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It's no question that Lash artists are always on their toes, ready to help with any client request.
But have you ever experienced receiving messages from them asking for advice about their lashes?
They started telling you that all their lashes are falling off and badly need your help...
Well, that's tough!
Lash retention problems are probably the last thing we want to hear from them.
In fact, that's almost a nightmare for most lash artists.
Especially if we are clueless why it happened...
Imagine dealing with difficult questions from your clients like...
"Why are my lashes not lasting?"
"How to make eyelash extensions last longer?"
"How long do lash extensions last?"
Look, we get it. It's exhausting!
Every lash artist can understand this struggle.
Perhaps you can relate and you're probably having a hard time figuring out why so that you can avoid these instances from happening going forward.
Or maybe you are blaming yourself thinking if it was because of how you applied it
Or maybe it's something else…
Well, regardless of what the root cause is. We're here to help.
The truth is…
There are lash retention tips that you can follow about how to make eyelash extensions last longer.
That is why in this blog post, we've compiled a list of top five lash retention issues..
And we’ve got some tips on how to rectify them.
Let's dive in!
The first one is...
Not Knowing How Your Glue Works
It is one of the most common issues about eyelash extensions retention.
It can be hard to help your client regarding their lash retention problems if you're clueless about how the glue works.
In relation to that, it is also important that you understand your adhesive because a lot of people don't, and it is an issue.
You see, each adhesive has specific instructions on how to use it and achieve the best results.
It means if you're unaware of your adhesive, it will never work for you.
So you need to make sure you are well versed on how your glue works to understand how quickly or slowly you need to work with it.
Now, here's a lash retention hot tip for you...
You know when everything is right when that glue magnifies to that lash, and it's like bloody magic.
It's heart fluttering if you ask me because it is doing precisely what it is doing.
That is when you know that things are working for you and your adhesive friend.
The next part of the glue I want to talk about is freshness.
Listen...
If the glue isn't fresh, you'll most likely struggle with lash retention.
Every time you open the bottles, moisture will slowly start creeping into each bottle.
Ensure you are swapping your glue dot every 10 to 15 minutes, fresh glue will save you!
The best practice to ensure the lash glue is fresh is to change it every 3weeks.
The best practice to ensure the lash glue is fresh is to change it every 3weeks.
The next thing I want to go through is this...
Base Not Properly Attached (Attachment Issue)
If your client keeps asking you how to make eyelash extensions last longer...
Then this is one of the most important things you need to check.
Yep, the good old attachment check if the base is attached correctly.
You see, the amount of lifted bases we see is insane. And everyone's like, "No, it's not my attachment.."
They didn't realise they were lifting until they zoomed in using a camera.
One lash retention tip is to ensure it is attached at least 2-3 mm, which will secure those lashes and ensure they are on really well for the next three weeks.
You must have that attachment. So zoom those lashes and see if they are attached firmly at the base 2-3 mm.
Also, if you are using too much adhesive, it might just be slightly too much that takes too long to dry.
As a result, you will get a weak polymerisation, and it's going to be quite brittle.
Plus, there won't be this beautiful, strong bond that we are looking for.
When using your adhesive, you need to ensure that you've got enough that it magnetises.
The goal is that if you magnetise it, you get the right amount of glue.
Eyelash extensions retention tip: If you want those lashes to stand out, don't be afraid of attachment from different angles.
Natural Lashes Are Not Clean Before Application
One of the lash retention tips that we always preach is to ensure the natural lashes are clean before application.
If there's any dirt, oil, or makeup on them, it will act as a barrier and prevent the adhesive from working correctly.
Which is why we recommend cleaning them with an eyelash extension remover before application.
Your clients will be able to see their beautiful lashes for more extended periods if you ensure their lashes are clean and not covered with makeup or debris before application.
Next up...
Clients Not Following Aftercare Instructions
Lets' face it...
Sometimes it's not really you.
But it doesn't matter who's at fault when things go wrong.
We must make our clients follow aftercare instructions to achieve optimal lash retention... (even if it isn't you)
Explain it well to them that if they don't protect their lashes, they risk the extensions falling off prematurely.
As lash artists, it's our responsibility to provide our clients with the proper aftercare tips.
If clients religiously follow these instructions, they can expect their extensions to last two to three weeks.
That said, here's the lash aftercare guide you can send directly to them:
- Make sure to avoid rubbing your eyes vigorously.
- Use a mild lash cleanser and warm water to cleanse them gently every morning and evening
- Gently pat lashes dry. Do not rub, pick or pull them.
Clients Not The Right Fit For Eyelash Extensions
When you talk about eyelash extensions retention issues, there's always this perception that it's always about the adhesive or humidity of the lash room.
It's not always the case.
Before your clients even get to a point where they will tell you how to make eyelash extensions last longer, you should first check if they are the right candidate.
Yes, believe it or not, Lash Extensions is not for everyone.
Some lash artists fail to check if their clients are the right fit for eyelash extensions.
The thing is, it is crucial to check certain factors when applying lash extension.
For example, if your client has thin and short lashes, eyelash extensions might not be the best solution.
In these cases, we recommend using a lash serum or lash lift and tint to enhance their natural lashes instead.
On the other hand, if your clients have long and thick lashes, they're likely a good candidate for eyelash extensions.
They will achieve fuller and more voluminous results with extensions than without.
Plus, you can help ensure that your clients receive the best possible outcome from their eyelash extension treatment by considering these factors beforehand or explaining the realistic outcome they can expect to keep their lashes healthy.
In A Nutshell
The best way to ensure long-lasting lashes is to identify the root cause of the retention issues so you can both prevent them from happening or even take corrective measures.
So, there you have it!
In this blog post, we discussed five of the most common retention issues or why lashes are not lasting as they should.
If you are currently experiencing any of these problems, don't worry!
Get a copy of our retention checklist! Type your email below and your FREE copy will be emailed to you!
Thankfully, these issues are relatively easy to rectify.
In fact, we're here to help if you want to take your skill to the next level.
If you have having trouble with retention our classic up-skill & volume up-skill courses have everything you need to be successful as an eyelash artist. Plus you can opt. in for private one on one training!
We hope this article was helpful and shed some light on the most common lash retention issues.
As we wrap it up, do you have any questions?
If so, let us know in the comment below. We would absolutely love to hear from you!
Stay tuned for more eyelash extension tips and tricks!
There will be more blog posts, and even podcasts coming your way soon!