A Korean lash lift kit is the set of products you need to perform a Korean-style lash lift: a Step 1 softening lotion, a Step 2 setting lotion, a balm or lash lift powder to hold the lashes in place of glue, soft silicone rods, a precise brush and a pH or aftercare treatment. If you searched for “Korean lash lift set” or “Early lift”, here is the short answer: you can buy these pieces as a ready system or build your own kit, and the Early range from Korea covers every step.
Below: what makes a lift “Korean”, what belongs in a kit, and how to build and use one with Early. Times and details come from the Early and Noemi product information; always follow the instructions supplied with each product.
What is a Korean lash lift?
A Korean lash lift is a lash perm technique, not a single product. The chemistry is the same as in any lash lift: a first lotion softens the bonds in the hair, the lashes take the shape of the rod, and a second lotion sets the new shape.
What usually changes is the placement. In a classic lift, lashes are often glued onto a rounder shield. In the Korean technique, artists as a rule use thinner, softer rods set close to the lash line and separate the lashes almost one by one, for a vertical, open-eye “fan” effect.
The other difference is the fixer: instead of a glue that sets hard, Korean lifts typically use a balm, a powder or a thick lotion, which leaves time to adjust each lash.
For a deeper look at the chemistry, see our article on cysteamine vs thioglycolate lash lift lotions.
What goes into a complete Korean lash lift kit?
Whatever brand you choose, a working kit needs the same building blocks:
- Step 1 softening lotion: softens the hair bonds.
- Step 2 setting lotion: re-links the bonds and locks the new shape in.
- A fixer: a lash lift balm or a lash lift powder that holds the lashes on the rod without a hard glue layer.
- Rods in several curls and sizes: to match lash length and eye shape.
- A precise brush or lash tool: to tension and separate the lashes.
- A pH or aftercare treatment: to rebalance and nourish the lashes after the chemical steps.
Building the kit with Early (Early Lift)
Early is a Korean lash lift brand, and many artists simply call its system “Early Lift”. Here is how each part of the kit maps to an Early product.
Step 1: Early Softening Lotion
The Early Step 1 Softening Lotion is the first chemical step. It contains thioglycolate (TGA) and cysteamine to soften the lash bonds and has a neutral pH of 7.5, which Early compares with the pH of human tears. Keratin, collagen and 11 botanical extracts protect the lashes, and the firm cream in an airless pump stays where you place it.
Step 2: Early Lift Setting Lotion
The Early Lift Step 2 Setting Lotion fixes the curl. It uses sodium bromate to re-link the hair bonds and, according to Early, locks in a lift that lasts 6–8 weeks. Hyaluronic acid, ceramide NP, keratin and collagen condition the lashes, and the blue tint keeps it visible. Both lotions also come together as the Early Professional Pump Duo, in airless pumps that help avoid waste and oxidation.
The fixer: Early Balm Pro
Early Balm Pro replaces traditional lash lift glue. It is a 15ml non-drying balm with a strong “Mochi-Grip” tack that stays flexible while you work. You can make micro-adjustments with a lash tool or Y-comb at any time during the wrapping phase, and it washes away with water at the end of the service. We cover it in detail in our Early Balm Pro guide.
Aftercare: Early pH Multipack Balance
The Early pH Multipack Balance (20ml) is the “clinic” step. Lash lift lotions leave the hair in an alkaline, vulnerable state; the Multipack works at pH 4.5–5.5 to close the cuticle and adds panthenol, hydrolyzed keratin, peptides and sodium hyaluronate. It can be used between the two lotions or as the final finishing step (times in the procedure below).
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Early – Balm Pro CHF 22.90
The next-generation “Lash Lift Balm” from Early Korea, made for artists who will not compromise between hold and lash health. Unlike traditional lash glues that dry too fast, the balm texture stays workable while you place the lashes, giving a secure hold that is kinder to the natural lash. A true kit essential. 15ml.
4 in stock
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Early – PH Multipack Balance (20ml) CHF 32.90
The essential aftercare step for lash lifts and lamination. Lash lift lotions create the curl by breaking hair bonds, which leaves the lashes chemically unbalanced; this professional treatment restores, nourishes and repairs them immediately afterwards, rebalancing pH so the lift lasts and the lashes stay healthy. 20ml multipack.
3 in stock
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Early – Professional Pump Duo CHF 35.90
The Early Lift two-step system, now in premium airless pump bottles that stop product waste and prevent oxidation for full potency every time. Step 1 softens the hair bonds with a client-safe neutral pH cream enriched with 11 botanical extracts and keratin; Step 2 sets the new curl. Precise, hygienic and non-drip – built for professional Korean lash lift results.
4 in stock
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Early – Step 1 – Softening Lotion (New Pump Packaging) CHF 18.90
The critical first step of a Korean-style lash lift, redesigned in an airless pump bottle for exact dosing, better hygiene and no waste. This professional-grade softening lotion opens the hair bonds evenly so the curl takes cleanly, with a firm non-drip texture that stays where you place it. Pairs with Early Step 2 Setting Lotion.
12 in stock
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Early Lift – Step 2 – Setting Lotion (New Pump Packaging) CHF 18.90
The fixing step that sets the lash curl permanently while delivering a deep conditioning treatment. Upgraded to an airless pump that protects the formula from oxidation, so it applies precisely and without waste. Follows Early Step 1 Softening Lotion for a clean, long-lasting Korean lash lift.
13 in stock
Choosing rods and tools for the kit
Rods decide the shape of the lift. Early offers several:
- Dumpling Rods (I-curl): “mochi-soft”, stretchy silicone with a mini teardrop tip that gets very close to the lash line. The vertical I-curl is designed for maximum height and suits short or downward-pointing lashes. 2 pairs per box.
- Mandu Softening Rod: ultra-flexible clear silicone that hugs the lid and gives a gentle, rounded lift instead of a harsh angle. 1 pair per box.
- Boong Boongi / Car Rod (CU-curl): a winged, car-shaped pink rod with a U-curl lift at the root and a C-curl sweep at the tips. 5 pairs (S, M, M1, M2, L). Early advises choosing a size where the lashes reach 70–80% of the way up the rod.
- Slime Lash Lift Rods (CI-curl): ultra-soft “slime” silicone that grips the lid with minimal glue. The CI-curl combines I-curl height with C-curl roundness. 4 pairs (S, M, L, LL).
For the brush, the Early King Brush has a 1.2 cm flat edge that tensions a wide section of lashes in one stroke and places balms and creams precisely at the base.
Not sure which curl to start with? Our lash lift rods guide compares curl shapes and sizes in detail.
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Early – Boong Boongi / Car Rod CHF 35.90
Silicone lash lift shields designed by lash artists for lash artists. The iconic winged “car-shaped” design and signature soft pink silicone give a level of stability and curvature that standard shields cannot match, for a precise, high-impact CU-curl lift every time.
11 in stock
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Early – Dumpling Rods CHF 22.90
The authentic Dumpling Rod by Early Korea, in the I-curl edition built for a sharp, high-impact lift that shows off every millimetre of natural lash length. The signature “Mochi-Soft” silicone texture sits comfortably and grips precisely – a set for technicians who want maximum lift definition. 2 pairs.
7 in stock
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Early – King Brush CHF 15.90
A specialist brush built for the high-precision Korean Lash Lift. The professional-standard 1.2cm edge lets you tension a wide section of lashes against the shield and separate them cleanly, creating the signature fanned-out K-beauty look. The tool lash artists reach for when placement has to be exact.
9 in stock
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Early – Mandu Softening Rod CHF 16.90
Early Korea’s “marshmallow” innovation: the Mandu Softening Rods, named after the soft, plump shape of a traditional dumpling. Made from ultra-flexible medical-grade silicone, they sit comfortably against the lid and give a soft, natural lift that technicians reach for when they want precision without stiffness.
5 in stock
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Early – Slime Lash Lift Rods – CI Curl (Set of 4 Sizes) CHF 31.90
The viral Korean “slime” rods, famous for an ultra-soft texture that grips the eyelid with minimal glue. The CI curl is a hybrid – the vertical height of an I-curl with the soft roundness of a C-curl – for a wide-eyed, longer-lash effect. Professional-grade silicone in four sizes (S, M, L, LL) to fit every eye.
11 in stock
Kit overview: component, Early product, what it does
| Kit component | Early product | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 lotion | Step 1 Softening Lotion | Softens the lash bonds (TGA + cysteamine, pH 7.5) |
| Step 2 lotion | Early Lift Step 2 Setting Lotion | Sets the curl with sodium bromate and conditions |
| Both lotions | Professional Pump Duo | Step 1 and Step 2 together in airless pumps |
| Fixer | Balm Pro (15ml) | Holds lashes on the rod, stays flexible, washes off with water |
| pH and aftercare | pH Multipack Balance (20ml) | Rebalances pH (4.5–5.5), nourishes and repairs |
| Rod, high lift | Dumpling Rods | Vertical I-curl for maximum height |
| Rod, soft lift | Mandu Softening Rod | Gentle, rounded, natural curve |
| Rod, hybrid lift | Boong Boongi / Car Rod | CU-curl: lifted root, soft tips |
| Rod, open-eye lift | Slime Rods CI Curl | CI-curl: height plus roundness |
| Brush | King Brush | 1.2 cm edge for tension, separation and product placement |
How to use a Korean lash lift kit: step by step
The following procedure uses the Early system and the times given in the Early product information. Adapt it to your training and always follow the instructions supplied with each product.
- Consult and patch test. Ask about sensitivities and carry out a patch test before the chemical service.
- Cleanse the lashes. Clean, dry lashes, free of makeup and oil.
- Choose the rod. Pick the curl and size for the result you want. With the Boong Boongi rod, the lashes should reach 70–80% of the way up.
- Place the rod. Set it as close to the lash line as possible. Soft Early rods grip the lid by themselves, so you need very little adhesive on the rod.
- Apply Balm Pro and wrap. Apply the balm, then lift the lashes onto the rod section by section with the King Brush or a lash tool. Separate and straighten every lash; the balm lets you correct as you go.
- Apply Step 1. Dispense the Softening Lotion with the pump and apply it evenly to the lashes on the rod, keeping it towards the base rather than the delicate tips. Leave it on for 6–8 minutes depending on lash thickness, plus 2–5 minutes if further softening is needed.
- Remove Step 1. Wipe it off carefully with a clean applicator or a dry cotton swab.
- Optional clinic step. Apply a small amount of pH Multipack Balance, let it process for 1–2 minutes, then wipe clean.
- Apply Step 2. Check the lash position, then apply the Setting Lotion evenly, matching the placement of Step 1. Leave it on for 5–7 minutes depending on lash thickness, then wipe it off thoroughly with a clean, dry applicator.
- Finish with pH Multipack. Apply the Multipack and let it process for 5–10 minutes, then gently wipe away any excess.
- Release and style. Remove the balm with water, lift the rods away gently and brush the lashes into shape.
As a rule, ask clients to treat their lashes gently afterwards and to avoid water, steam and oily products for the period recommended in the product instructions.
Alternatives: lash lift powder and glue-free lotions
Korean lash lift powder: Noemi Gooey
If you searched for “Korean lash lift powder”, this is the product type you mean. Noemi Gooey is a 5g lash lift powder that takes the place of glue or balm when attaching the lashes to the pad. It works with lash lift lotions in general and is designed for the cysteamine-based Noemi Step 1: sleek, defined lashes, a natural curl and no adhesive residue.
Glue-free lotions: Noemi Freelift
The Noemi Freelift Set (Step 1 and Step 2) goes one step further: no glue, no powder and no balm. Its thick cysteamine and TGA formula makes the lashes adhere to the pad on application, and it works for classic lash lifting, brow lifting and the Korean technique. Processing time is 6–11 minutes for Step 1 and 6–8 minutes for Step 2. Read the full Noemi Freelift instructions for details.
Glue-free rods: Mestay
The Mestay Berry Rod (C-curl, 4 pairs) and the Mango Rod (LC-curl, 5 pairs) are made of soft silicone that adheres to the skin without glue. Both are tint-resistant and compatible with traditional and Korean lash lift techniques.
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Mestay Berry Rod – C Curl Lash Lift Rod CHF 35.90
A professional lash lift rod for a soft, voluminous C curl. The rounded curve gives a natural everyday lift, and the ultra-soft silicone is loved for its perfect eye fit and no-glue-needed application. Box of 4 pairs (8 rods total).
13 in stock
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Mestay Mango Rod – LC Curl Lash Lift Rod CHF 39.90
A lash lift rod built for drama. The innovative LC curl combines a rounded root with a lifted, sharp curl at the tips, creating a bold, defined result that really opens and accentuates the eye. For clients who want a statement lift. Box of 5 pairs (10 rods total).
8 in stock
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Noemi – Freelift Set – Step 1 & 2 Original price was: CHF 50.90.CHF 43.25Current price is: CHF 43.25.
The complete Freelift system – the world’s first glue-free lash and brow lift, needing no glue, powder or balm. It pairs the Step 1 lifting lotion with the Step 2 fixing lotion, both based on cysteamine and TGA, and works for classic lash lifting, brow lifting and the Korean lash lift technique.
7 in stock
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Noemi Gooey (Lash Lift Powder) 5Gr Original price was: CHF 17.90.CHF 15.20Current price is: CHF 15.20.
Gooey replaces lash lift glue with a powder, making application faster and cleaner. Combined with the cysteamine-based Step 1 lotion it produces sleek, well-defined lashes with a natural curl that holds all day. Compatible with lash lifting lotions generally, and formulated specifically around the Noemi cysteamine system. 5g.
2 in stock
FAQ: Korean lash lift kits
What is the difference between a Korean and a classic lash lift?
The chemistry is similar. The Korean technique usually uses thinner, softer rods, a balm or powder instead of glue and lash-by-lash separation; a classic lift often uses rounder shields and glue.
Do I need glue for a Korean lash lift?
Usually not. Early Balm Pro, Noemi Gooey powder or the glue-free Noemi Freelift lotions hold the lashes instead, and soft rods such as Early Slime or Mestay grip the lid with little or no adhesive.
What is “Early Lift”?
Early Lift is the common name for the Korean Early lash lift system: Step 1 Softening Lotion and Step 2 Setting Lotion, also available together as the Professional Pump Duo, plus Balm Pro, pH Multipack Balance, rods and the King Brush.
How long does a Korean lash lift last?
Early states that its Step 2 Setting Lotion locks in a lift that lasts 6–8 weeks; results depend on the lash growth cycle and aftercare.
