natural lashes? A: When performed correctly by an experienced technician using quality products, eyelash lifts do not damage lashes. However, over-processing (too frequent treatments or too-strong solutions) can weaken lashes. Follow the recommended 6-8 week intervals between treatments and take occasional breaks to let lashes fully cycle.

Q: Can I wear mascara after an eyelash lift? A: Yes! In fact, mascara looks even better on lifted lashes. Wait 24 hours after treatment, then use water-based (not waterproof) mascara for easiest removal. Many people find they need less mascara or can skip it entirely after a lift.

Q: Will my lashes fall out after the lift wears off? A: No. The curl gradually disappears as your natural lashes go through their normal growth cycle (6-8 weeks). Old lashes shed naturally and are replaced by new, uncurled lashes. This is normal lash turnover, not damage from the treatment.

Q: Is eyelash lift painful? A: Not at all! You keep your eyes closed the entire time. Most people find it relaxing and even fall asleep during the treatment. There's no discomfort during or after the procedure.

Q: Can I get an eyelash lift if I wear contact lenses? A: Yes, but you must remove contacts before the treatment. Bring glasses or contact solution/case. The chemicals used should not come in contact with eyes, but it's a safety precaution. You can put contacts back in after the treatment is complete.

Q: How soon can I shower or wash my face after eyelash lift? A: Wait a full 24 hours before getting lashes wet. After that, you can shower, wash your face, and live normally. Just be gentle when cleansing around the eye area and avoid rubbing lashes.

Q: What's the difference between eyelash lift and lash extensions? A: Lash lifts curl your natural lashes using a perm solution - no lashes are added. Extensions glue individual synthetic lashes onto your natural ones for added length and volume. Lifts are lower maintenance, less expensive, and look more natural. Extensions are higher maintenance but provide dramatic length and fullness.

Q: Can I swim after getting an eyelash lift? A: Wait 24-48 hours, then yes! Once the lift has fully set, you can swim, shower, and get lashes wet without affecting the curl. Many people love lash lifts specifically because they're waterproof and perfect for swimming.

Q: My lashes are very short. Will a lash lift work? A: For best results, lashes should be at least 4-5mm long. Very short lashes (under 4mm) may not have enough length to create a visible curl. Consult with a technician - they can assess whether your natural lash length is sufficient. If not, consider lash extensions or lash growth serum for a few months before attempting a lift.

Conclusion

Eyelash lifts in Korea offer an incredible opportunity to achieve effortlessly beautiful, curled lashes at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries. With prices ranging from ₩20,000-55,000 ($15-$42) for professional treatments, advanced techniques customized to your eye shape, and highly skilled technicians throughout Seoul, Korea is the perfect destination for this low-maintenance beauty enhancement.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Affordable pricing: 50-75% less expensive than Western countries ✅ Natural enhancement: Works with your natural lashes, no extensions needed ✅ Long-lasting results: Enjoy 4-8 weeks of perfectly curled lashes ✅ Minimal maintenance: No daily curling required, waterproof and sweat-proof ✅ Wide-awake eyes: Creates eye-opening effect without makeup ✅ Safe and comfortable: Non-invasive procedure with minimal side effects ✅ International-friendly: Many Seoul salons cater to foreign clients

Ready to wake up with perfectly curled lashes every day? Research salons with strong portfolios, book in advance for popular locations, communicate your desired curl intensity, and follow aftercare instructions carefully. With the right technician and proper maintenance, you'll enjoy beautiful, low-maintenance lashes that enhance your natural beauty for weeks to come.

For more Korean beauty treatments, explore our guides on eyebrow tattoos, eyelid surgery, and choosing the right beauty salon in Gangnam.

Last Updated: November 20, 2025 Reading Time: 12 minutes Word Count: Approximately 1,800 words