As a professional eyelash artist, you are skilled at selecting the right type of lash extensions for your clients, and you base this on their eye shape, their natural lashes and the type of look they are after. You make sure to only order and use the best quality lashes and equipment so that you won't give your clients any allergies or irritations with cheap adhesives or poor-quality lashes. However, when you have finished applying beautiful lash extensions and your client is happy and satisfied, do you remember to give them the essential advice on how to take care of their lash extensions to maintain their longevity and prevent any damage to their natural lashes? The aftercare of lashes is crucial to the upkeep of glamorous lashes and to the satisfaction of your client, and with proper aftercare, they can wear stunningly beautiful lash extensions for several weeks.
Basic Advice Tips for the Longevity of Lash Extensions
Always advise your clients to avoid exposing their lash extensions to water or steam for the first 24-48 hours after application, as they can weaken the adhesive bond and cause the extensions to fall out prematurely. Whilst this may seem obvious to you, it may not occur to someone who is having extensions for the first time. Oil-based products can also break down the adhesive bond and cause the lashes to fall out, so advise using oil-free products. They should also avoid items like cotton pads that can leave lint on their lashes.
Remind your client that their lash extensions need to be handled gently. Any harsh make-up removers or aggressive wiping, pulling or picking at their natural or their extension lashes is a no-no. If an extension feels like it has become unattached, your client should schedule a touch-up appointment rather than tugging at the lash and possibly damaging their natural lashes.
How And When to Clean Lash Extensions
As long as you give your client the right advice on aftercare for their lash extensions, they should feel confident enough to clean them correctly and not be intimidated by the delicacy of their extensions.
- Always remove any makeup around the eyes first using an oil-free makeup remover or facial cleanser, and take care not to rub the lashes.
- Only use a dedicated lash cleanser to clean the lashes; other products contain harsh chemicals or oils, which can break down the adhesive and lead to losing lashes early, so take the time to explain this to your client. Apply a small amount of lash cleanser to fingers or a cleansing brush and gently rub the cleanser over the lashes, working from the lash line downwards, with either a brush or fingers, being gentle and aware not to pull or tug lashes.
- Once the eye has been thoroughly cleansed, rinse well with lukewarm water by gently splashing the eye to remove any cleanser residue, then repeat the process on the other eye. Gently pat around both eyes dry with a lint-free paper towel or ultra-soft cloth and let the lashes air-dry.
- Use a spoolie brush (basically like a mascara wand without the mascara) to gently separate and reshape the lashes, starting at the roots and working down to the tips.
- Lashes should be cleaned daily and become part of any face cleansing ritual in order to keep lash extensions looking their best and remaining clean and healthy. Not cleaning lashes can lead to a build-up of grease and dirt that can weaken the adhesive and cause lashes to tangle more easily, so keep your clients happy and give them good cleaning advice!
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