5 Tips to Enhance Lash Retention: Joy's Essential Guide

Joy’s Top 5 Tips for Lash Retention Success

Great lash retention is the backbone of a thriving lash business, ensuring clients get the most out of their extensions while you maintain a solid reputation. Lash retention isn’t just about technique; it’s also about educating clients on the importance of proper prep and aftercare. Here’s my guide to achieving fantastic lash retention and helping clients understand why these steps are so important.

1. Start with Proper Lash Prep

The journey to amazing lash retention starts before the lash extensions even go on. Clean, properly prepped lashes are essential for strong adhesion. Here’s how I set up for the best results:

Use a Lash Extension-Approved Cleanser

Oils, makeup, and residue can interfere with lash glue, so cleansing is a must—even for clients who don’t wear makeup. A lash-specific cleanser helps remove impurities and creates a clean slate for bonding.

Tip: Encourage first-time clients to purchase a lash cleanser from you before their first appointment and use it daily in the days leading up to their session. You can offer to post it to them or have them pick it up at your studio. When clients arrive with clean lashes, they’re set up for better retention, and it makes your job easier.

Educate Clients on Aftercare

If clients arrive with makeup or oils built up on their lashes, don’t skip over it—let them know. Gently explain why lash cleanliness is so important. Say something like, “Hey Jess, I noticed some build-up on your natural lashes from makeup or mascara. I’ll do my best to remove it with a lash bath and priming, but just be aware that today’s extensions may not last as long. That’s why it’s crucial to keep oily products away from your lashes and use the lash cleanser I recommended. This way, your lashes will last longer and stay healthier, and you’re less likely to experience any lash mite issues.”

Trust me, the mention of lash mites gets clients serious about aftercare fast!

2. Control Temperature and Humidity for Optimal Lash Adhesive Performance

The environment in your lash room plays a huge role in how well your adhesive performs. Proper humidity and temperature are essential for getting the best out of your lash glue.

Know Your Adhesive’s Ideal Range

Each lash adhesive has a specific range for humidity and temperature. Most glues work best at around 45-60% humidity and 20-23°C, but check the specific guidelines for your adhesive.

Use a Hygrometer

Monitoring your lash room’s humidity with a hygrometer is a game-changer. Adjusting the environment doesn’t mean wrestling with air conditioning or humidifiers all day. Pros know to keep the room stable but switch to a high-humidity adhesive on rainy, humid days instead of fighting with equipment to adjust the room’s climate. This quick adhesive change is a much easier solution.

Tip: Don’t skimp on fresh adhesive! Replace your lash glue every 30 days. Using fresh adhesive ensures better bonding and retention. It’s one of the most important investments you can make.

3. Avoid Excessive Adhesive and Handle with Care

Controlling the amount of adhesive is essential to ensure a secure bond and avoid irritation. Here’s how to get it right:

Skip the Swipe

Don’t swipe or paint the adhesive on the extensions after dipping. Modern lash glues set quickly, and swiping disrupts the bond by causing it to partially set before the extension reaches the lash. Swiping excess adhesive on eye pads can also cause vapours to spread, potentially irritating clients’ eyes or triggering an allergic reaction. For the best results, check out our tutorials on how to dip perfectly every time—no extra steps needed.

4. Educate Your Clients on Lash Extension Aftercare

Aftercare is crucial for lash retention, and client education plays a huge part. Don’t assume clients know how to care for their lashes—give them clear guidance:

Clean Lashes Daily with a Lash Cleanser

Encourage clients to wash their lashes daily using a lash-approved cleanser. This removes natural oils and any debris that can weaken the adhesive bond.

Avoid Oil-Based Products

Remind clients to avoid oil-based products around their eyes, as oils are the number one enemy of lash adhesives.

Gently Dry and Brush Lashes Daily

After washing, clients should pat their lashes dry gently and brush through them with a clean spoolie. This keeps their lashes looking fresh and helps distribute natural oils evenly.

Tip: When recommending a lash cleanser, make it clear that it’s for more than just clean lashes. A good cleanser protects their investment in extensions, keeps lashes healthy, and reduces the chances of issues like blepharitis or irritation.

5. Perfect Your Lash Placement and Isolation Technique

Proper lash placement makes a huge difference in lash retention and client comfort. Here are a few quick tips:

Isolate Each Natural Lash

Attach each extension to a single natural lash, without touching the skin or bonding multiple lashes together. Stickies (where multiple lashes stick together) can cause early lash loss and discomfort.

Place Extensions Close—But Not Too Close—to the Lash Line

Aim to place each extension around 0.5-1mm from the lash line. Getting the distance right improves retention and avoids irritation. To make placement easier, slightly tilt the client’s head back, so you have a clear view of the lash line. For some clients, you may also need to gently tape up the lids to see the true base of the lashes.

Why Proper Lash Hygiene and Technique Matter

Remember, as a lash artist, your role isn’t just about applying beautiful lash extensions—it’s also about educating your clients on how to care for them. When clients understand the “why” behind proper lash hygiene and aftercare, they’re more likely to follow through, leading to better retention, healthier lashes, and a stronger relationship with you as their lash artist.

By taking a proactive approach, you’ll help clients get the most out of their extensions and keep them looking beautiful. Happy lashing!