I have several clients who seem to have anxiety issues. It can be difficult to lash these amazing people. Let’s talk about how we can handle these delicate situations with tact, kindness, and finesse.
An Anxious Client
My first encounter with an anxiety-laden client was a few years ago. She was so excited to get her lashes done. She was “over the moon” happy. We did a consultation, we talked about after care, we went through the whole process. Everything was great until I had to apply the gel pads.
My client broke out in a sweat, she started to feel lightheaded and woozy. Her heart was racing and she was breathing heavily. I thought she was going to pass out on me, for sure. I wanted to stop the service right there and then. My client was willing to try and push through so we gave it a go.
Trial and Error
Together, we created a strategy, through trial and error, that worked for her. We tried a few deep breathing exercises, sipping cold water, and relaxation music. We finally figured out the secret trick to her fears was holding a freezing cold bottle of water. It worked to calm her down, immediately. She became more focused on how to actually keep holding a frozen bottle of water than the actual lashing process.
It sounds crazy, but whenever we lash her she brings her own frozen bottle of water to hold. I have passed this tip on to other clients who exhibited symptoms of anxiety, and they all agreed that this is enough of a diversion for them to get into the relaxation zone.
Other Anxiety Reducing Techniques
So many of our clients are on the go, they forget how to wind down for a service that requires them to disconnect from the world for just a little while. Here are a few more techniques I have found that help clients to switch off and find a more relaxing place within:
lowering the overhead lighting
playing soft relaxing background music
keeping blankets, extra pillows and hand warmers in store for days when my clients need a bit more pampering
If your client has trouble with blinking too much, try out Sarah Moore's hot tip on grounding. It's another great remedy for calming and soothing your client.
What are your tricks for anxiety? We would love to hear from you. Please share them with us in the comments section below.
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.
