DIY Lash Extensions vs. Salon Lashes: The Real Cost & Benefit Breakdown

Are salon lash extensions worth the $200+ price tag? We break down the cost, time, and health benefits of switching to DIY Underlash extensions.

We all love the look of fresh lash extensions. There is nothing quite like waking up "ready" without needing mascara or makeup. But let’s be honest—maintaining that salon look is a serious commitment.

Between the scheduling gymnastics, the two-hour appointments, and the monthly hit to your bank account, the "luxury" of salon lashes can quickly start to feel like a burden.

If you’ve been on the fence about switching to DIY lash extensions, you probably have questions. Do they look as good? Do they last? And are they actually cheaper?

In this post, we’re breaking down the real differences between traditional salon extensions and the Underlash Starter Kit to help you decide which is better for your lifestyle (and your wallet).

The Cost: $240 vs. $14?

Let’s talk numbers, because this is usually the biggest shock for our customers.

The Salon Cost:

 In Australia, a quality full set of salon volume lashes typically ranges between $160 and $240 (and sometimes even more for master technicians). That’s not a one-off cost, either. To keep them looking full, you’re back in that chair every 2-3 weeks for refills, costing you thousands of dollars a year.

The Underlash Cost:

We believe beautiful lashes shouldn't require a personal loan. Here is the math on switching to DIY:

• The Investment: Our Starter Kit is $170 upfront. This includes your bond, seal, applicator, remover, and enough lashes for at least 4 full sets. That breaks down to just $42.50 per wear.

• The Maintenance: Once you have your tools, it gets even better. You simply grab refill lash packets ($28). Two packets generally get you 4 sets of lashes.

• The Result: Your ongoing cost drops to roughly $14 per set.

The Verdict: You could pay $200+ for one salon visit, or $14 for the same look at home. The math speaks for itself.

The Time: 2 Hours vs. 10 Minutes

Time is our most valuable currency. A standard salon appointment takes anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours. Add in travel time, parking, and waiting, and you’ve lost half your day.

Underlash is designed for the busy woman—whether you’re a mum with toddlers running around or a CEO with a packed schedule.

• Application time: 10 minutes.

• Location: Your bathroom, your couch, or even at your desk.

You get the same fluffy, salon-quality look, but you get your Saturday back.

Lash Health & Damage

Have you ever had your salon extensions removed only to find your natural lashes looking short, brittle, or sparse?

Salon extensions often use cyanoacrylate-based glues.

These adhere very strongly to the natural lash, which is great for retention but can be heavy and dehydrating, leading to breakage or "traction alopecia" (where the weight pulls the natural lash out prematurely).

The DIY Difference:

 Our system uses a gentle Bond & Seal technique.

• No harsh fumes: Our bond is designed for sensitive eyes.

• Lightweight: The lashes are applied under your natural lashes, blending seamlessly without weighing them down.

• Damage-free removal: Because the bond is flexible, our remover gently dissolves it, allowing the lashes to slide off without taking your natural lashes with them.

The "Awkward Gap" Phase

We’ve all been there. It’s week 3 of your salon lashes. You’ve lost a few chunks on your left eye, your right eye looks twisting, and you can’t get an appointment for another four days. You’re stuck looking... patchy.

With DIY lashes, you are in complete control. If a segment comes loose on a Tuesday night? You can fix it in 30 seconds. You never have to walk around with the "awkward gap" waiting for a tech to fit you in. You look fresh 24/7.

Conclusion: Is It Time to Make the Switch?

If you love the convenience of waking up with lashes but hate the cost, time, and potential damage of salon visits, it’s time to try Underlash.

You get the professional look you love, but on your terms.

Ready to start?

 We recommend the Starter Kit for beginners. It has everything you need to master the application in minutes and save thousands of dollars this year.