Eyelash Extensions: The Basics 

So you weren’t born with gorgeously lush lashes, or you can never get the falsies thing right no matter how hard you practice? Welcome to the club. A more permanent shortcut to amazing lashes, eyelash extensions have gained in popularity over the years. We are so excited to be welcoming you into this industry.

What is lash extensions? 

Eyelash extensions are used to enhance the length, curliness, fullness, and thickness of natural eyelashes. The extensions may be made from several materials including mink and synthetic mink. False eyelashes and eyelash extensions are not the same. Eyelash extensions are placed one by one individually to each of your natural lashes without touching your skin. Each eyelash extension is placed on the lash hair and shed naturally with your individual lash extension and grow back with your lash growth cycle.

Let's start with the basics. First off, some people mistakenly lump "fake lashes" and "eyelash extensions" together - they're not the same thing.

Fake lashes - aka, falsies - are either temporary strips of lashes or single clusters of lashes that you can apply at home with a temporary glue whenever you want to add extra oomph to your lash line.These don't require professional application and the main difference between fake lashes and eyelash extensions is that fake lashes are temporary. Lash extensions do not ruin your natural lashes. When wearing lash extensions, they will grow out and shed as they normal.  When applied improperly is when damaged can be caused. For an example, if someone is using large amounts of glue or application style.

How long does eyelash extensions last?

With proper care, eyelash extensions will last until the natural lashes shed as they normally would. Clients can maintain eyelashes indefinitely with regular fill appointments. 

Who is a good candidate for lash extensions?

Simply anyone is a good candidate for lash extensions. We recommend you do not service anyone under the age of 15. If the client is 15-17, they must be  accompanied by a parent or have a parents consent. Anyone who wears contacts or glasses is perfectly fine for lash extensions. If you have oily skin, it is still fine to get lash extensions. The upkeep for the lashes might be more frequently. 

How long do they take to be applied?

Initial appointments can take anywhere from 1.5-3 hours. Most clients return for shorter fills every 2-4 weeks. (3 weeks is most common)

Consultations 

Consultations are VERY IMPORTANT. Consultations should take 10-15 minutes for every new client. For returning clients it should only take 5-10 minutes in case they had questions or wanted to change the look they have already. 

Start by asking what the client is expecting out this lash appointment

Make sure they have signed their liability waiver

Discuss lifestyle, how much they exercise, skin type, desired look  

If the request is not realistic, be honest with the client. For example, if the client has sparse,short delicate natural lashes and the client wants them long and full, explain to her that it is not healthy or possible with the natural lashes she has. As long as you are honest with your clients, they will appreciate and stick with you. 

It is also important that you LISTEN to your clients wants, needs and concerns. If they want a natural set, do not give them anything more.