Today we are going to talk about client aftercare. The biggest thing with retention is you want to make sure that you are setting your client up for success, especially after they get home. One thing we always recommend is a sealant. A sealant is going to be used at least three times a week to ensure that they're sealing the glue and the lash together, and protecting against any environmental issues. A cleansing foam and a brush will definitely help to make sure that they are keeping their lashes properly clean from any residue makeup or build -up that can occur between fills. And of course we always go through a client aftercare – No mascara – No oil products remember that oil breaks down the glue -No eyelash curler -No touching them with your fingers, because we all have oil on our hands. So when considering these things and you client still has retention issues, this is where as a technician you must make sure you become a detective. Make sure you ask all the questions and see how their aftercare is, as well as how they are treating them at home. A couple things to also consider is that a client will cycle with her cycle. Another thing you want to make sure to consider if any of their medications have changed they will alter how lashes are retained in between each fill.

In todays video we are going to be talking about proper lash placement. Some of the retention issues that a lot of lash technicians can face is based on lash placement. One of the first things to consider is making sure that your client has all their makeup cleaned off their face, as well as their eyelashes. This needs to happen before starting your service with your lash client. You want to make sure there is no residue or build up in order to achieve perfect lash placement. One of the ways that you can ensure that your client has properly cleaned their lashes, is to provide a lash cleansing foam. This will help to reduce any residue or oil that may have occurred on their lashes. 

Another thing you can do before stating your service is making sure that you prime the lashes. This will also make sure that after cleaning their lashes you will remove any excess oil build-up or residue. A couple things to consider during your lash service, make sure that you have proper lighting. This ensures that you are able to see all the lashes and are getting the proper placement on each individual lash.

Another thing to consider is making sure you use the proper tools. Having perfect tweezers to make sure you can isolate and make sure that each lash is individually separated so that you can have proper placement of each individual eye lash extension. Another thing that you want to consider is proper fitting lashes for your client. This includes length, curl and diameter. You want to always, always remember proper isolation will ensure that you will have the best retention with your clients. Lash placement Do's and Don'ts.

Do's: Using the right angle when placing extension

Placing the extension as closely as possible to the natural curve

“Wrap around” technique may be used when needing a tighter placement of extensions

Don'ts: Partially place extension

Leave a large gap between the eyelid and extension

Place extension on the side or in between two natural lashes

Good placement follows the natural “lash line” as much as possible with getting close to the eyelid with No overlaping.

Poor Angles= Lifting at the base after placement 

Eyelash Extension Retention:

We are going to talk about some things that have been in the industry and have changed so much. Of course what we want to talk about what is retention. A lot of us struggle with our clients sometimes so we can't figure out what the issue may be and we're actually going to break this down into a three video series to help you guys break it down and maybe what it might be that you're struggling with, with your clients. 

Ok so today in our first part of our video series we're going to be talking about glue now there can be a lot of issues that you can have with retention but of course looking at our foundation we're going to be talking about glue now your clients may think your glue has gone bad or you may be having issues of it not sticking as well but the first and foremost thing you want to look at is your working environment. So remember, with your glue the environment can change through the seasons so you want to make sure that you're keeping your settings and your surroundings in your work space at an even temperature. So for lash technicians when you notice that your climate tends to get hotter you're going to notice a few things that change any of those settings it's going to cause your glue to become very tacky and very difficult to work with. You're also going to notice that when you go to brush your lashes during the service you're going to have a lot of lashes that just naturally tends to come off and not stick after they are placed. You want to make sure that you are finding a glue that works for your climate as well as your humidity level.

When it come to your working environment you want to take in consideration your temperature as well as your humidity level. If your working in an higher humidity level you want to make sure you have a thicker glue and if you are working in a lower humidity level you want to make sure that the consistency is a lot thinner this is going to make a big difference in making sure that your lashes stick well and are able to endure the humidity as well as the climate and the temperatures. Another thing that you want to consider as well is making sure you keep the temperature cooler in your room. This makes a big difference to make sure the glue doesn't become tacky or inconsistent when you are putting the lashes on during the whole service. So making sure that you obviously keep your room at a cooler temperature you also want to make sure that you keep your working space and the tools you are using at a cool temperature. Some great examples of keeping your glue cooler is using a glass or jade stone and of course if the humidity is too high go ahead and use a dehumidifier. 

There are some things to consider before you start your lash service on your client. Make sure that you are shaking your glue at least one minute before your service before you even put that droplet on the stone. This is going to ensure that you have an mixture of the amount of glue that's going to be used during the service. After properly shaking your glue you want to make sure that you dispense the first droplet of glue and discard that one. You want to make sure that the next droplet is used because it's going to have the most even mixture of the glue. Always make sure that during your service that you are replenishing your glue droplet every twenty to thirty minuets. Remember never put a new glue droplet on an existing glue drop for the fact is, you want to make sure that you're using the same new consistency of glue throughout your lash service. Always make sure to dip from the center and them obviously when it comes to putting your glue away, You're checking the label for proper glue storage. Remember that glue actually has a lifespan of one to months once it's opened. Make sure that if you are past the expiration to toss it out and get a new one.

Is there a specific type of eyelash that I need?  Everyone who gets lashes has unique characteristics, so this question applies to them all.  Are your eyes almond-shaped? Perhaps they're hooded, round, or monolid? How do you want your lashes to look? Do you want a natural look or a bold "pow" in your face?  Your lash artist will be able to offer you many suggestions about how you can achieve your desired look.  Eyelash extensions are available in many different lengths, thicknesses, and curls. In this article, we will discuss some of the different options and who they are suitable for.

At the inception of eyelash extensions, the J Curl was one of the original curls.  J curls are the flattest of the curls, and are primarily used on natural lashes that are flat or downturned.  Additionally, monolid eyes benefit from the J curl lash extensions, as the reduced curl prevents the lash from contacting the hood.  J curls are not very popular in the current market since they do not provide that extra curly look. The J curl extensions are suitable for those who want a natural look and have monolid eyes. When mapping lashes on Monolid eyes, you should do the Doll Eye and Cat Eye with longer lengths at the inner corners. The J curl is available in most classic lashes including theBL Lashes Laser Lash and Diamond Silk Lashes.

If you are wanting just a bit more curl than what the J Curl Lashes offer then the B Curl lashes might be your best choice. A B curl will have a slightly larger curl on the lash compared to a J curl and will mimic the natural curve of most natural lashes. The B Curl Lashes are ideal for those seeking a more natural look. However, you will only find a few clients in the current market who prefer B curl eyelashes as most prefer to have a larger curl compared to that of their natural lash. The B curl will work for some with Monolid eyes The B curl is available in most classic lashes including the BL Lashes Laser Lash and Diamond Silk Lashes.

For the past decade, C Curl eyelash extensions have been the most popular application.  The medium upright curve gives attention to the eyes but still looks very natural.  As a result of demand, you will find that C curl lashes are easier to come by in different styles and colors  than J and B curls. The C curl also creates a wide-eyed look without making the eyes appear too heavy. These are great to wear on an everyday basis giving a beautiful natural look with some attention to the curl. You’ll find this curl is most suitable for clients with Almond, Round, and hooded eyes. The C curl is available in most classic lashes including the BL Lashes Laser Lash ,Diamond Silk Lashes, iLash Ellipse Lashes, and most Volume Lashes.

Over the last few years, D curl eyelash extensions have become increasingly more popular.  The dramatic appearance of the D curl extensions can only be worn by certain clients, and it can also be very difficult to apply D curl lashes to the natural eyelashes especially if they are a flatter natural lash.  The D curls give your eyes a much more dramatic look and can even make you appear as though you have "fake" lashes.  If you are seeking a more “natural” look the D Curls will not be the ideal choice. If you have a special occasion or really want your eyes to pop then the D Curl extensions will give you that result! The D curl is available in most classic lashes including the BL Lashes Laser Lash ,Diamond Silk Lashes, iLash Ellipse Lashes, and most Volume Lashes.

Other curl options we have available at iLashstore.com include: U curls, L curls , and L+ Curls. If you have a monolid or hooded eye, avoid the U curl. It is an extreme curl and cannot be worn in long lengths by most clients. For clients who want dramatic curls but have flat or downturned natural lashes, the L curl line is a great choice.  The flat base of the L curls make it much easier to apply on these flat natural lashes. The U,L, and L+ curl is available the BL Lashes Laser Lash, iLash Ellipse Lashes.

Thickness

The thickness of lash extensions can range from .03mm to .30mm and beyond.  Comparatively, 15 strands of .03mm can equal the same weight as a .30mm lash.

A volume set of eyelash extensions usually involves thicknesses from .03mm to .10mm as multiple extensions are applied to one single natural lash.  The lightweight properties of the thinner lashes allows the lash artist to “stack” or “fan” lashes for a “doll like” effect.  These volume sets are much softer and lighter for the client, giving a fluffy and voluminous appearance.

A classic lash is generally between .15mm and .25mm thick, one to one for an extension over the natural lash.  Classic eyelash extension sets are the most common and the thickness of the lash extension is usually determined by the health and length of the natural lashes that they are being applied to. Careful consideration should be given to the health of the natural lash and how much weight that natural lash can support. Thick and Heavy lashes can cause poor retention, irritation, and natural lash loss.

Length

In general, eyelash extensions are available in 7mm to 20mm lengths. Anything smaller than a 7mm would probably be used on a lower lash because it would not qualify as an extension. Typically, the lengths from 11-13mm are most commonly used for a natural-looking look.  Anything longer will give the appearance of false lashes. The length should be determined by a client consultation as well as an assessment of the health of their natural lashes.  The longer the lash, the more weight and leverage you are adding to the natural lash.

Types of Lashes:

There are many types of lashes available depending on your skill level and client’s needs. Types of lashes include Classic Lashes, Volume Lashes, Hybrid Lashes, and Premade Volumes.  The Classic lash category includes options such as BL Lashes Laser Lash, iLash Ellipse Lash, and Silk Lashes. These classic lashes range in thickness from .10mm to .30mm and are placed one to one on the natural lash.  BL Lashes Laser lash have a laser scribed classic lash base that helps glue adhere to the lashes better, resulting in better retention. iLash Ellipse Lash features a flat profile or Ellipse shape, which gives the lash more surface area for glue to adhere to. Silk lashes are not actually silk, but they have a lot of the soft properties of a silk type material.

Volume lashes are available in the micro sizes ranging from .03mm to .10mm.  These volume lashes are available in individual lengths as well as premade fans. The premade fans are a fast and convenient way to apply a full set of volume lashes. The premades are available in the typical lash tray with about a 100 fans or they are also available in BULK loose form with about 500 fans per container. Both volumes and premade volumes can be used for Hybrid Sets as mentioned in the next paragraph.

The term hybrid lashes refers to lashes that are a combination of classic and volume lashes.  The hybrid set provides the lash artist with the opportunity to fill gaps by fanning out volumes within the classic set.  These hybrid sets also give that mixed feathery look that is very appealing to some clients.

With all the Eyelash Extension options out there, iLashstore will have the right lash for you!

See our reviews below:

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Lash mapping is a technique for planning which lengths, curls, and thicknesses you will use where, in order to create a fabulous set of eyelash extensions with the style and the level of drama that your client desires, but that is also suited to their eye shape and natural eyelashes.

We’ll take you through exactly how to do lash mapping, as well as some popular lash maps.

Looking for top quality lash supplies at the best price? At BL Lashes, we are happy to provide discounts and amazing wholesale prices to customers who qualify. These accounts are ideal for individual lash artists, personal businesses, salons, and beauty schools looking to purchase lash extension supplies.

Popular Lash Mappings

Natural

The natural eye mapping will follow the natural growth of the client's lashes. This is a gradual change of shape with no dramatic jumps in length.

• Effect: Looks the most natural
• Recommended on: Almond eyes, round eyes, upturned eyes, any face shape
• Avoid on: Hooded eyes, monolid, downturned eyes

Doll eye /open eye

The longest parts of this map are over the iris (using straight lines), then drop down dramatically on the inner and outer corners.

• Effect: Makes eyes look bigger, corrects downturned eyes
• Recommended on: Almond eyes, monolid, downturned eyes, hooded eyes, wide-set eyes
• Avoid on: Round eyes, upturned eyes, narrow face shape, close-set eyes

Cat eye

Stay shorter in length until you reach the pupil then drastically jump up in length from the center of the eye until the outer corner.

• Effect: Makes eyes look wider, corrects close-set eyes
• Recommended on: Almond eyes, round eyes, upturned eyes, downturned, monolid eyes, hooded eyes, close-set eyes
• Avoid on: Downturned eyes, wide-set eyes

Read more: Extreme cat eye eyelash extension - inspirations & lash mapping

CHECKLIST: BEFORE YOU START LASH MAPPING

No doubt your client will have asked you for something in particular. However, you first need to assess a number of different aspects of your client’s face and eyes to determine whether what they have asked for will suit them, and if it won’t… find out what will!

Ask your client to sit still and look straight toward you for a minute while you take a good look to assess various elements of the eyes. If you attempt to do this with your client lying down, you won’t get an accurate impression of your client’s facial features.

Eye shape

The main eye shapes are almond, round, hooded, and monolid.

Almond shape eyes

Almond eyes are a very common eye shape. You have this eye shape if the top and bottom of your iris is slightly covered by the top and bottom lids. If you can see the whole of your iris then you are likely to have round eyes.

• Recommended: Clients with almond eyes can wear practically any styling they request. Choosing a map comes down to the effect your client is hoping to achieve (bigger eyes vs elongated shape).

• Pay close attention to the eye angle (up/down), face shape, and direction of the lashes

Round shape eyes

You have round eyes if you can see the whole of your iris and your eyelids do not cover the top or bottom of it. Usually, this shape of eye looks open and bright.

• Recommended: Opt for a natural or cat-eye map. Having the length concentrated toward the outer corners will help elongate the eyes, creating the illusion of a more almond eye shape. Opt for something looser, such as a B curl or C curl, as these will complement the eye shape.

• Avoid: With the wrong lash map, your client can end up looking like they're in a permanent state of shock. Avoid doll and open-eye mapping. Avoid the strongest curls.

Hooded eyes

Hooded eyes feature a heavy brow bone with a deep-set crease. Depending on the size of the hood, the lash line can disappear under the lid, causing the lashes to be tucked under and the bases almost hidden.

• Recommended: Select a curl that extends past the hood of the lid before curling up; this will ensure the effect is noticeable. A specialized curl for this are L, L+ curls.

• Avoid: Avoid strong curls like CC and D curls as these will curl so much that the tips almost blend into the lid, resulting in an unnatural look and possibly even discomfort for your client.

Monolid eyes

Common in Asian women, monolid eyes feature a less apparent crease.

• Recommended: Doll-eye and cat-eye but use longer extensions on the inner corner.

• Avoid: Natural mapping doesn’t favor monolid clients.

Eye angle

Their eyes may be straight, slightly upturned, or slightly downturned.

Upturned

Upturned eyes have outer corners that turn upward and are higher than the inner corner. Also known as "cat eyes," upturned eyes tilt upward, giving the eye an exotic appearance.

• Recommended: Emphasize the eye shape by using cat eye mapping or create a more balanced look by using natural mapping.

• Avoid: Doll/open eye mapping. Be careful if using strong curls like D as it could make their eyes look startled.

Downturned

The outer corners of downturned eyes are lower than the inner corner.

• Recommended: Opt for a doll eye or open eye map. The length concentrated toward the center of the eye will help to lift it up. Lift the outer corner with a strong curl.

• Avoid: Avoid cat eye styling as length concentrated toward the outer corners can actually emphasize the downturn. As a result, your client may appear sad or sleepy.

Eye Spacing

Evenly-spaced eyes have one eye’s width in between each eye. Close-set/narrow-set eyes are closer together than one eye-width, while wide-set eyes have more than one eye width between them.

When lashing close-set eyes, the width between the eyes is smaller than usual. So, you’ll want to stretch the lash line and elongate the eyes to make them look further apart.

For close-set eyes, we would recommend using longer lengths towards the outer corners to visually open the gap. A doll effect should be avoided with this type of eye shape as it will only accentuate the closeness of the eyes.

Close-set eyes

Eyes are closer together than one eye-width.

• Recommended: Longer lengths towards the outer corners to visually open the gap.

• Avoid: Doll or open-eye mapping. Prominent inner corner.

Wide-set eyes

Have more than one eye width between them.

• Recommended: Doll or open-eye mapping.

• Avoid: Elongated cat eye mapping

Face Shape

Wide faces can carry more dramatic looks on the whole, whereas a very narrow face may look overwhelmed by very long lashes or a wide cat-eye.

Wide face

• Recommended: Cat eye, natural

• Avoid: Doll eye, open eye

Narrow face

• Recommended: Doll eye, open eye, natural

• Avoid: Cat-eye

Natural Lash’s Direction & Curl

The growing direction of natural eyelashes varies between people. Some people have naturally curly lashes that point downwards while others have quite straight or downward-pointing lashes.

Knowing the growing direction of the natural lash is very important as it helps you determine what curl suits your client the most.

Natural Lash Strength

The strength of the natural lash is important to know so you can determine the length or thickness of the extension lashes. Your client may desire very long or very full lashes, but depending on the strength/health of their natural lashes they may not be able to support them. Fine, delicate lashes won't be able to support the weight of 12mm or 13mm length extensions.

You can add an extension that is shorter than the natural lash or up to 3mm longer. You should never go more than 50% longer. If you are unsure how to tell, lay your client down and hold the lash extension up against their natural lash to determine the length of their natural lashes, this will help when lash mapping as you can plan out which lengths you want to use.

Summary

Before beginning every lash mapping process, be sure to consult with your client. See what they want, but be prepared to advise them otherwise if necessary. Longer isn't always better, and the style they want may not look best on them.

Once you have evaluated your client, have a chat with them about the look you are going to create for them. Explain any adjustments that you need to make to what they have asked for and why.

As a BL Lashes distributor, you will find everything you need right here in the USA at iLashstore.com.

As a lash artist, this can be a challenging request, especially if you’re still working on improving your skills. Considerably voluminous than their predecessors, these lashes are super soft and fluffy, but also light enough to wear for a long time.

As you can see in the image below, each mega volume lash strand is made up to 20 individual lashes. That’s 4 times more than a standard 5D volume lash! It takes lots of practice to get good at applying them, but when you do, you’ll be the hottest lash artist in town: everyone will be flocking to you!

To help you get started in, this article we will go through:

• What’s considered a mega volume lash (and what’s not)
• Mega volume lash pros & cons
• Frequently Asked Questions about Mega Volume Lashes by Lash Clients
• Step by step: how to make a mega volume lash fan
• Dos & donts
• A must-have supplies for mega volume lashing

First, what are mega volume lashes?

The difference between mega volume and traditional volume is the number of false lashes used to create a fan and the diameter of these false lashes.

Although there is no clear cutoff number to distinguish mega volume lashes from standard volume lashes, generally speaking, each mega volume fan uses 6 to 20 false lashes with diameters between 0.03 to 0.05 mm, while a volume fan will use 2 to 5 false lashes with diameters between 0.05 to 0.07 mm.

Mega volume creates a much denser and darker look since it uses these lightweight fans with numerous extensions.

Mega volume lash pros

• A much fuller, darker lash line and a more dramatic look
• Mega volume fan wraps around each natural lash, which creates longer retention
• You can charge $250+ per set, great for extra profit

Mega volume lash cons

• Takes a lot more time to apply (2.5-4 hours)
• It takes a lot of time (and patience) to perfect the skill
• Can be hard to achieve symmetry and balance (but can be achieved with practice)

Frequently asked questions about mega volume lashes by lash clients

How long does it take to do mega volume lashes?

Typically, a full set of volume lashes takes approximately three hours to apply. But note that this very much depends on the number of natural lashes a client has as well as the skillset and lashing speed of the lash artist.

How long does a mega volume lash set last?

If applied correctly, mega volume lashes can actually last even longer than a classic lash set. Volume or mega volume lashes have more surface space to lash glue as they wrap around the natural lash instead of sitting on top of it. This, in turn, creates longer retention of up to 7-8 weeks.

Are mega volume lashes safe?

Just like any other lash set, mega volume lashes are safe to have and apply as long as they are applied correctly. When the right lash extensions (the right type, thickness, and length) and type/amount of glue are used, with proper placement and isolation, mega volume lashes are safe as any other lash extensions.

Why is a mega volume lash set so expensive?

It’s safe to assume that for most salons a mega volume lash set is the most expensive one on the menu. It is mainly because applying a mega volume lash set requires lengthy training, a lot of practice, and a high level of expertise. Mega volume lash sets are often only applied by a highly experienced lash tech. Not only that, but a set of mega volume lashes that takes twice as long to apply as a classic lash set.

Can anyone get mega volume lashes?

Without a doubt, mega volume lash extensions are for clients who are willing to go above and beyond and rock a super dramatic full lash look. This is not for the faint of heart! We often hear stories of clients asking to have their mega volume set removed a day after the treatment because they feel they are too dramatic.

Mega volume lashes are very much in, so there will be a lot of people asking for it. But as a professional lash artist, you need to examine if mega volume is a good choice for the specific client.

If a client is asking for a natural mega volume lash, they’re probably just looking for Russian volume or hybrid volume.

We find that a mega volume lash set generally looks a little too dramatic when it’s applied on clients with light-colored hair or elderly clients as the dark lash line creates too much contrast. You might consider using brown lashes for these clients for a more harmonious look.

Step-by-step: How to make mega volume lash set

How to calculate the safe diameter & weight for a mega volume set

Mega volume lashing doesn’t mean you can just attach 20 lashes on a natural lash. Even when you’re using 0.03 thickness! When choosing the right thickness of lash extensions for your client, you always need to consider their natural lashes and their thickness and length.

For thin and brittle natural lashes, it is recommended to use lash extensions of diameter 0.10mm (for Classic). When you translate that into a safe weight for mega volume lash fans, this is the recommended mega volume fan:

How to choose the right length for a mega volume set

When it comes to the lash length for a mega volume set, the general mapping technique works about the same, but avoid using lashes that are too long as this will create a way too heavy look on top of the dramatic mega volume. It can end up looking really too exaggerated, droopy or even sad as a result.

 How to:

Step 1. Prepare a strip of 0.03 or 0.05 lash extensions.

Step 2. Brush the lashes.

Step 3. Pick up the lashes from the pointed line (it is marked on the photo). Grabbing lashes too far from the lash roots can cause separation of the individual lashes.

Step 4. Place the lashes back on the tape.

Step 5. Wiggle the root around carefully to create a perfectly symmetrical fan.

Step 6. Pick up the fan and dip in a glue dot.

Step 7. Apply

How much glue to use for mega volume lash

One of the most common mistakes lash artists make is using too much glue. This mistake comes with an extra cost when you have spent a precious 5 minutes to fan out the most perfect bouquet of mega volume lashes.

The important tip is to dip only 1mm of the lash fan into the glue dot (compared to 2-3mm for the classic lash). The reason behind this is that if you were to over-dip your fan into the glue, the glue will close up the fan you created, which will ruin the fluffy mega volume effect.

How to choose lash extension glue for mega volume lash

When it comes to mega volume lashing glue, thin and fast drying are key. Here is why:

Why thin viscosity?

When using 10 to 20 strands of lash extensions, the root of the mega volume lash fan will inevitably be quite chunky already. If you use thicker lash glue, the stem of the lash fan will get even bigger and that’s NOT going to create a seamless lash life free of lash stickies! So choose very thin (almost watery) lash glue for mega volume lashing.

Why fast drying?

Mega volume lash fans are extremely fragile. We actually need to hold our breath until they are safely attached to the natural lash. Even just a bit of too much pressure on the tweezer can twist and ruin the perfect symmetry of the mega volume fan.

For that reason, we need a lash glue that can lock the shape of the perfect fan as quickly as it can. A slow drying glue has a much higher risk of losing the fan shape, so opt for a lash extension glue that dries within 0.5-2 seconds.

This is why our thin consistency Mach Glue with a drying time of one second is a popular choice for the mega volume lashing technique. 

1. Cost - Premades are much more expensive per lash than individual volume lashes. However, premades can save a bunch of time on your application and we all know time is money.

2. Skill Level - Premades do not require an advanced skill level to apply, whereas individual fan building takes time and practice to perfect.

3. Look - Indivdual volumes will give whatever look you create, you can build tapering fans, alternating size fans, etc. The Premade fans will limit you to what is already made and can look a little less natural once applied.

https://youtu.be/JCLypU4FZb4

What does this Extension Base do?

• Speeds up glue setting time
• Improves lash glue bonding strength
• Removes any contaminates from Synthetic Lash
• Removes sticky strip glue and releases lash from strip

When you lash in low humidity conditions the glue tends to dry much slower.  When you prep your synthetic lash with an Extension Base product you are helping to speed up the cure time when the glue hits the prep'd lash. This also helps with Sensitive glue dry time, since sensitive lash glues dry much slower.

How does Lash Extension Base work?

A nail tech will rough up a fake nail to allow the glue to attach better, and hold for much longer.  The same theory applies here, the lash extension base "roughs" up the synthetic lash for better retention. The lash extension base creates micro indentations on the surface of the synthetic lash allowing the glue to grip better.

How to use the lash Extension Base

1. Apply a small amount of Lash Base to a micro swab or micro brush
2. Apply the lash extension base to the base of the SYNTHETIC lashes on the strip. Do not over wet them!  Just a small amount does the trick.
3. Allow the solution to dry for at least 1 minute.  The lash extension base will evaporate and dry out fairly quickly if only a small amount is applied.
4. Make sure to never make contact with any skin or eyes.

You can find these great products as well as many more at iLashstore.com!

If you’re struggling with eyelash extension retention for your clients, you’re not alone. To help bring you peace of mind, our experts have put together key lash attachment and placement tips for clients. Continue reading to learn how to improve your retention and satisfy your clients with each application.

First rule: Attach lashes 0.5mm away from the skin along the lash line

Extensions must be placed along the natural eyelash, 0.5mm away from the skin along the lash line. If the extensions are not correctly placed at the distance required, this can result in two issues.

If the lash extension is placed too close to the skin, the glue can actually seep into the skin and cause pain, as well as the lash can rub every time that the client opens and closes their eye. This can be extremely uncomfortable and may even lead to swelling, redness, and puffiness to the eye area.

Secondly, if the lashes are attached too far out along the natural lash, it leaves a visible gap. When this happens, dirt and oils can become trapped underneath the lash extension. As a result, the lashes can pop off prematurely. You can even catch the new lash set on your lash brush and pull it off.

Make sure the base of the extension is fully attached

No matter what curl, length, the direction you use, it’s important to make sure the base of the lash extension is fully attached to the natural lash, at least 2mm.

If you’re not careful, you can place it at the wrong angle and the base of the natural lash can stick up. When this happens, dirt and oils can become trapped underneath the lash extension. As a result, the lashes can pop off prematurely. You can even catch the new lash set on your lash brush and pull it off.

Some natural lashes grow bent or sideways. You might be tempted to lash on every single lash, but for the sake of better attachment, leave them out! Bent eyelashes won’t give you enough bonding surface and are likely to fall off prematurely.

The 90-degree rule

The 90-degree rules simply mean that each eyelash extension should be placed at a 90-degree angle. Make sure you attach the lash at a 90-degree from the eyelid Instead of following the natural lashes’ direction or your body position towards the client.

Some designs (ie. Cat-eye) require you to place the lash wider than the 90-degree angle. However, even in this case, from the inner corner to the center of the eye should be lashed at a 90-degree angle. (The outer corner can have a wider angle to give a winged effect)

When the lash extension is placed at a wider angle than 90-degree on the inner corner, not only it doesn’t look flattering but also it can cause discomfort to the customer.

Can I attach a lash extension from the side?

There is no written rule in lash extension from which direction you must attach the extensions. It’s okay to attach from the side and bottom as well. Just make sure the base of the extension is parallel to the natural lash, and you have enough bonding surface.

Top attachment: The most common and popular method. Works especially well for the straight and downward natural lashes.

Side attachment: The advantage of the side attachment method is that it makes the lashes fuller. This works especially well on the client with not enough natural lashes. However, Do not choose this method if your client has curly natural lashes. It’s hard to get enough bonding surface from the side when the natural lashes have strong curls.

Bottom attachment: This is the second most popular attachment method after the top attachment. This works especially well on clients with upward-looking and curly natural lashes.

Extra tip. If your client has very light blond natural lashes, attaching dark color lash extensions may leave their light color roots exposed and it’s not going to look so good (especially when they grow out!).

Use the top attachment method on the top layers of the natural lashes and use the bottom attachment method on the lower layer. In this way, you have them covered in all angles!

BL Lashes Eyelash Extension Retention Checklist

Eyelash extension retention can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We created the following checklist to help you satisfy your clients again and again:

• Clean lashes
• Adhesive type and amount used
• Ideal lash length and weight
• Enough surface area attached
• Angled placement
• Secure bond
• Humidity and Temperature
• Client aftercare