Caring for and maintaining lash extensions isn't just a matter of hygiene and health, it's also one of the key aspects for increasing retention. As professionals, we know this and pass it on to clients at every appointment, but we know these guidelines aren't always followed to the letter. So here we bring you the keys to caring for lash extensions.
We need to insist and explain in detail why each of our tips matters, because aftercare goes beyond the initial guideline of not getting the extensions wet for the first 24 hours after application.
That's why today we wanted to put together the 5 essential tips for caring for lash extensions at home and how we should explain each one to our clients.
Cleansing routine
The most important factor for lash extensions to last longer and stay in perfect condition is keeping them clean. What often happens is that clients think washing their face is enough to keep the extensions clean, so it's important to emphasise this point, since daily cleansing prevents bacteria build-up and removes any trace of dirt, oil, even dandruff, keeping the eyes and lashes healthy.
To clean lash extensions, you need to use a suitable cleansing product that's not oil- or alcohol-based, so it doesn't damage the lashes or affect the adhesive. As professionals, we can advise our client on the most suitable product.
The cleanser should be applied to all the lashes and gently rubbed with a specific brush.
#Tip: Since this step is part of the routine for fills or new sets at the salon, there's nothing better than reminding the client of this step and explaining how to do it while we're doing it ourselves.
As part of what we consider the cleansing routine, we should include daily brushing. Extensions can sometimes tangle or stick together, and brushing prevents this. Always give your client a mascara-style brush and remind them how important it is to gently brush the extensions once a day, preferably after cleansing.
#Tip: Check out this idea for how to give the client the aftercare flyer along with the brush. You'll see how original it is!
Don't rub your eyes
While this may seem obvious, it's important to stress that clients should avoid touching their eyes. On average, we touch our faces about 23 times an hour, and we often touch or even rub our eyes.
This isn't a good habit even without lash extensions, since it damages the natural lash and can cause it to fall out early — imagine how much more it can affect lash extensions.
Sleeping properly
As we mentioned in the previous point, you also shouldn't flatten the lashes, which is something we often do while sleeping. If the client sleeps with their lashes pressed against the pillow, they'll gradually become misshapen, and even with brushing, it's hard for them to return to their original shape. They may also spend hours in a position where the extension “pulls” on the natural lash, which can end up damaging it.
#Tip: It's best to sleep on your back or on your side, avoiding direct contact between the eye and the pillow. A good recommendation is using a special eye mask to protect the lashes, specifically designed with a space that avoids contact with the extensions, so they stay protected.
Make-up products
This is another major issue affecting extension retention. To start with, using an eyelash curler and mascara is entirely avoidable when wearing lash extensions.
As for make-up products, as a general rule, it's best to avoid “waterproof” products, since they aren't easily removed and often require oil-based make-up removers, which can affect the adhesive.
It's also best to avoid eyeliners that are very thick and soft, cream eyeshadows, eyelid primer and anything with an oil base. These products will excessively soil the extensions and are best kept for special occasions only.
#Tip: lash extensions already “dress up” the eye on their own, so recommend that clients reduce make-up in that area as much as possible.
Consistency with fills
To make the most of their lash extension set, clients need to be consistent with fills, and the best way to ensure this is to have them book their fill appointment right after finishing the service.
#Tip: Getting fills every 2-3 weeks helps keep the full set looking good for longer, saving clients money in the long run since fills are less expensive than full sets. If you explain it this way, they're sure to keep their appointment.
We hope this guide helps you communicate to your clients how important lash extension care is, which, although it may seem like a lot at first, is well worth it!
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If you'd like personalised advice on any of our products or on carrying out services, feel free to contact us:
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- Phone: (+34) 91 421 30 59
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- By email: info@seenaowell.com
