As a lash artist, there’s nothing more frustrating than seeing your clients leave your studio with gorgeous lashes, only for them to return weeks later with less than stellar retention. Lash retention issues are common, but understanding why lashes don’t last for some clients can help you pinpoint the root cause and implement effective solutions. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced professional, mastering the art of lash retention is essential for client satisfaction and business growth.
In this blog, we’ll discuss why some clients have poor retention and provide best retention tips to help you improve the longevity of your lash extensions. With these insights, you’ll not only be able to tackle retention challenges but also enhance your reputation as a professional lash artist. Plus, we’ll highlight how Aki Lashes products can help support long-lasting lashes.
Why Lash Retention is So Important
Lash retention is directly tied to customer satisfaction. When lashes shed prematurely or don't last, clients might feel disappointed or frustrated, leading to a drop in repeat business. As a lash artist, retention is one of the most critical aspects of your service. A client who leaves your studio with beautifully applied extensions but returns with gaps or shedding is a lost opportunity for future appointments.
Key Reasons Poor Retention Happens:
- Lash Adhesive Issues: Poor adhesion leads to faster shedding.
- Improper Application: If the extensions aren’t properly applied to the natural lash, they won’t stay in place.
- Client Lifestyle: Clients who don’t follow aftercare instructions or engage in activities that damage their extensions can experience poor retention.
So, why do lashes not last for some clients? Let’s break it down.
Common Reasons for Poor Lash Retention
Understanding the cause of retention issues is the first step toward fixing them. Below are some of the most common culprits:
1. Inadequate Lash Adhesive Bonding
The bond between the extension and the natural lash is essential for lash retention. If the adhesive isn't curing properly, or the wrong adhesive is used for the client’s lash type, retention issues will occur.
What You Can Do:
- Use high-quality adhesives that are formulated for the client’s lash type and environment.
- Ensure that the glue is allowed to cure for the appropriate amount of time before clients expose their lashes to moisture.
- Avoid using too much or too little glue. Consistency is key!
Aki Lashes’ adhesive products offer excellent retention, designed to hold up in a variety of conditions, ensuring your clients enjoy longer-lasting results.
2. Incorrect Lash Application
Improper application can lead to extensions falling off prematurely. This includes poor isolation, incorrect extension length, or not securing the extension properly to the natural lash.
What You Can Do:
- Ensure proper isolation of each natural lash to avoid sticking multiple lashes together.
- Match extension lengths with the natural lashes' strength and thickness. Too long or heavy of a lash can lead to premature shedding.
- Take your time to apply the extension properly, ensuring it is placed with precision for lasting results.
3. Client Lifestyle & Aftercare
Sometimes, client habits or lack of proper aftercare can cause poor retention. Clients who use oil-based makeup removers, rub their eyes, or don’t clean their lashes regularly are prone to quicker lash fallout.
What You Can Do:
- Educate clients on proper lash aftercare, including avoiding oil-based products, keeping lashes clean, and not touching or rubbing their eyes.
- Provide an aftercare kit with a gentle cleanser, brush, and sealant. These tools help maintain healthy lashes and improve retention.
4. Natural Lash Growth Cycle
Everyone’s natural lash growth cycle is different, so some clients may shed lashes more quickly than others. This can be particularly noticeable if they are in a heavy shedding phase.
What You Can Do:
- Let clients know about the natural lash cycle and how it impacts the retention of extensions.
- Recommend regular fill appointments (every 2-3 weeks) to maintain the look and keep their lashes full.
5. Environmental Factors
Humidity, climate, and even personal habits such as excessive sweating or exposure to water can affect lash retention. If the environment isn’t conducive to the curing process, retention may suffer.
What You Can Do:
- Monitor the temperature and humidity in your lash room. These factors can significantly impact the effectiveness of the adhesive.
- Advise clients to avoid activities like swimming, saunas, or excessive sweating for the first 24-48 hours after the lash application.
Best Retention Tips for Lash Artists
Now that we’ve covered the common causes of poor retention, let’s look at some actionable tips to ensure your clients' lashes last as long as possible:
1. Use the Right Products
Choose high-quality lash extension products designed for longer retention. Whether it’s adhesive, cleansers, or sealants, using premium products like those offered by Aki Lashes will ensure the best possible results.
2. Focus on Precision and Technique
Improper application techniques can lead to poor retention. Practice correct isolation, proper adhesive placement, and accurate lash mapping to ensure the extension stays securely attached to the natural lash.
3. Offer Education and Aftercare Support
Proper aftercare is just as important as application. Provide each client with an aftercare guide, and encourage them to invest in products that will protect their extensions. You could even offer lash aftercare kits as an additional product line.
Aki Lashes provides effective, client-friendly aftercare products designed to enhance lash retention and support your client’s lash journey.
4. Adjust to Client's Lash Type
Not all lashes are created equal. Pay attention to the client’s natural lash condition and adjust your approach accordingly. Some clients may need more delicate extensions or gentler application techniques.
5. Provide Regular Lash Fills
Encourage your clients to book regular lash fills every 2-3 weeks to maintain a full look. This will also give you an opportunity to check for any issues and ensure their lashes are still in great condition.
Common Mistakes Lash Artists Make & How to Avoid Them
1. Using Low-Quality Adhesives
Cheap, low-quality adhesive can lead to quick shedding. Be sure to always invest in quality glue that has been tried and tested.
How to Avoid:
- Only use adhesives that are designed for lash extensions and are compatible with the environment of your studio.
2. Not Properly Isolating Lashes
Lash isolation is key to good retention. Without it, extensions will stick together, causing clumps and premature shedding.
How to Avoid:
- Focus on isolating each natural lash properly before applying the extension. Consider using isolation tweezers that make the process easier.
3. Ignoring Client’s Lifestyle Needs
Some clients might unknowingly be affecting the longevity of their lashes due to their lifestyle, such as using oily products or rubbing their eyes.
How to Avoid:
- Have a thorough consultation with your clients before application. Learn about their daily habits and recommend the best aftercare practices based on their routine.
Conclusion
Lash retention issues can arise from many factors, but with the right tools, techniques, and education, you can provide your clients with long-lasting, beautiful lashes. By using Aki Lashes premium products, focusing on proper application, and educating your clients on the importance of aftercare, you’ll help them maintain their extensions and keep them coming back for more.
Best retention tips include using quality adhesives, offering regular fills, and ensuring that both you and your clients understand how to keep the lashes in top condition.
Ready to improve your lash retention and grow your business? Shop Aki Lashes for high-quality products or sign up for our training to learn advanced techniques that will set you apart in the lash industry.