In a recent post, I discussed allergies and how to create an exit plan for your client if you're unable to provide them with eyelash extensions. I received so many comments and questions regarding this subject, that I wanted to address a few more related issues...
Prescribing Treatment
Let me make this very simple... DON’T!! We are not medical professionals. We do not have the client's complete medical background, and folks, let's be real here... Oftentimes, our clients don't tell us everything!
Clients can, and will, tell us they have never had lashes applied - when in fact they have. I have found this to be the case when a client has a reaction. After they have filled out my release form, asking this very question, I proceed to lash them and two days later they are begging for lash removal. Upon further discussion, they reveal they have had lashes done elsewhere and thought the lash artist had “bad glue”. Seriously, I get a bit miffed when I hear this answer.
So, back to not prescribing! If a client can't be honest on an intake form, they may not be honest about their medical history. Let's not cross that line of prescribing, and cause more discomfort or damage.
My best suggestion is to have a consultation with a local, reputable eye doctor. Explain to them what your concerns are and the appropriate treatment that a client should have to treat the allergic reaction. Make sure to get the doctor's contact information to give to your clients who have concerns or to those that may require treatment. That keeps you within the legal boundaries, and allows you to be concerned and refer the client to a suitable medical professional.
Credibility
I recently downloaded some articles on reactions to lash glue. I have heard the “bad glue” story from too many clients who have been to other lash artists.
Can glue go bad? Yes, it can expire, lose its grip, and lose the retention we all are working toward. However, glue does not “go bad” and cause allergic reactions.
Do your homework and find some great articles on allergic reactions, print them out, and give them to your first time clients. If they are aware ahead of time, you can stop them from going to another lash artist and suffering a second, potentially more severe reaction.
We all love lashing, and making our clients happy, but let's keep their safety as our number one priority! Take a few minutes and let's get our wonderful clients educated! If you have any more questions that need answering on the topic of allergies, please leave your comments below and I will get back to you.
Maryann Matykowski
Maryann has an accomplished, 30+ year background in the beauty industry. As a cosmetologist she opened her first salon in ’83. She has specialized as an educator since 2006. Maryann knows what it takes to create successful salon businesses and is here to share her experience with you.
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