Minimizing Irritation in Your Lash Application

As a lash artist, one of the most common challenges you might face is minimizing irritation during lash appointments. Often, what seems like a lash adhesive allergy can be due to other factors that can be easily adjusted. Understanding these subtle differences can help you provide a more comfortable experience for your clients and reduce the likelihood of irritation. Let's explore some key factors that can be adjusted to minimize irritation and how they relate to lash adhesive allergies. 

WEARING CONTACTS DURING AN APPOINTMENT

One common issue that can create irritation during lash appointments is when clients wear contact lenses. The fumes from the lash adhesive can get trapped under the contacts, leading to discomfort and sometimes even a reaction that mimics a lash adhesive allergy. This situation can be particularly problematic because the symptoms - such as redness, itching, and a burning sensation - are very similar to those of an actual allergic reaction to the adhesive. As a result, it can be challenging to determine whether the irritation is due to the adhesive itself or the contact lenses trapping the fumes.

To alleviate this issue, it's best to advise your clients to remove their contact lenses before the appointment. This simple step can significantly reduce irritation and ensure a more pleasant experience for your clients. Additionally, it allows you to work more effectively without worrying about the lenses shifting or causing further irritation.

It's also a good idea to inform your clients about the potential for irritation when wearing contact lenses during a lash appointment. By educating them on this matter, you can help them make informed decisions and take proactive steps to avoid discomfort. Encourage them to bring a case and solution to store their contact lenses safely during the appointment. This not only helps in reducing irritation but also ensures that their contact lenses remain clean and safe for reuse.

ENSURING YOUR WORKSPACE IS HUMID ENOUGH

The effectiveness and safety of your lash adhesive are highly dependent on the temperature and humidity levels in your workspace. If the humidity is too low, the adhesive will dry and cure slower which can release more fumes, irritating the eyes and skin. On the contrary, if the humidity is too high, the adhesive may dry and cure too quickly, leading to poor retention. Aim to keep your workspace within the ideal humidity range for your specific adhesive, typically between 40% and 60%. This will help minimize fumes and reduce the risk of irritation that might be mistaken for a lash adhesive allergy.

USING A FAN TO DISSIPATE FUMES

Proper ventilation is crucial during lash applications, especially when working in a smaller space. Using a small fan to dissipate fumes away from the client's face can significantly reduce irritation. The fan should be positioned to blow the fumes away from the client's eyes, not directly at them. This simple addition to your setup can make a huge difference in minimizing irritation and preventing what might seem like a lash adhesive allergy. Remember, this will not dry or cure your adhesive - this is only to allow a more comfortable experience for your client.

PROPER UNDEREYE PAD PLACEMENT

Undereye pads are essential for protecting the skin under your client's eyes while keeping the lower lashes out of the way while you’re applying extensions. However, if they shift during the appointment, they can slowly shimmy up into your client's eye. If the undereye pad rubs against your client's eye during the appointment - this will irritate the eye, causing a red line along the lower part of the eye. Regularly check the placement of the undereye pads throughout the appointment to ensure they haven't moved (especially if you and your client have been chatty). This simple precaution can prevent the pad from rubbing against the eye, as well as unnecessary exposure to fumes which might be misinterpreted as a lash adhesive allergy.

If you’re looking for a secure, yet gentle undereye pad - look no further! Onlokk is infused with just the right amount of gel to guarantee a completely non-slip hold, while simultaneously having the perfect consistency for repositioning during an appointment.

ENSURING EYES ARE CLOSED DURING THE APPOINTMENT

One of the most critical factors in preventing irritation during a lash appointment is ensuring that the client's eyes remain closed throughout the entire session. Even a slight opening of the eyes can allow fumes from the lash adhesive to seep in, causing discomfort and irritation. Regularly check to make sure the client's eyes are fully closed and gently remind them to keep them shut if they start to open. Keep in mind, that sometimes your client doesn’t realize or feel that their eyes are open and they can’t control it. A few ways you can help your client keep their eyes closed are:

• Use a gentle tape to maneuver the eyelid.
  

• Apply either an “undereye” pad, foam tape, etc - over the client's eyelid. This will be an added weight which can help keep the eyes closed, while also blocking the light which some clients find irritating.
  

• Keep talking to a minimum, encourage your client to relax and take a nap if possible.

PROPER USE OF TAPE

 
Tape is often used to secure the bottom lashes against the undereye pads (you know, like a sandwich). However, if not applied correctly, the tape can irritate the eyes by pulling downwards on the skin, which can allow fumes to seep in and reach the eyes. Ensure that the tape is applied properly and does not pull on the skin. Furthermore, if you're using tape such as Wünderstrips to maneuver the eyelid, be careful not to lift the lid too much, as this can also allow fumes from the adhesive to seep in. By applying tape correctly and ensuring the client's eyes remain closed, you can help prevent unnecessary exposure to adhesive fumes and reduce the risk of irritation.

ADDITIONAL TIPS TO MINIMIZE IRRITATION

In addition to the factors mentioned above, there are a few more tips that can help minimize irritation during lash applications:

Use High-Quality Lash Adhesive: Investing in a high-quality lash adhesive with low fume emissions can make a big difference in the comfort and safety of your clients. Revoläshion offers two exceptional adhesives: Omnia, our clear adhesive, and Kaio, our black adhesive. Both of these products are specifically designed to minimize fume emissions, ensuring a safer and more pleasant experience for your clients. With these high-quality adhesives, you can significantly reduce the risk of irritation and allergic reactions, providing your clients with beautiful, long-lasting lashes without the discomfort. 

Patch Testing: Before applying lashes, especially if there is a concern of a possible allergic reaction, perform a patch test to check for any allergic reactions. This can help identify potential issues before the full application and prevent unnecessary discomfort.

TIP: contrary to what some of us were told in 2013 - we don’t apply adhesive directly onto the skin for a patch test! Instead, bring your client in for a quick appointment and apply 5-10 extensions per eye, keep the lengths short and the curl on the low side - so these extensions blend in with their natural lashes. See how your client feels after 24-48 hours. If they feel fine, no allergies, then you can proceed with an appointment for a full set. If the worst happens and your client is showing signs of an allergic reaction, have them come back in and use the “banana peel” lash removal method to gently remove the few remaining extensions. Never give medical advice and suggest they follow up with a medical professional for the next steps or medication if needed.  

By addressing these factors and making necessary adjustments, you can significantly reduce irritation during each lash appointment and provide a more comfortable experience for your clients. Remember, what might seem like a lash adhesive allergy can often be mitigated by ensuring proper conditions and techniques are in place. With these tips, you can help your clients enjoy beautiful, irritation-free lashes!