In the world of eyelash extensions, the beauty of your work as a top lash artist or tech hinges not just on the application but also on the aftercare. As professionals in this glamorous field, we know that the longevity and aesthetic appeal of lash extensions are significantly impacted by how they are maintained. In this guide, we'll delve into the pivotal yet often overlooked aspect of eyelash extension care – brushing. Understanding the nuances of this simple practice can make a world of difference in the quality and durability of your lash work. So, let's explore together the fine art of keeping those lashes flawlessly fanned and fabulously fluttery.
Why Brush Your Eyelash Extensions?
Brushing eyelash extensions is more than a part of your daily lash care routine; it's a critical element of extension care that sustains their beauty and functionality. Here’s why it’s a non-negotiable part of the lash maintenance ritual:
Maintaining the Perfect Alignment: Just like natural hair, lash extensions can become tangled or misaligned. Regular brushing helps keep them neatly organised and oriented in their natural direction, ensuring they maintain that fresh, just-applied look.
Preventing Tangles and Clumps: Extensions, especially the fuller sets, are prone to tangling. This not only compromises their appearance but can also lead to discomfort for your clients. Brushing helps to prevent these tangles and keeps the lashes separated and smooth.
Enhancing Natural Shedding: Lash extensions are bonded to individual natural lashes, which have their own growth cycle. As natural lashes shed, brushing aids in the gentle removal of extensions that are no longer attached to a live lash, thereby preventing buildup and maintaining a clean lash line.
Boosting Client Satisfaction: A client’s satisfaction with their lash extensions extends beyond the salon. By educating them on the importance of brushing and how to do it correctly, you empower them to maintain the pristine look of their extensions, leading to greater satisfaction and loyalty.
Prolonging the Life of Extensions: Regular brushing can actually extend the life of eyelash extensions. By keeping them clean, well-aligned, and free from tangles, you reduce the risk of premature fallout and maintain their aesthetic quality for longer.
In the next sections, we'll dive into the how-to's of brushing, offering professional tips and insights to elevate your lash game!
Choosing the Right Brush
Selecting the ideal eyelash comb or brush for eyelash extensions is a crucial step in ensuring their longevity and maintaining their impeccable appearance, and there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure that you’re choosing the right tool.
Firstly, the lash brush used for eyelash extensions should have soft, gentle bristles. Hard or stiff bristles can damage the extensions or even the natural lashes. Brushes with fine, synthetic bristles are usually the best choice for eyelash comb, as they are delicate enough to glide through the extensions without pulling.
Similarly, the design of the brush plays a significant role. A mascara wand-style spoolie brush is often preferred by lash professionals. Its rounded shape and evenly distributed bristles are perfect for navigating through lash extensions, providing a smooth brushing experience.
Size matters when it comes to choosing the right brush for brushing lashes - opt for a brush size that allows for easy handling and manoeuvrability. A lash brush that's too large can be cumbersome, especially for detail work, while a too-small brush may not be efficient for brushing through longer or fuller lash sets.
Unsurprisingly, hygiene and maintenance is hugely important here. It’s crucial to keep the eyelash brush clean to prevent the transfer of bacteria or debris to the lashes. Choose a brush that's easy to clean and dries quickly. Disposable options can also be handy for ensuring hygiene.
For an ideal eyelash brush choice, consider our Lash Wands. These are specifically tailored for eyelash extensions, offering gentle care to maintain their perfect look. Their soft bristles and user-friendly design make them a great tool for both professionals and clients.
The Proper Brushing Technique
Brushing eyelash extensions correctly is as important as choosing the right eyelash comb. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you're doing it right:
- Gently place the brush at the tips of the lashes. Avoid starting at the root as this can cause unnecessary stress on the lash line.
- Carefully brush through the lashes with light, upward and outward strokes. This motion helps maintain the natural curvature of the extensions and keeps them from tangling.
- If you encounter tangles, resist the urge to pull or tug. Gently work through the tangle with minimal pressure. Remember, patience is key.
Advise clients to brush their extensions at least once a day, preferably in the morning. This helps remove any twists or misalignments that may have occurred during sleep. After brushing your lashes, inspect the lashes for any signs of wear or damage. This is also an ideal time to assess if the extensions need professional maintenance or touch-ups.
Providing your clients with the knowledge to properly care for their extensions at home will not only prolong the life of their lashes but also showcase your commitment to their overall satisfaction. By following these guidelines for selecting the right eyelash comb and employing proper brushing techniques, you can ensure that both you and your clients are equipped to maintain those beautiful lash extensions to their fullest potential.
When to Brush Eyelash Extensions
Knowing when to brush eyelash extensions is as crucial as knowing how to brush them. Here’s a guide on the optimal times to care for those delicate extensions:
Morning Routine: The best time to gently comb eyelash extensions is in the morning. Overnight, lashes can get a bit dishevelled. A gentle brushing session in the morning can realign them and ensure they look their best throughout the day.
After Cleansing: Always brush the extensions after they have been cleaned and are dry. This helps to both remove dirt and any residues and maintain their neat appearance. Remember to wait until the lashes are completely dry to avoid any damage.
Post Shower: Similar to after cleansing, it’s advisable to brush the extensions following a shower or swim, but only once they are completely dry. This helps in keeping them aligned and prevents tangling from moisture; brushing wet lash extensions can cause damage and weaken the bond of the extensions.
Before and After Makeup Application: Brushing before and applying mascara or makeup ensures that the extensions are perfectly prepped for any eye makeup. Post makeup, a quick brush with your lash wand can remove any stray makeup particles caught in the lashes.
As Needed Throughout the Day: For clients on the go, a quick lash brush can be helpful to refresh the look of the lashes, especially in windy conditions or after physical activities.
An important thing for clients to bear in mind is that when brushing eyelash extensions, it's quite normal to notice a few lashes shedding. This is a natural part of the lash lifecycle, where older lashes fall out to make way for new growth. Regular and proper eyelash brushing plays a crucial role in this process. Not only does it help in maintaining the alignment and preventing tangles, but it also ensures that your extensions stay looking fresh and perfectly positioned. By gently caring for their lashes with daily brushing, your clients will be actively contributing to the longevity and beauty of their eyelash extensions, keeping them looking as splendid as they were on the first day! Remember, a little care goes a long way in preserving the allure of lash extensions.
Caring for Your Eyelash Extensions Beyond Brushing
While brushing is a key component of eyelash extension care, it’s just one part of a comprehensive maintenance routine. Here’s what else you need to consider:
Proper Cleaning: Educate clients on the importance of regular and gentle cleaning of their eyelash extensions. Using a mild, oil-free cleanser helps to keep the lashes clean without compromising the adhesive.
Avoiding Harsh Products: Caution against the use of oil-based makeup and removers as they can weaken the bond of the lash adhesive. Recommend Belo Lash’s safe and effective products designed for use with extensions.
Sleeping Habits: Sleeping on the back or using a silk pillowcase can reduce the risk of tangling and pressure on the extensions, thereby prolonging their life. To learn more about this, see our blog on sleeping with lash extensions.
Regular Refills and Check-ups: Encourage regular appointments for refills and check-ups. This not only maintains the fullness of the lash set but also allows for the timely addressing of any issues.
Avoiding Physical Stress on Lashes: Advise against using mechanical eyelash curlers or rubbing eyes. Gentle handling of eyelashes is key to maintaining the integrity and appearance of the extensions.
By following these additional care steps, clients can ensure their eyelash extensions remain in top condition, complementing the efforts put into regular brushing.
Conclusion
Brushing your eyelash extensions is a simple yet essential practice for maintaining their beauty and longevity. By choosing the right tools, mastering the proper technique, and incorporating this practice into a broader care routine, you ensure that your lash work remains impeccable. Remember, the satisfaction and confidence of your clients are greatly influenced by the durability and appearance of their extensions.
If you have any further questions or need more information on eyelash extension care, feel free to get in touch with us. Our team at Belo Lash is always here to help you enhance your skills and knowledge. Your commitment to excellence in lash care is our top priority!