Improve Eyelash Extension Retention: Pro Application Tips
"My lash extensions started falling out almost immediately..." Does this sound familiar? While proper aftercare by the client is important, the "application technique" used during the procedure actually plays a huge role in how long your eyelash extensions last.
This time, we'll explain the main reasons why lash extensions might not last long and share key application techniques that professional lash artists use to improve retention.
1. Often Overlooked? The Importance of "Pre-Treatment" Before Application
Before applying eyelash extensions, it's crucial to thoroughly remove oils and dirt from the natural lashes through "pre-treatment."
-
Oil & Dirt Are Enemies: Residual oil or makeup (like foundation) on natural lashes interferes with the glue (adhesive), becoming a major cause of extensions falling out prematurely.
-
Thorough Removal with Pre-Treatment Agent: Use a dedicated pre-treatment agent to carefully remove oils from the base to the tip of the lashes.
-
Dry Thoroughly: After pre-treatment, it's also vital to ensure the lashes are completely dry.
This extra step maximizes the adhesive's bonding power and significantly improves extension retention.
2. Mastering Glue Handling: The Key is the Right Amount and Speed
How the glue is handled is a critical factor that determines lash retention.
-
Use the Right Amount of Glue:
-
Using too little glue results in a weak bond, making extensions prone to falling off. Conversely, too much glue can cause clumps at the base, leading to an unnatural look and potentially slower drying.
-
-
-
It's important to maintain the right amount, as shown in the image above.
-
Be careful not to wipe away too much excess glue when trying to avoid clumps. Overcompensating to prevent clumps can lead to removing too much glue.
-
-
Speed is Crucial! Be Mindful of Glue Curing Time:
-
Glue starts curing (hardening) as soon as it's exposed to air. If too much time passes between dipping the extension in glue and applying it to the natural lash, the adhesive strength will decrease.
-
Understanding the curing time of the specific glue being used and applying the extension swiftly is essential.
-
To ensure the glue is always fresh, dispense a new drop every 5-10 minutes.
-
3. Application Don'ts: Avoid Touching Extensions Repeatedly!
Do you find yourself constantly touching the artificial lash during application, trying to adjust the angle?
-
Curing Progresses with Each Touch: Adjusting the position repeatedly causes the glue to cure further before it can properly bond to the natural lash.
-
Be Precise the First Time: Once you've targeted the placement, it's important to apply the extension to the correct position and angle with minimal adjustments.
Practice and experience are essential to achieve perfect placement in one go.
4. Base Lifting is a Sign of Poor Retention! Ensure a Secure Fit
When the base of the artificial lash lifts away from the natural lash, it's another cause for extensions falling out easily.
-
Debris Gets Trapped: Gaps created by lifting allow dust, oil, and other debris to get trapped, weakening the bond.
-
Snagging on Towels, etc.: When drying your face with a towel after washing, the fibers can easily catch on the lifted base, increasing the risk of pulling the extension off.
It's crucial to ensure the extension fits snugly along the curve of the natural lash, from base to tip, maximizing the bonding area. Be aware that choosing extensions with a very strong curl can sometimes result in a smaller contact area.
5. It's Not Just Aftercare! Professional Technique is the Secret to Longevity
No matter how carefully a client follows aftercare instructions, if the initial application is flawed, lash retention will be significantly reduced.
Of course, diligent home care by the client—such as not rubbing eyes and avoiding oil-based cleansers—is extremely important. However, the foundation for long-lasting extensions is the precise and secure application technique performed by the lash artist.
Conclusion: Achieve Longer-Lasting Lashes with Correct Knowledge and Technique
Poor eyelash extension retention often stems from issues within the application process: inadequate preparation, improper glue handling, slow application, or lifting at the base.
Carefully reviewing each of these points and mastering the correct techniques is the key to providing clients with the satisfying, long-lasting eyelash extensions they desire. Keep these tips in mind during your daily salon work!
Explore our full range of professional lash products, designed for optimal performance and client satisfaction.
