A lash appointment always starts with a consultation. This initial stage is when you'll get to know your client, understand their unique lash preferences, and address any concerns they may have. With this information, you can ensure your client leaves their appointment happy with their new look.

Besides client preference, lash consultation also involves inspecting certain aspects to ensure their safety throughout the procedure. Here are some key areas you need to look into:

• Eyelash Anatomy: Familiarize yourself with your client’s eye structure, including the pupil, eyelid, iris, and conjunctiva. Each of these areas can guide you on where to place lash extensions and help you identify the most suitable lash length and style for their eye shape.
• Health Conditions: Eye health conditions such as dry eyes or blepharitis can affect how you will apply lash extensions and how well they stay on. Don't forget to ask your client to disclose pre-existing conditions so you can take proper cautions beforehand.
• Lash History: Find out whether they have had lash extensions in the past and what their experience was like. You may use this information to determine what lash application works best for them.
• Lash Curl, Style, and Length: These three factors all play a significant role in the overall look of the lash extensions. It's essential to communicate with your clients about their preferred lash style to complement their natural beauty.
• Consent Form: Have your client sign a consent document. This form will help protect you and your client by documenting what was discussed and agreed upon during the consultation.

You will have clients who have never had lash extensions before, so they may find this appointment exciting yet nerve-wracking. Here are a few things you can do to help them relax and prepare for their first ever lash appointment:

• Suggest they avoid caffeine for a few hours before the appointment. Caffeine can make you jittery, which increases the risk of irritation.
• Don't wear strip lashes. If your client normally wears strip lashes, encourage them to remove these lashes for a day or two before their session. Doing so will allow their natural lashes to breathe, giving you a better view of their lash line.
• Clean off their eye makeup. Remove their eye makeup before the process—everything from foundation to mascara. The cleaner the lashes are, the stronger the adherence of the extensions. It also prevents clumps or premature lash fallouts.
• Don't wear contact lenses. Inform them that wearing contact lenses during the session is not advisable. The glue can irritate if it comes into contact with the eye, leading to complications.

Think about it—when you go to any appointment, you usually try to relax and destress from your busy life. It's the same for your lash appointments; you don't want to work in a rushed, unorganized environment.

For this reason, it's so important to take the time to set up your workplace in a way that promotes relaxation and tranquillity. Little details can be of great relevance in creating a lash experience that your clients will love.

A few preparations can go a long way and help establish the tone. Consider these pointers:

• Good lighting is essential in a lash extension set. Natural light is one option, but we recommend using a strong artificial light positioned right above the client. We recommend Glamcor since its powerful, concentrated light gives lash artists a precise view of each lash. This way, they can highlight any areas that need more attention.
• The area should be tidy and uncluttered to help you stay organized. Ensure sufficient counter space for your items and that everything is conveniently located.
• Your workstation should be comfortable for both you and your client. Use an adjustable chair to help you find the ideal posture. Get a table with a comfortable height for both the lash artist and the clients getting their lashes done.
• Having sufficient ventilation in your workspace is crucial because lash extension application involves glue and other chemicals. You can achieve it with an exhaust fan or by keeping the windows open.

Remember, the pre-appointment stage is the front page of creating a successful experience for you and your client. By setting up your workspace carefully and thoughtfully, you can provide a high level of service that will keep your clients coming back.

You've just learned how to consult with your future clients successfully! Now, let's talk about what you should do during the exciting part of the appointment: the actual lash makeover.

First things first: let's set up your lash tool kit! There are many lash extension tools for your selection, but not all are necessary. If you're still a newbie lash stylist, don't overwhelm yourself with advanced equipment. Instead, use this guide from our classic lash course.

We're almost ready to apply the lashes! But before that, let's clean your client's natural lashes first. They shouldn't be dirty, and you must remove any oil buildup so that the adhesive can bond with the lashes better. It will also prevent the risk of eye conditions.

Here's a preview of how you do it.

1. Use a clean towel to cover your client's hair and keep it protected from any accidental spills.
2. Gently remove eye makeup residue with a cotton swab dipped in a water-based remover.
3. Let the client know what you'll do before each step to make them more comfortable when you apply products in and around their eyes.
4. Thoroughly cleanse each eye using the lash shampoo and cotton swabs.
5. Rinse the eyes and lashes with saline solution. Then, dry them with tissues until no more foam is visible and the eyes are completely dry.

Finally, we're at the heart of the Classic Course: the lash application! It's time to get a sneak peek of what it's like to perform a classic lash extension service on your client. Here's a quick guide to give you a gist of the process.

Once you're done with the lash treatment, your next task would be educating your clients about aftercare. They must know how to properly care for their eyes and extensions to extend their lash investment.

Here's what your clients should know about the most effective daily aftercare practices.

• Avoid exposing the lashes to water for 4 to 6 hours after the initial lash extension application.
• If you're wearing eye makeup, gently remove it using a cleansing wand, water-based remover, and lash shampoo.
• When drying your face, pat it dry with a sponge or fibre-free towel to avoid pulling the lashes out.
• Don't forget to brush your lashes regularly (especially after washing your face) to keep them in good condition.
• Do not sleep on your face to avoid lash fallout.
• Don't try to rub your eyes or pull on the lashes.
• Avoid putting oil on the lash extensions. Facial steam, fire, and saunas are also discouraged.

We’ve also included some of the most frequently asked questions about lash aftercare below:

Can you wash your face while wearing lash extensions?
Yes, absolutely! It will help remove existing oil, dirt, or makeup residue. But be sure to use the right tools and brush the lashes afterward to keep them in good shape.

Is it safe to wear mascara with eyelash extensions?
It's possible with classic extensions but requires a lot of caution. Otherwise, you'll risk damaging your lash investment due to the pressure and softened lash glue. If you really have to, use oil-free, water-based products. But mascara should never be necessary - lash extensions already enhance your lashes more than mascara!

How often do you fill classic eyelash extensions?
We suggest having lash refills every 2-3 weeks. This can help fix the gaps and replenish the lash line. However, more than three weeks of fill-in requests will need a full set application.

As a future lash artist, you must be aware of the health and safety risks involved in the lash industry. Otherwise, neglecting them will only put a damper on your career. Here are some reminders from us.

Lash artists are no strangers to pain. They constantly bend over their clients for hours to apply a good lash set. But it's not just the physical pain that they have to deal with.

The mental stress of constantly looking for potential health and safety hazards can also take its toll. Thankfully, there are some health and safety practices to fight that constant repetitive motion:

• Take breaks often. Take frequent breaks in-between your appointments to avoid neck and back strain. For example, stand up straight and do gentle stretches every 20 minutes.
• Use supportive cushions. If you're sitting or standing for long periods, get a supportive cushion to help take the pressure off your lower back.
• Take care of your mental health. The demands of being a lash artist can be tough, so it's important to find ways to destress and relax. Set aside time for yourself; perhaps try something like yoga, exercise, or meditation.
• Stay hydrated and eat healthy foods. This routine is absolutely necessary and will help your body cope with the physical demands of being a lash artist.

These easy steps can reduce the risks of developing minor to severe health issues and help enhance your wellness.