Prior to the application of eyelash extensions, it is essential that the client fill out a consent form, granting the lash tech permission to perform the treatment. By doing so, it establishes clear guidelines as to what the client can expect from the procedure, and informs the technician of any sensitivities the client may have to the products used. This blog post aims to cover everything that should be included in an eyelash extension application consent form, and details the reasoning behind asking these questions.
If a client has ever reacted to a plaster before it is possible that they will be sensitive to gel pads used to secure the lower lashes, and very likely that any medical tape used may cause an irritation. It is best to use a pair of silicone pads on these clients, which have no tack and will not cause a reaction.
It is safe practise to have a doctor grant your client permission for lash extensions to be applied if the client has had an eye injury or illness recently. It is best to have a note signed by the doctor given to the technician to allow them the peace of mind that they will not cause damage by applying lash extensions to the client. The adhesives used can be drying to the eye, and if the eye has experienced trauma, reducing moisture levels can cause discomfort to the client.
Lash extensions cannot be applied to people who have experienced a reaction to surgical glues or nail glues in the past - lash extension adhesives are made from cyanoacrylate, the same product used to create medical adhesives and nail glues. A reaction to either of these is almost a guarantee that the client will react to lash extension adhesive.
Watery eyes, dry eyes, itchy eyes and eye rubbing are all symptoms of seasonal allergies and all affect lash extensions. Eyes that water throughout the application can cause the lash extensions to fall out prematurely, whereas clients who suffer from dry eyes may find this exasperated by lash application.
Itchy eyes are typically caused by pollen getting caught in the lashes, and the problem can be magnified if the client does not wash their lashes once having extensions applied. This can result in eye rubbing, which can break the bonds of the extensions and cause premature loss. It is essential that the client understand the importance of good eye hygiene whilst wearing lash extensions and cleanse their lashes daily, regardless of whether they suffer allergies or not. A range of aftercare products can be found on the Designer Aftercare page.
Maintaining eye health is vital in day to day life, and even more so when wearing eyelash extensions. Blepharitis suffers may find their symptoms are exaggerated with lash extensions, and it is best for sufferers to remain extension free until the condition clears. Lash extension wearers, and sufferers of Blepharitis should use Chrissanthie eye cleanser to keep their eyes clean and healthy.
Some lash adhesives can contain latex. The idea behind adding this ingredient is to allow the adhesive to be flexible, and improve retention. Some clients are allergic however, so it is best to be aware of whether your adhesive contains this ingredient. Both Lady Black and Sky S+ sold in the Designer Store are latex free and formaldehyde free.
Previous application of extensions is an area I like to highlight, as it gives an opportunity to discuss with the client the previous application by the past lash tech. Were they happy with the lashes, what would they change, did they know what was applied and what products used? This gives a guide as to what the clients' expectations are, and allows the tech to determine what style the client wishes to have applied.
It is not uncommon for stress or hormone imbalance to cause hair, lashes, and brows to fall out. Persons suffering from such issues are not good candidates for lash extensions as the lashes will shed prematurely, and not last the typical duration of a lash cycle.
Illnesses and injuries can effect the immune system and the body in a compromised state. It is not wise to apply any chemicals or potential allergens onto a person who has suffered an illness or injury, as they are at a higher risk of developing an allergy to the products used.
When pregnant, the body experiences increased sensitivities.
As a result, it is possible that pregnancy can increase the likelihood of a client developing an allergy to the products used in lash extension application. Should an allergy occur, the client is limited in medications doctors may prescribe to counter the allergy due to the risk these medications may pose to the baby. However, once the extensions are removed the allergy will subside. Should a reaction occur it will in no way affect the baby.
During the pregnancy, some women have excellent retention, and find their lashes look better than ever. Others suffer from a shorter lash cycle, and find their hair falls out a lot quicker than normal.
Once the child is born many women find that they have a sudden shedding of hair - and can find their lashes fall out quickly once the child is born. It is important that the client understands that how the pregnancy effects their hair cycle is unpredictable and it may be best to wait until the child is born before having lashes applied if they do not wish to have more frequent infills.
Anyone suffering from a condition that causes premature hair loss is unlikely to be a good candidate for lash extensions. Extensions can be applied only to natural lashes. These clients should be accessed on a case by case basis and application should be done only with the approval of a doctor.
Clients who are taking medications prescribed for hair loss may have issues with retention. They should be made aware prior to application that they may need more regular infills due to a shorter lash cycle and extra care must be taken in application to ensure the extensions are suitable for the natural lash.
Deficiencies causing lash loss mean the client has a shorter lash cycle and will need infills frequently. They are likely to benefit more from a lash serum and by taking biotin.
Trichotillomania sufferers are not good candidates for lash extensions.
The extensions may motivate them to not pull out their lashes but it must be clearly explained prior to application that the technician is not responsible for lash damage caused by the client pulling out the extended lashes.
Recent illness means a compromised immune system. It is best to wait a few weeks for the immune system to repair itself prior to applying lash extensions to reduce the likelihood of the client suffering an allergic reaction.
Not everyone is comfortable with having photos taken of them, and in order for photos to be used the client must give permission. Photos will not be published without the express permission given by the client.
Lash technicians are not doctors and are unable to diagnose or treat any issues arising from the application of lash extensions. If the client suspects they are having a reaction to having the lash extensions applied it is strongly recommended they see a doctor. With the permission of the doctor, the removal of the extensions can be performed. The likelihood of a reaction occurring is less than 2%, and can occur at any time, but it is vital that the client be aware of this risk. They should also be made aware that the body can tag any product as a histamine at any time and this is not exclusive to the products used to apply lash extensions.
Anyone can become allergic at any time to any beauty product or ingredient, and this extends into foods, and other areas as well. Changes in eating habits, stress, and other factors can trigger allergies, and is not lash extension specific.
As a result, the lash technician is not accountable for any reaction suffered.
The service was performed and all risks were acknowledged by the client and accepted as a possibility, so no refunds will be given.
Some clients may find that eyelash extensions are not suitable for them and the change from their natural lashes be too dramatic and request the removal of the extensions. If an alteration can be done it will be performed in a complimentary 30 minute touch up.
Lash extension application involves using a medical grade adhesive to bond synthetic extensions to the natural lash. The eyes must remain closed to avoid irritation, and in rare cases can cause issues to arise. Any sensitivities felt during the application are likely able to be remedied and should be brought to the attention of the lash tech as they occur.
Eyelash extension application is an art and careful maintenance is required to ensure the extensions last the duration of the lash cycle.
The extensions are applied to natural lashes approximately 2mm from your lash line, and each lash is isolated to ensure it does not prohibit the growth of neighbouring lashes. Each natural lash has its own individual growth rate, and will shed once it has reached the end of its life cycle. This lash will then be replaced by a new lash, which is why infills are required to maintain a full, lush lash line.
In order for all clients to maintain gorgeous lashes, it is essential that the lash tech remains in good health. If there is any change the client is sick it is appreciated that the client refrain cancel their appointment, to allow the tech to remain well, and therefore not compromise the appointments of other clients. Self employed lash techs do not get to take paid sick leave, and if sick, faces the choice of working whilst ill and risking the health of their clients, or taking unpaid leave and being unable to pay bills.
Last minute cancellations and no shows result in wasted time and disappointed clients who would have happily booked that appointment had they known it was available. Reminders are sent out two days prior to allow ample time for the client to give notice if they are unable to make their appointment.
Designer Lashes charges by time for infills. If a client has less than 40% remaining extensions when they come in for a fill, they will not leave with the same level of coverage initially achieved in the application of a full set. It is essential that the lashes be maintained to ensure durability, and allow for ample time for infills.
Eye makeup needs to be removed prior to application of extensions and many makeup products leave residue unable to be seen by the eye. This residue can prohibit the bonding of the extensions and cause premature lash loss.
By signing and dating the agreement the client acknowledges the risks and is happy to proceed with the application. If changes to the clients medical history arise it must be made known prior to the next application of lash extensions. Any questions can be asked prior to the application, or requests for certain lash styles can be made.