A Step-by-Step Guide to Lash Lifts

This comprehensive guide covers everything from preparing your client for a lash lift to executing the finishing touches to advising your client on the proper aftercare routine. Whether you're a veteran lash technician or brand-new to the industry, it's always beneficial to review the best practices around using professional lash lift products if you want to continue to achieve stunning results. 

Prepare for the Lash Lift

Before performing a lash lift, it is essential to have an initial consultation with your client. 

Assess the Lashes

A consultation allows you to assess your client's natural lashes. Consider their length, thickness, and overall health. This will help you determine the appropriate lift and curl level. Also, ask your client about allergies, sensitivities, or previous lash treatments. Finally, perform a patch test with your lash lift supplies to ensure their comfort during the procedure.

Discuss Expectations & Aftercare

The consultation is also an opportunity to educate your client about the lash lift process, its limitations, and the expected results. Make it clear to the client what the post-treatment aftercare will entail so they can be prepared.

Clean the Lashes

Use a gentle eye makeup remover or micellar water to remove any mascara, eyeliner, or eyeshadow from the client's lashes. Use only oil-free products, as oil can interfere with the lash lift solution. Gently massage the cleanser onto the lashes, making sure to reach the base as well. Rinse the eye area with lukewarm water and pat it dry with a clean towel or lint-free cloth.

Apply Primer (Optional)

If you choose to, you can apply a primer to your client's lashes using a disposable mascara wand or a microfiber brush. Coat all the upper lashes evenly, starting from the base of the lashes and moving toward the tips. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step. 

Mark the Lash Growth Direction

To help you achieve a natural-looking lash lift, mark the direction of the client's lash growth. Ask the client to close their eyes. Using a fine-tipped marker or a white eyeliner pencil, gently mark the direction of lash growth on the client's eyelids. This will serve as a guide when you're placing the shields or rods in the next step.

Apply Shields or Rods

Select the appropriate size of lash lift shields or rods based on your client's desired lift and lash length. Apply a small amount of lash adhesive onto the back of the shield or rod and carefully place it onto the client's eyelid, aligning it with the marked lash growth direction. Position the shield or rod close to the lash line but not touching the client's waterline. Repeat the process for the other eye. 

Apply the Lifting Solution

Apply the lifting solution to your client's lashes using a clean and disposable applicator. Start from the inner corner of the eye and work outward, coating each lash from the root to ¾ of the way up the lash. Be cautious not to apply the solution to the lash tips, which can cause over-processing. Don't get any lifting formula on your client's skin, as it may cause irritation or discomfort. Let it process for the time stated in the product's instructions. 

Apply the Neutralizer

Once the lifting solution has been processed, apply the neutralizing formula to stop the lifting process. Allow it to remain on the client's lashes for the product manufacturer's recommended time, then eradicate it.

Tint or Dye the Lashes

This optional step can add depth and definition to your client's lifted lashes. To perform a lash tint, place a protective pad or under-eye gel patch beneath the lower lashes to prevent the tint or dye from staining the skin. Then, carefully apply the tint or dye to the lifted lashes, starting from the base. After the recommended time, carefully remove the tint using a cotton pad. 

Apply a Moisturizer

Once the lifting and tinting processes are complete, it's time to apply a moisturizing serum to keep the lashes hydrated and nourished. Using a clean and disposable microfiber brush or a lash comb, gently comb the product through the lashes to distribute the formula and separate them from the shield or rod. 

Remove the Shields or Rods

After loosening the lashes, gently peel off the shields or carefully slide out the rods from the lashes. Be cautious and ensure the lashes do not stick to the shields or rods when removing them. If any lashes are still stuck, use a swab with a moisturizing serum to gently separate them.

Prescribe an Aftercare Routine

Proper aftercare will help your client maintain the longevity and health of their newly lifted lashes. Make it clear to them that they should stick to the following rules for the first 24 to 48 hours after their lash lift:

• Avoid getting the lashes wet. Water can interfere with the setting process and cause the lift to lose effectiveness. Be cautious when washing your face and prevent water from contacting the lashes.
• Avoid rubbing or touching the lashes. To prevent prematurely relaxing the lifted shape of the lashes, be mindful when applying skincare products or removing makeup around the eye area. Use gentle patting motions instead of rubbing or pulling on the lashes.
• Avoid heat and steam. This can cause the lifted lashes to lose their shape. Avoid exposure to excessive heat sources such as hairdryers, hot showers, and direct steam.
• Use oil-free products. Oil-based products can weaken the adhesive involved in the lash lift process, causing the lift to deteriorate more quickly. Opt for oil-free makeup removers, cleansers, and moisturizers. This will help prevent any potential damage.
• Be gentle when applying mascara. Avoid using waterproof mascara, which can be challenging to remove and may require rubbing or tugging on the lashes. Instead, apply a gentle, non-waterproof mascara with a light hand, focusing on the tips of the lashes.

Schedule Regular Lash Lift Maintenance

A lash lift typically lasts for 6 to 8 weeks, depending on your client's lash growth cycles. To maintain the lifted look, encourage your clients to schedule regular maintenance appointments with you.

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