We’d like to start by saying that as long as you’re providing your clients with a lash set that meets their expectations and lasts in between sessions, it’s unlikely they will mind whether you use premade or handmade fans. The decision comes down to what you feel best fits your skills and style as a lash artist. There are clear differences between premade and handmade lash fans, so we’ll go through some now and help you decide.
Fans are only relevant for volume lashes, not classic lashes, so they’re for the more dramatic complex lash creations. With volume lashes, fans of up to 16 extensions are attached to one natural lash to create dramatic thickness and lift. You can either learn how to create this fan of extensions yourself, hand-made, or buy pre-made fans that have already been joined together by heat or a small amount of lash adhesive. That’s the practical difference between the options.
Application Differences
Creating your own fans during the appointment gives you full control. If one of your client’s lashes is thin, for example, you could place fewer extensions on that lash and compensate for the difference on a thicker lash to restore balance in the look. You could also adjust the length in certain areas to create a graded or tapered look. You have less control with premade fans, but lash artists who use them will purchase options for the number of extensions per fan, length, and curl, so assuming you have them accessible at each appointment, you would still manage customisation. By using two or three different volume sets, you can create dimension and the same dramatic look as handmade.
With premade fans, the application process is the same as classic lashes that we’re all used to. Pick up the fan, apply your chosen glue, and apply it to the client’s natural lash. Handmade fans can also be applied this way once made, or you can choose the wraparound application method. Instead of keeping the extensions flat, this method puts the natural lash within the fan. This application method provides improved retention and is popular among clients. The wraparound method isn’t possible with premade fans, but those with slim bases provide a clean, flat application, so retention times are still good. Encouraging good aftercare with your clients will prevent a buildup of oils on the natural lashes and extensions that can cause early loosening.
Is There an Application Time Difference Between Premade Fans and Handmade Fans?
The short answer is yes. Learning to make fans is a large time commitment initially, as there are a lot of steps, so you may need to take time off work to attend an in-person course. Your appointment times will be longer with handmade fans, too, because you’re making the fan and applying, typically around 2.5 to 3 hours instead of 1.5 to 2 hours with premade. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but you will be excluding some customers if you only offer handmade fans. People with chronic pain may not be able to lie on your lash bed for that long, and those with busy work schedules or children are less likely to be able to find that time, even if it results in great lashes. Ultimately, as a lash artist, time is money, so if you value number of appointments, stick with premade fans. If you’re more focused on the end result and spreading your business through word of mouth, learning to make handmade fans could benefit you. Using premade fans while you learn or for those who can’t spare the time will ensure you’re not losing any clients.
At Lavilash, we offer our high-quality volume lashes in premade fan trays that are great value. We prefer premade fans because they save you time while still looking great; however, offering both would always be a boost to your lash business. Shop our premade range here.