What services does Eye Candy Medspa and Lash Bar offer?

Eye Candy Medspa offers Botox, dermal fillers, PDO thread lifting, Kybella fat dissolving, laser hair removal, laser tattoo removal, laser facials, body contouring, cryosculpting, eyelash extensions, brow lamination, semi-permanent makeup, facial treatments, and IV therapy.

Where are Eye Candy Medspa locations?

Eye Candy Medspa has three locations: Buena Park at 5801 Lincoln Ave, Suite B (714-723-0770); Newport Beach at 1829 Westcliff Dr (949-877-0256); and Lakewood at 11134 Del Amo Blvd (562-402-1888).

What are the hours of operation at Eye Candy Medspa?

Monday–Saturday 9am–7pm and Sunday 10am–6pm. Newport Beach opens at 10am on weekdays.

Does Eye Candy Medspa offer Botox treatments?

Yes, Eye Candy Medspa offers Botox and Letybo injections by licensed medical professionals to smooth wrinkles, crow's feet, forehead lines, and frown lines.

How much does laser hair removal cost at Eye Candy Medspa?

Laser hair removal packages start from $575 for a Small Package (6 sessions). Medium is $650, Large $725, and X-Large $800. Current BOGO promotion available on all packages.

Does Eye Candy Medspa offer IV therapy?

Yes, IV therapy options include Myers' Cocktail, Vitamin C, B12, Glutathione, NAD+, Hangover IV, and hydration drips to support energy, immunity, and overall wellness.

Can I book an appointment online?

Yes, book online at eyecandymedbeauty.com/contact/ or call: Buena Park (714-723-0770), Newport Beach (949-877-0256), or Lakewood (562-402-1888).

How many Google reviews does Eye Candy Medspa have?

Eye Candy Medspa has over 1,086 Google reviews and a 5-star rating on Yelp with 411 reviews, making it one of the most trusted medspas in Southern California.

Can I still wear mascara with lash extensions?

You will not need mascara most days. Extensions already add length and volume. Still, you can use a lash-safe formula if you want. Skip waterproof mascara, since it is hard to remove. Never use it on Volume or Mega Volume sets. The fans can clump and lose their shape.

How should I sleep with eyelash extensions?

Try to sleep on your back when you can. This keeps pressure off your lashes. Side and stomach sleeping can bend or break them. A silk or satin pillowcase helps a lot too. It lets lashes slide instead of catching. Good sleep habits stretch your set further.

Are eyelash extensions safe if I have sensitive eyes?

Many people with sensitive eyes wear extensions fine. Still, tell your artist before you book. Share any past reactions or eye conditions. This helps us plan the safest approach for you. Watery or sensitive eyes may need extra care. So stop and tell us if anything stings. Your comfort guides every step.

Can I get lash extensions for a wedding or event?

Yes, extensions are perfect for big days. They photograph beautifully and last for weeks. Book your set a few days before the event. This gives any redness time to settle. We can also do a trial run first. That way you love the look in advance.

Do eyelash extensions hurt?

No, a good appointment feels relaxing. Your eyes stay gently closed the whole time. Each extension sits on a single lash. So nothing pulls or tugs at your skin. Many clients drift off and nap. You should never feel any sharp pain.

How do I make my lash extensions last longer?

A few small habits make a big difference. Keep your lashes clean with a lash-safe wash. Brush them gently with a spoolie each morning. Avoid oil-based products near your eyes. Skip steam rooms and heavy rubbing too. Then book your fills every two to three weeks.

Why does laser hair removal take 6 to 8 sessions instead of just one or two?

Only the hairs in their active growth phase are vulnerable to the laser, which is roughly 20 to 30 percent of your total hair at any given moment. Each session catches a new wave of follicles cycling into growth, and the math works out to 6 to 8 sessions for full coverage. For a deeper breakdown of session timing, read our complete guide at https://eyecandymedbeauty.com/how-many-laser-hair-removal-sessions/.

Can laser hair removal help with ingrown hairs and razor bumps?

Yes. For most clients with chronic ingrown hairs or razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae), laser hair removal is one of the most effective long-term solutions. By targeting the follicle directly, the laser reduces or eliminates the recurring hairs that cause inflammation and ingrowns in the first place. Many Lakewood clients book laser specifically because shaving, waxing, and threading kept producing the same skin irritation cycle.

Will laser hair removal work if I have PCOS or unwanted hormonal hair growth?

Laser hair removal works on hormonal hair, but the timeline and maintenance look different. PCOS, thyroid conditions, and other hormonal imbalances can stimulate new follicles long after your initial series ends, which means you'll likely need a few extra sessions during your first round and occasional maintenance touch-ups over the years. Your provider will design your plan with this pattern in mind.

Can I switch from waxing to laser hair removal?

Yes, but you'll need to stop waxing, threading, sugaring, plucking, and any other root-removal methods at least 4 weeks before your first laser session. The laser needs an intact follicle to target, and methods that pull the entire hair from the root leave the laser with nothing to find. Shaving is the only hair removal method allowed during this 4-week transition window.

Can I get laser hair removal on tattooed skin?

The laser cannot fire over tattooed areas, since the ink absorbs the laser energy in ways that can damage both the skin and the tattoo. Your provider will plan treatment to work around any existing tattoos, leaving a small buffer zone around the ink. If you're considering a new tattoo in an area you'd like to laser, we recommend completing your laser series first.

Does shaving between laser sessions cause hair to grow back thicker?

No. Shaving doesn't change the thickness, color, or growth rate of your hair. The myth comes from how shaved hair looks: it grows back with a blunt tip rather than a tapered one, which can feel coarser. Hair growing in between your laser sessions is part of the natural cycle the laser is working through, and it's already on its way out.

Will laser hair removal completely stop my hair from growing back?

Laser hair removal causes long-term reduction, not permanent removal. Most clients see 70 to 90 percent reduction after a full series of 6 to 8 sessions, with the remaining hair growing back finer and lighter than before. Some clients need annual maintenance touch-ups every year or two to catch new hairs from hormonal changes, but the majority of the original growth is gone for good.

Does laser hair removal work on all hair colors?

Laser hair removal works best on hair with active melanin, which means dark brown and black hair respond fastest. Blonde, red, gray, and white hair contain less melanin and don't absorb the laser energy as effectively, so results are typically slower or limited. During your consultation, your provider will assess your specific hair color and growth pattern and give you an honest read on what to expect.

How is the diode laser different from other hair removal lasers?

The diode laser uses a longer wavelength than older laser types, which lets it reach the hair follicle without absorbing as much energy at the skin surface. This makes it both more effective on darker skin tones and more comfortable during treatment. Older Nd:YAG and alexandrite lasers each have their own use cases, but for the range of clients we see, diode delivers consistent results with fewer settings adjustments per session.

Can I get laser hair removal while pregnant?

We don't perform laser hair removal on clients who are currently pregnant or breastfeeding. There aren't enough long-term safety studies on laser exposure during pregnancy to clear it as safe, and hormonal changes during and after pregnancy can alter hair growth patterns in ways that affect results. We recommend waiting until you've finished breastfeeding before starting or resuming a treatment series.

What does a laser hair removal session actually feel like?

Most clients describe each laser pulse as a quick warm snap, similar to a rubber band against the skin. Some areas are more sensitive than others, particularly the bikini line, upper lip, and underarms. Sessions are short. Underarms take a few minutes, full legs around 30 to 45 minutes. The diode laser's built-in cooling system helps the experience stay comfortable across the whole appointment.

How soon after my first session will I see results?

You'll notice the treated area looking smoother within a couple of weeks of your first session, but the most visible change is the shedding that happens 1 to 2 weeks in. Real reduction becomes visible around session 3 or 4. For a fuller breakdown of how many sessions you actually need, read our complete guide at https://eyecandymedbeauty.com/how-many-laser-hair-removal-sessions/.

Will laser hair removal completely stop my hair from growing back?

Laser hair removal causes long-term reduction, not permanent removal. Most clients see 70 to 90 percent reduction after a full series of 6 to 8 sessions, with the remaining hair growing back finer and lighter than before. Some clients need annual maintenance touch-ups every year or two to catch new hairs from hormonal changes, but the majority of the original growth is gone for good.

Does laser hair removal work on all hair colors?

Laser hair removal works best on hair with active melanin, which means dark brown and black hair respond fastest. Blonde, red, gray, and white hair contain less melanin and don't absorb the laser energy as effectively, so results are typically slower or limited. During your consultation, your provider will assess your specific hair color and growth pattern and give you an honest read on what to expect.

How is the diode laser different from other hair removal lasers?

The diode laser uses a longer wavelength than older laser types, which lets it reach the hair follicle without absorbing as much energy at the skin surface. This makes it both more effective on darker skin tones and more comfortable during treatment. Older Nd:YAG and alexandrite lasers each have their own use cases, but for the range of clients we see, diode delivers consistent results with fewer settings adjustments per session.

Can I get laser hair removal while pregnant?

We don't perform laser hair removal on clients who are currently pregnant or breastfeeding. There aren't enough long-term safety studies on laser exposure during pregnancy to clear it as safe, and hormonal changes during and after pregnancy can alter hair growth patterns in ways that affect results. We recommend waiting until you've finished breastfeeding before starting or resuming a treatment series.

What does a laser hair removal session actually feel like?

Most clients describe each laser pulse as a quick warm snap, similar to a rubber band against the skin. Some areas are more sensitive than others, particularly the bikini line, upper lip, and underarms. Sessions are short. Underarms take a few minutes, full legs around 30 to 45 minutes. The diode laser's built-in cooling system helps the experience stay comfortable across the whole appointment.

How soon after my first session will I see results?

You'll notice the treated area looking smoother within a couple of weeks of your first session, but the most visible change is the shedding that happens 1 to 2 weeks in. Real reduction becomes visible around session 3 or 4. For a fuller breakdown of how many sessions you actually need, read our complete guide at https://eyecandymedbeauty.com/how-many-laser-hair-removal-sessions/.

How do I know if I should start with Classic, Hybrid, Volume, or Mega Volume lashes?

It depends on your natural lash strength and the look you want. If your natural lashes are fine or sparse, we'll usually recommend Classic or Hybrid first since they're lighter and easier on the lash line. Volume and Mega Volume sets work best when your natural lashes can support more weight. Your Lakewood lash artist will assess your lashes and recommend the right starting point at your first appointment.

Should I get a lash lift instead of eyelash extensions in Lakewood?

It depends on what you're trying to solve. A lash lift curls your existing lashes for a wide-eyed effect without adding any product. Eyelash extensions add length, density, and curl using individual extensions glued to each natural lash. Both have different costs, timelines, and maintenance routines. We break it all down in our full comparison of lash lifts versus extensions at https://eyecandymedbeauty.com/lash-lift-vs-extensions-cost-longevity-compared/ if you want to dig deeper.

Can I wear contacts during my Lakewood lash appointment?

We recommend taking contacts out before your appointment and bringing your glasses to wear on the drive home. The lash adhesive releases minor vapors during curing that can irritate contact wearers. Your eyes also stay closed for 90 minutes to 3 hours, which dries contacts out and makes them uncomfortable. Plan to give your eyes a break and reinsert your contacts the next morning.

What does a healthy lash cycle look like when wearing extensions long-term?

Your natural lashes naturally shed and regrow on a roughly 60 to 90 day cycle, and that process continues with extensions on. As lashes shed, you'll lose extensions with them, which is why fills are part of the routine. Your Lakewood artist will watch how your natural lashes look across visits and recommend a short break (typically 2 to 4 weeks) once a year if your lash line needs it.

How long does a first-time lash appointment take at the Lakewood location?

Plan for 90 minutes to 3 hours for your first full set, depending on the style. Classic sets typically run 90 to 120 minutes, Hybrid and Volume sets run 2 to 2.5 hours, and Mega Volume can take up to 3 hours. The first appointment is usually slightly longer than fills, since the artist is mapping your set from scratch and you're getting full coverage on every lash.

What's the difference between a lash fill and a full set at the Lakewood location?

A full set is the initial appointment where extensions are applied to every healthy natural lash. A fill replaces the extensions that have shed naturally over the past 2 to 3 weeks, restoring the density of your original set. Fills are shorter (60 to 90 minutes), and they cost less than a full set. Most Lakewood clients alternate fills until they want to refresh with a new full set or change styles.

_Lash Lift vs Extensions_ Cost & Results

1511 Views April 27, 2026

Lash Lift vs Extensions: Cost & Longevity Compared

Quick Answer: A lash lift in Orange County costs about $75 to $150 per session and lasts 6 to 8 weeks with zero touch-ups. Lash extensions cost $100 to $400 for a full set and need fills every 2 to 3 weeks at $50 to $150 each, so they cost more over time but deliver a fuller, longer look you cannot get from a lift.

The lash lift vs extensions decision really comes down to two numbers: what you pay over a year, and how often you sit in the chair. At Eye Candy Medspa and Lash Bar, we have been doing both since 2016, and almost every consultation starts with the same question. Will a lift give me what I want, or do I need extensions? This guide breaks down the real cost, the real timeline, and which one fits which kind of person.

We serve clients in Buena Park, Lakewood, and Newport Beach, and what works for a busy mom in Lakewood is not always what works for a bride in Newport Beach. Both treatments are great. They are just built for different goals.

What Is a Lash Lift, and What Are Lash Extensions?

A lash lift is a chemical curl applied to your own natural lashes. The technician places a silicone shield on your eyelid, fans your lashes upward, and applies a softening solution that reshapes the lash bond. A setting solution locks the curl. Many clients add a tint to darken the lashes at the same appointment. The whole thing takes about 45 to 60 minutes. No glue. No synthetic fibers. Just your real lashes, curled up.

Lash extensions are individual synthetic fibers bonded to each natural lash with a medical-grade adhesive. You get to pick the length, curl, and style. Our eyelash extensions service includes classic, hybrid, and volume sets, so the look can be anywhere from natural to full glam. A full set takes 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the style.

How Much Does a Lash Lift Cost vs Extensions in Orange County?

A lash lift in Orange County typically runs $75 to $150 per session, or up to about $200 if you add a tint. Extensions are a wider range. A classic full set starts around $100 to $200. Hybrid and volume sets run $150 to $400. Mega volume can hit $500 at premium salons. The price gap is real on day one, and it gets wider over the year.

Here is what the math looks like over 12 months for a typical Buena Park or Lakewood client:

Lash lift: 6 to 8 appointments per year at $75 to $150 each. Annual cost roughly $450 to $1,200.
Lash extensions: One full set at $100 to $400, plus 17 to 26 fill appointments per year at $50 to $150 each. Annual cost roughly $950 to $4,200.

The lift wins on raw cost. The extensions win on visual impact. If you want the most natural enhancement for the smallest line item, the lift is the answer. If you want to wake up looking like you have mascara on, extensions are worth the investment.

How Long Does a Lash Lift Last Compared to Extensions?

A lash lift lasts 6 to 8 weeks. Your natural lashes go through a growth cycle of about 6 to 10 weeks, so as old lashes shed and new ones grow in, the curl gradually fades. When it does, you book another lift. There are no in-between appointments. No touch-ups. No emergency visits if you go to the gym too hard.

Lash extensions have a different timeline. The full set looks great for about 3 to 4 weeks, but you start losing a few extensions within the first week as your natural lashes shed. Most clients book fills every 2 to 3 weeks to keep the set looking dense. With consistent fills, extensions can last indefinitely. Skip a few fills and the set thins out fast.

So the longevity comparison depends on how you measure it. The lift lasts longer per appointment. The extensions can last forever if you keep up with fills. Pick the one that matches how much salon time you actually want.

Which Is Better for Your Natural Lashes?

A lash lift is gentler on your natural lashes when done by a trained tech. Nothing is added, nothing is bonded on. The lifting solution does reshape the lash bond, so going to an experienced studio matters. Cheap kits and rushed appointments can cause lash damage or irritation.

Extensions carry more risk on paper, mostly tied to the adhesive. The American Academy of Ophthalmology lists the main risks as eyelid or corneal infection, allergic reaction to the glue, and temporary or permanent loss of natural lashes. The Academy says the procedure can be safe when done by a trained aesthetician in a sanitary setting with quality products. That last part is the whole game. The technician is more important than the brand of glue.

At Eye Candy, every lash service is done by a licensed tech in a clean, dedicated lash room. We use medical-grade adhesive and we will turn down a client if their natural lashes are too weak to safely hold extensions. That is not the answer everyone wants, but it is the right one.

Does a Lash Lift or Extensions Damage Your Lashes?

Neither treatment damages your natural lashes when it is done correctly. Damage almost always comes from one of three things: an untrained tech, a poor adhesive, or bad aftercare at home. Rubbing your eyes, sleeping face-down on a pillow, and picking at extensions are the fastest ways to lose lashes.

If you are worried about damage, a lift is the lower-risk choice. If you want extensions, the fix is to pick the studio carefully. Read recent reviews. Ask if they do patch tests. Ask what brand of adhesive they use. A good lash bar will answer all of that without flinching.

Which One Is Right for You?

The lash lift vs extensions choice usually comes down to four questions. Be honest with yourself on each one.

Do you already have decent natural lashes? If yes, a lift will make them look noticeably longer and more open. If your lashes are very short or sparse, a lift will not give you the dramatic change you are picturing. Go with extensions.
How often do you want to be in a salon? Lift clients come in roughly every 7 weeks. Extension clients come in every 2 to 3 weeks. That is a big lifestyle difference.
What is your budget per year? $500 to $1,000 a year is a lift budget. $1,500 to $4,000 a year is an extension budget.
How dramatic do you want to look? Lifts are “no makeup, makeup.” Extensions are “I look done before I get out of bed.” Both are valid. Just know which one you want.

A lot of our Newport Beach clients run both at different times. Lifts in the summer when they are in the water every weekend. Extensions before a wedding or a big trip. There is no rule that says you have to pick one forever.

Can You Get a Lash Lift After Extensions?

Yes, but you have to wait. Your natural lashes need a break after wearing extensions, especially if you have worn them for a long stretch. We recommend a full cycle of 6 to 8 weeks between removing extensions and getting a lift. Your lashes need that time to recover their natural strength so the lift takes well and lasts the full 8 weeks.

If you are transitioning from extensions to lifts, come in for a proper extension removal first. Pulling extensions out at home is one of the top causes of natural lash loss we see in our chairs.

Ready to Book Your Lashes in Orange County?

Whether you land on a lift or extensions, the deciding factor is the tech holding the tweezers. Eye Candy Medspa has been serving Orange County since 2016 with licensed lash artists at our Buena Park, Lakewood, and Newport Beach locations. We will tell you straight up which service fits your lashes, your budget, and your lifestyle.

Book a consultation at the location closest to you and we will walk you through both options in person. No pressure, no upsell. Just the right service for your eyes.