How to Perfect Pretreatment!

The Super Simple 3-Step Pretreatment Routine for Lash Extensions

There are plenty of lash extension pretreatment routines out there. We recommend different approaches depending on the products you have and the time available. So what does a straightforward pretreatment routine look like, and how can you prepare the lashes in just three steps?

How you prepare the natural lashes matters alongside the lash glue you use. Removing makeup, oils and residue gives the adhesive a clean surface to work with. A consistent routine also gives you one less variable to troubleshoot if a client comes back with retention issues.

We’ve all been there. You tell clients, “No mascara between lash sets, and come to your appointment without eye makeup!” Then someone arrives ten minutes late with glitter eyeshadow all over their lash line. If they need to remove their makeup first, show them how to cleanse gently with Sensitive Lash Shampoo, following the product directions.

While they do their first wash, you can make any last-minute preparations at your workstation. Once they’re back, check the lash line for residue before starting your pretreatment. It’s also a good opportunity to show them what a gentle cleanse looks like so they can repeat it at home.

The London Lash 3-Step Pretreatment Routine

Step One: Protein Removing Pads. If you can still see traces of mascara, makeup or oils around the eye area, use Protein Removing Pads according to the product directions. When you’re doing an infill, take care around the existing glue bonds so fibres from the pad don’t catch on them.

Top tip: For more precise application, press a clean microfibre brush against the top pad to pick up a small amount of product. This can help you work around the existing extensions without dragging the pad across the bonds.

Step Two: Cleanser. “But they’re clean!” I hear you say. The Pre-Treatment Lash Cleanser helps remove remaining oils and traces of product from the natural lashes. Use it according to the product directions before moving on to primer.

Step Three: Primer. Follow the cleanser with Lash Primer to prepare the natural lashes for adhesive application. Apply it as directed and let the lashes dry before attaching extensions. If you offer scented cleansers or primers, check your client’s preference before choosing one.

What’s Next? Do You Need Booster?

Think of Retention & Speed Booster as an optional extra. It can help with faster attachment and keep handmade volume fans open during placement. If you use it, follow the product instructions and apply it to the base of the extensions while they’re still on the strip. Keep it off the client’s natural lashes.

If a client regularly comes back with gaps sooner than expected, review the whole appointment before adding another product. Check your pretreatment, room conditions, adhesive choice and attachment technique, and ask how they care for the set between visits.

The three-step routine gives you a consistent starting point. Remove any remaining residue, prepare the natural lashes and make sure they’re dry before applying extensions.