Eyelash Extension Pre-Treatment: Key to Longevity
"I just got my lash extensions, but they started falling out right away..." "Is there any way to make them last longer?"
Do these worries sound familiar? Actually, a crucial step that significantly impacts the retention (how long they last) of your eyelash extensions is the "pre-treatment" done before the application.
In this article, we'll delve into what pre-treatment in lash extension salons involves, why it's so important, and the specific steps, all explained from a professional's perspective.
Why is Pre-Treatment Absolutely Essential?
Pre-treatment is the process of thoroughly removing any makeup residue, sebum (natural oils), and dust from your natural lashes before applying the extensions.
Even if they look clean, your lashes can surprisingly harbor various residues:
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Leftover traces of eye makeup
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Oils from daily skincare products or natural sebum
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Dust particles from the air
If extensions are applied while these residues remain, the glue (adhesive) cannot bond securely to your natural lashes, causing the extensions to fall out prematurely.
By performing a thorough pre-treatment...
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Adhesive bonding dramatically improves! → This enhances the retention (longevity) of your extensions.
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Lashes are kept clean! → This also helps prevent eye troubles.
In short, pre-treatment is an absolutely vital step for the final look, longevity, and even the health of your eyes when getting lash extensions.
A Look at the Professional Pre-Treatment Steps!
In salons, technicians carefully perform pre-treatment tailored to each client's lash condition, following steps like these:
Step 1: Removing Makeup Residue & Dirt (Cleansing)
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If you're wearing eye makeup: First, a dedicated cleansing agent is used to gently and thoroughly remove mascara, eyeliner, etc. A cotton pad might be placed under the lower eyelid while a cotton swab dipped in cleanser carefully wipes the lashes, taking extreme care not to get any product in the eyes.
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If you're not wearing eye makeup: Even if lashes appear clean, they might have residue from UV protection products (like titanium dioxide), sebum, or dust. Therefore, regardless of makeup presence, a special pre-treatment product (primer or lotion) is used to effectively remove oils and dirt from the lash surface.
Step 2: Removing Moisture (Drying)
After using cleansers or pre-treatment products, it's crucial to thoroughly dry the lashes using an air blower or similar tool, ensuring no moisture remains. Lingering moisture can cause the adhesive to cure too rapidly, paradoxically leading to weaker bonding and reduced retention. This drying step is very important.
Step 3: Grooming the Lashes (Combing)
Finally, a clean comb or brush is used to gently stroke the lashes towards the tips, smoothing out the hair direction. This step also allows the technician to check the natural growth pattern of the lashes, preparing them for easier extension application. Combing can also help naturally shed any lashes that are already loose due to their growth cycle.
Main Tools Used for Pre-Treatment
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Cleansing Agent: For makeup removal
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Pre-treatment Agent (Primer/Lotion): For removing sebum and oils
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Cotton Swabs, Cotton Pads, Microfiber Brushes, etc.: For wiping away residue
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Air Blower: For drying the lashes
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Comb/Brush: For grooming the lashes
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(For Fills/Repairs) Remover: For dissolving old adhesive and removing existing extensions
Technician Hygiene is Also Crucial!
To ensure clients feel safe and comfortable, technicians adhere strictly to hygiene protocols:
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Clean Attire: Ideally, something easy to move in and where dirt is easily visible, like a lab coat.
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Hand Sanitization: Always performed before starting the procedure.
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Wearing a Mask: Prevents droplet transmission.
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Tying Hair Back: Keeps hair from touching the client's face during application.
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Tool Sterilization: All tools used are kept constantly clean and sterilized.
Maintaining thorough hygiene is paramount for client safety.
Conclusion: Thorough Pre-Treatment is the Secret to Long-Lasting, Beautiful Lash Extensions!
Eyelash extension pre-treatment is more than just cleaning. It's a vital process that enhances retention, ensures a beautiful final look, and protects the health of your eyes.
If you feel like your lash extensions don't last long enough, insufficient pre-treatment might be a factor. Choose a reputable salon that performs meticulous pre-treatment, and enjoy your ideal lashes for longer!
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