How To Use Lash Extension Tools Safely
We have extensively discussed appropriate techniques and safe application of lash extensions but more often than not we neglect to mention safe use of tools and additional products. When it comes to lashing, there is so much more to just correct dipping into your eyelash adhesive and accurate lash extension placement. You need to know the ins and outs of how to hold your eyelash tweezers and apply the correct amount of liquid products for the safety of your clients. Let’s delve into the topic a little deeper.
Tweezers
Eyelash Extension Tweezers are like your second pair of hands. Each Lash Tech will have their favourite pair, whether those are Curved or Angled Isolation Tweezers or Fiber Tip Volume Tweezers VS our regular pair, you are in charge or what works best for you. In this case, knowing exactly what to do with these tweezers is paramount.
Countless beginner Technicians experience nerves when lashing for the first time so knowing the exact pressure and technique to using their tweezers is very important. When isolating the natural lashes with a Curved pair of tweezers, it is important not to press too hard onto the Eyepatch of the client, creating pressure on the under eye and potentially, a stabbing feeling if the tweezers have a pointed tip. We understand it may feel easier to isolate an eyelash when the tweezers are pressed against the eyepatch but this can be very uncomfortable if the pressure is too much. Be light handed and try to touch the eyepatch ever so slightly if necessary.
Another issue may be when lashing or even removing eyelashes. Depending on the speed in which you are lashing or removing eyelashes during a treatment you want to be careful not to accidentally poke your client. Yes, very advanced Lash Artists can lash quickly and therefore use a Fast Drying eyelash glue, but if you’re not there yet, don’t run before you can walk. Being quick with your hands needs to also come with steady and accurate application. If your eyelash extension is a little off skew or you notice stickies, don’t just pull them outright, you could cause discomfort, pain and even plucking of the natural eyelash. Use the steady and gentle Banana Peel method which will remove any unsatisfactory extension with ease.
Eyepatches and Tape
Applying eyepatches may seem relatively simple, but this process can cause irritation and even a chemical burn. Our London Lash Eyepatches are coated in a hydrating gel which is moisturising and nourishing and acts as the adhesive to hold the patch into place, but of course with that comes chemicals, which if placed correctly are skin safe and even beneficial. But, in certain cases if placed too close to the eye, enough to touch the client’s eyes this can cause serious irritation to the eyeball and potentially pain. Not only will your client’s eyes water throughout the procedure but they may feel so uncomfortable that they won’t be able to continue with the treatment. Safe application of eyepatches is important, always place the eyepatch just beneath the under eye, slightly below the end of the bottom lashes covering them out of your way.
There may be times where you would need to use Foam Tape or Eyelid Tape to help you out during a treatment. Perhaps you need to replace the patches with Foam Tape, or you need to use Micropore Tape to hold down a few pesky lashes, you even might need to use Eyelid Strips to gently pull back a client's hooded eyelid for better accessibility. In these cases, you should always been mindful when placing the tape. Be as precise as possible, you don't want to be pulling the tape off the skin continuously to find the best placement. Furthermore, when removing the tape with your tweezers, make sure you're gentle, don't scratch or tug the client's skin, slow and steady does it.
Liquids
Pretreatment is by far the most important step of your lashing treatment. Prepping the eyelashes correctly comes with the benefits of prolonged retention and natural lash health. But, having all the Pretreatment products in your Acrylic Organiser isn’t just for aesthetics. You need the tools to go along with safe application and cleansing.
Do not douse your client’s lashes with products. Always use the correct brush necessary for application and cleaning. For our Lash Shampoo always pair up the process with the specially designed Cleansing Brush which will get in between all of those natural lashes for a thorough cleanse. Protein Removing Pads can be used by themselves or if you want to save some product, dab two Micro Fibre Brushes to coat them in the liquid from the pad and brush through the lashes for deep protein removal. When it comes to Cleanser, Primer and Booster our favourite tools are Cleansing Applicators or Micro Brushes with a bendable tip. With these applicators you can clean through layers of lashes applying the correct amount of product perfect for the lashes alone, making sure it doesn’t touch or reach your client’s eyes.
Glue Remover
Most advanced Lash Techs are used to using Gel or Cream Removers for eyelash glue with ease. But sometimes Gel Remover can be a bit too thin in consistency for beginners, therefore applying a small amount on a Cleansing Applicator will be your best technique to begin with. This way you will be using the correct amount of remover without over saturating your client’s lashes.
Alternatively, beginners can use Cream Remover, a product which does not leak or move once applied. Cream Remover is formulated so that when it is applied with an applicator, it will stay put and work its magic to break down those glue bonds. Once broken down, you just have to gently pull away the lash extensions and wipe away any excess remover. For the best results and safe practices, read our blog post on Cream Remover here.
So we hope you have learned some tips and tricks on which applicators and tools to use when performing your treatments and how to use them safely. Everyone is different, so do your best to keep practising and perfecting your skills and knowledge with safe application. Always check in with your clients to make sure they are comfortable and feel at ease with your techniques. Lash away safely.