Welcome back to From The Manual our complete series on the application of Classic eyelash extensions. In this blog post, I’m covering best practices for working with clients.
Client Saftey in Eyelash Application
Client consultation, care, and aftercare can make or break a successful eyelash extension business. Client safety should be your priority at all times. I’m always careful to follow these rules of engagement:
Any item that touches a customer must be disinfected before use.
Clean tools of all glue residue with acetone or glue remover.
Prep your instruments and sanitize them before each client (use barbicide, autoclave, or glass bead sterilizers).
Sanitize tables, handles, magnifier lamps, door knobs, sink handles, and dispensers between clients.
Note: Antibacterial solutions such as Purel are not sufficient for sterilization.
Never take your eyes off your client while you are using any tools or equipment near their eyes or face. Equipment should be set up in a safe area where there is no danger of falling or harming you or the client.
Have your client arrive with no eye makeup or any moisturizer around the eyes. If they have either on then it is your responsibility to clean the eyes and eye area. Contact lenses, glasses, and makeup must be removed prior to beginning the service.
A Comfortable Environment
Provide a comfortable padded table or facial chair. Check with your client to see if they need a bathroom or stretching break. Be sure they are comfortable! Offer a lash pillow or neck support, such as a rolled towel for extra support. Offer to raise the knees with a pillow or adjust the table to relieve pressure on the lower back. After the service is complete, have them sit up slowly.
Consulting with Prospective Clients
Not everyone is a good candidate for eyelash extensions, such as clients with seasonal allergies and itchy, watery eyes. Constant tearing and rubbing the lashes will shorten their retention.
Screening Consultation
Other conditions you should screen clients for include:
Severe allergies
Asthma
Sensitivity to cyanoacrylate and acrylate products
Excessive tearing
Alopecia
Cancer treatment
Glaucoma
Thyroid medication
Conjunctivitis
Blepharitis
Trichotillomania
Lasik surgery
Corneal abrasions
Screening carefully will help you avoid but not entirely eliminate the possibility of your client having an allergic reaction. I recommend using Glad Lash's client consultation form, available in print and downloadable versions. Educate and answer questions prior to the procedure. Explain everything you will be doing so they will know what to expect before, during, and after eyelash application.
If you’re unsure whether your potential customer is a good candidate, have them come in 2 days before their application appointment for a consultation and application test. Apply two extensions on each eye. Then, wait for any reactions or sensitivities that might occur before their application appointment.
Other safety precautions include the discontinuation of Retin A, Accutane, or any acne medications two months prior to receiving eyelash extensions. Pregnant women should consult with their physician before having eyelash extensions applied.
Styling Consultation
A styling consultation between the customer and technician should always take place before any actual application. Use the client's natural lashes and eye shape as a guide.
For clients who are unsure of the look they want, suggest adding another 30-50% to their natural lash length. Applying a B or C curl is a good starting point for a natural look. Use a variety of extension lengths and curls to match the varying lengths and curls of natural lashes. Check out the first part of this series for more information on lash lengths, curls, and thicknesses.
We cover the three most classic styles—natural, dramatic, and cat-eye—and how to achieve them in our professional Classic Eyelash Extension Training and Certification Program.
The Glad Lash training for eyelash extensions is for anyone that wants in-depth lash training with accredited and vetted lash professionals.
More Lash Learning Ahead
So far, I’ve just scratched the surface of eyelash extension trends, tools, and client best practices. We cover them way more in-depth in our training and in the manual! I’ll be back for Part 3 of this very special Classic Application Series, where I’ll be covering technician ergonomics and workstation setup. Don’t miss it, because that blog post is all about YOU!
