As a lash artist, part of your expertise is knowing when to recommend a lash fill versus a full set to your clients. These decisions are key to maintaining the health of your clients’ natural lashes while ensuring they receive the best possible results. Whether you're just starting in the lash industry or are an experienced professional, understanding the difference between a lash fill and a full set, and knowing when to recommend each, can set you apart as a trusted expert.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details of lash fills and full sets, explaining when to suggest each service to your clients, as well as the factors that can influence this decision. You’ll also get some insider tips to ensure your clients leave happy and with the beautiful lashes they want.
What is a Lash Fill vs. Full Set?
Before jumping into when to recommend each service, it’s important to understand the key differences between a lash fill and a full set.
Full Set
A full set of lash extensions is when an artist applies extensions to every single natural lash, creating a completely new, full lash look. This is typically done for clients who are new to lash extensions or have let their current set grow out or shed significantly.
- Duration: 2-3 hours, depending on the volume and style.
- Ideal for: First-time clients or clients who’ve had an extended period since their last appointment.
- Result: A completely new set of full lashes with an even coverage across the lash line.
Lash Fill
A lash fill is a maintenance appointment that involves adding extensions to the natural lashes that are still intact, typically about 50-70% of the original extensions. This procedure refreshes the existing set, adding new lashes to replace those that have naturally shed.
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours, depending on how much shedding has occurred.
- Ideal for: Clients who have kept up with their appointments and have natural lash growth.
- Result: A refreshed, fuller lash look that maintains the shape of the original set.
Now that we’ve broken down the differences, let’s dive into when you should recommend each option to your clients.
When to Recommend a Full Set
While a full set is a straightforward service, there are certain situations where it’s the best option for your clients.
1. First-Time Clients
For clients who are new to lash extensions, a full set is always recommended. This is the starting point for creating their ideal lash look. It’s also a great opportunity for you as a lash artist to understand their preferences in terms of curl, length, and volume.
What to Do:
- Assess the client’s natural lashes.
- Discuss their desired look and explain the different styles available.
- Choose the appropriate lash type based on their natural lashes and preferences (classic, hybrid, or volume).
2. Clients Who Haven’t Had Lashes for a Long Time
If a client has let their lashes grow out completely or hasn’t had a touch-up in months, a full set is the best way to reset their lash extensions. This ensures you’re starting with a fresh base and can apply extensions to all available natural lashes.
What to Do:
- Check for any damage or lash breakage from previous sets.
- Gently remove any old or grown-out extensions before applying the new full set.
- Make recommendations based on lash health and the client’s lifestyle (i.e., shorter, longer, or more voluminous lashes).
3. When a Client Wants a Drastic Change
If a client is looking for a completely new style, length, or volume (for example, transitioning from a natural look to a dramatic volume set), a full set allows you to create a completely fresh design and shape for them.
What to Do:
- Have a consultation with the client about their desired outcome.
- Help them choose the right curl, length, and volume to achieve their ideal look.
- Use the opportunity to guide them through the various options, especially if they’re making a significant change from classic to volume lashes.
When to Recommend a Lash Fill
A lash fill is a more common and cost-effective service for clients who already have a full set of lashes but want to maintain or refresh the look. However, there are several factors that will help you determine when to recommend a fill.
1. Clients Who Maintain Their Lash Appointments Regularly
For clients who get their lashes filled every 2-3 weeks (which is typically the recommended interval for lash fills), they’ll need a fill when about 50-70% of the extensions remain. This is a great option to maintain fullness without needing a full set every time.
What to Do:
- Assess how much shedding has occurred and how much natural lash growth has happened.
- Apply new extensions to fill in any sparse areas, while leaving existing extensions intact.
2. Clients Who Have Natural Lash Shedding
It’s natural for lashes to shed over time, and a fill ensures that any lost extensions are replaced. If your client’s natural lashes are in good condition, a fill will be more than sufficient to maintain the look of their extensions.
What to Do:
- Observe the health of the natural lashes. If they’re strong and healthy, a fill is the right option.
- Focus on replacing extensions in areas where the lashes have shed.
3. Clients Who Want to Maintain a Consistent Look
If a client loves their current set and just needs a maintenance refresh, a fill is the way to go. This option is particularly great for clients who are happy with the length, volume, and style of their current lashes but need to restore fullness.
What to Do:
- Refresh any areas where the lashes have naturally shed.
- Keep the original shape intact for the most part, unless the client expresses a desire for a minor tweak.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
While the decision to recommend a full set or a lash fill can be straightforward, there are some common mistakes that lash artists may make. Here’s how to avoid them:
1. Recommending a Fill Too Early
Sometimes, clients may ask for a fill when their lashes have shed too much, making a fill ineffective. If the client has less than 50% of their extensions left, it’s time for a full set.
What to Do:
- Always assess the condition of the client’s natural lashes and extensions. If too much shedding has occurred, gently guide them to a full set.
2. Applying a Full Set When a Fill is Enough
If a client’s lashes are still in great condition and just need a touch-up, applying a full set unnecessarily can damage the natural lashes by applying more extensions than needed.
What to Do:
- Be sure to assess the client’s natural lash health and the amount of shedding. If only a few extensions are missing, a fill is the better option.
FAQs or Pro Tips
How often should clients get a lash fill?
On average, clients should get a fill every 2-3 weeks to maintain the fullness of their lashes.
How do I know when a client needs a full set instead of a fill?
If the client’s lashes have lost more than 50% of their extensions, or if the extensions have grown out significantly, it’s time for a full set.
Can I switch a client’s lash style during a fill?
Yes, if the client wants a new style, length, or curl, you can make adjustments during their fill appointment.
Conclusion: Keep Your Clients’ Lashes Full and Beautiful
Knowing when to recommend a lash fill vs. a full set is essential for keeping your clients’ lashes looking fresh while maintaining lash health. By assessing your client’s lash condition, lifestyle, and preferences, you can make the best recommendation that will ensure they leave your studio feeling happy and confident.
At Aki Lashes, we offer high-quality lash products and professional training to help you become an expert in all types of lash extensions. Whether you’re looking to perfect your skills or upgrade your product selection, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to elevate your lash artistry? Shop our premium lash extensions and sign up for our training programs today to take your business to the next level!