IS YOUR LASH ARTIST GOOD?
With the rising popularity of lash extensions, there is an increase of lash artists popping up on the scene. But how can you tell whether the lash artist you are looking at is good or not? Here are some signs of bad lashes that you can watch out for when looking at artists' work, and what to expect from the best lash extensions.
1. DIRECTION
When you look at someone's eyelash extensions, the lashes should all be pointing up and away from the face. If lashes are twisting and tangled with each other, then chances are the extensions are too heavy for the natural lash. It could also mean that you or your friend forgot to brush out the lashes after a hard night, but if the lashes are always turned in different directions, then it's time to find a new artist. Proper lash curl patterns are essential for a natural and attractive look, especially for clients with downturned eyes or upturned eyes who require specific styling techniques.
2. THICKNESS
Eyelash extension thickness is a crucial factor in achieving a natural look. Eyelash extensions are meant to make your lashes look thick and full, but the lash extensions thickness should never be more than 2x the thickness of the natural lash. Understanding lash thickness and lash diameters is crucial for both artists and clients. The most common lash diameter for classic lash extensions or 1-to-1 lash application is called .15 (point one five), and .07 (point zero seven) for volume lash extensions. It takes three .07 lashes to make up one .15 lash. Eyelash extension diameters can vary, with options like hybrid lash extensions offering a mix of classic and volume lashes for a fuller look.
As you can see in the picture above, not only are the lashes all stuck together, but you can see how small her natural lashes are and that the extensions are WAY too thick. The previous artist that this client went to obviously used too much adhesive as well; let's dive deeper into adhesive use.
3. ADHESIVE USE
This is probably the most common problem I see when receiving a client from another artist. Unfortunately, I have seen sets that were pretty bad. I've seen a previous artist apply pre-made cluster lashes, which are designed for use with temporary glue, to the client's natural lashes using lash adhesive or hair glue! The adhesive was seeping up the fan of the cluster and indicates way too much adhesive being used. Too much adhesive can lead to stuck together painful lashes, creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, and permanent damage due to premature lash shedding. Proper lash extension training emphasizes the importance of correct adhesive application, considering the natural lash strength of each client.
4. LENGTH
We will only go 3mm longer than the natural lash length to keep the client's lashes healthy. Make sure to look in the mirror after your sets to see if your extensions are more than 3mm longer than your natural lashes. If they are, ask to go shorter, or find a new artist. The best lash extensions should enhance your natural lashes without causing damage, whether you're opting for a subtle look or more dramatic styles like mega volume lashes.
5. ISOLATION
Proper lash isolation is right up there with proper adhesive use as far as importance to natural lash health. If an extension is stuck to the one next to it, or stuck to multiple, they will start to pull and cause discomfort. This happens because the lashes grow at all different rates, so as a more mature lash is growing, it can pull on the smaller lash next to it. If the tension is high enough, it can pull that little guy out and damage the follicle, which causes your natural lash to grow back thinner.
Skilled lash artists use specific lash isolation techniques and tools like isolation tweezers and application tweezers to ensure each natural lash is properly separated before applying the extension. This lash abuse over time will cause those natural lashes not to grow at all. Your lash extensions should never feel painful, itchy, or bothersome. Natural lash compatibility and strength should always be considered during the application process.
6. POOR STYLING
Poor design choice isn't a safety matter, but it can change your ideas about lash extensions. If an artist is not trained on how to enhance your eye shape using various lash extension styles, you may get a full set and be disappointed that it doesn't look like your friends' lashes or the lashes on your celeb crush. It may discourage you from continuing to get your fills done. However, give it another chance; you may just need to find an artist that knows which Lash Map would look fab on you!
When choosing a lash artist, it's important to consider their expertise with different lash extension materials, including synthetic lashes. A skilled artist should be able to create a variety of looks, from natural eye extensions to more dramatic styles like doll eye extensions, fox eye extensions, or wispy eyelash extensions. They should always keep in mind the health and strength of your natural lashes. Remember, the perfect lash extensions are those that enhance your natural beauty while maintaining the health of your own lashes.