Lash Refill Recipe: The Steps, Products and Tips for a Lash Refill

Welcome back, lash friends! In this comprehensive guide, we're going to delve into the intricacies of performing a lash refill or lash fill. A lash refill is a crucial part of your lash extension services, and mastering it is essential for maintaining a loyal clientele. When your clients return for a refill, it's your opportunity to ensure their lash extensions remain healthy, beautiful, and long-lasting. So, let's explore the key steps and techniques to ensure you provide the best lash refill experience.

Understanding the Lash Refill Process

Before we dive into the specifics of performing a lash refill, it's important to have a clear understanding of the process. A lash refill, also known as a fill or touch-up, is a maintenance procedure that focuses on replenishing and replacing any extensions that have naturally shed or fallen out since the last appointment. This ensures that your client's lash line remains full, lush, and consistently beautiful. The frequency of lash refills varies, but it is generally recommended every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the client's natural lash growth cycle and preferences.

Ingredients for Our Lash Refill Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workstation

A clean and organized workstation is essential for a successful lash refill. Follow these steps:

1.1. Sanitize Tools and Surfaces: Disinfect all tools and surfaces to maintain a sterile environment and prevent the spread of bacteria.

1.2. Organize Supplies: Lay out all necessary tools and products, including tweezers, adhesive, lash extensions, and eye pads.

1.3. Lighting: Ensure proper lighting to avoid straining your eyes and to work with precision.

1.4. Personal Hygiene: Wear comfortable, lint-free clothing and ensure your hair is pulled back to prevent any interference during the procedure.

Step 2: Consultation and Assessment

2.1. Warm Welcome: Start with a warm and friendly greeting to make your client feel comfortable and valued.

2.2. Client Updates: Inquire about any changes or concerns since their last appointment. Have they experienced any adverse reactions or discomfort?

2.3. Lash and Eye Assessment: Carefully assess the current state of their lash extensions. Look for gaps, loose extensions, or any potential issues. Look for any signs of irritation or infection of the eye prior to beginning.

2.4. Style Discussion: Discuss your client's desired lash style. Do they want to maintain their current look, make adjustments, or try something new?

2.5. Health Considerations: Take note of any allergies, sensitivities, or medical conditions that may affect the lash refill process.

2.6. Recommendations: Based on the assessment, explain the recommended refill volume and style to the client. Set clear expectations.

Step 3: Assess Existing Extensions

Before proceeding, carefully examine the client's existing lash extensions to determine the extent of the refill needed:

3.1. Identify Gaps: Identify areas with gaps or sparse lashes where extensions have shed.

3.2. Check Bonding: Assess the bonding of existing extensions. Loose or poorly bonded extensions will require special attention.

Step 4: Remove Loose Extensions

4.1. Gentle Removal: Using precision tweezers, gently remove any loose or outgrown lashes by using the banana peel method. Once removed, you will have a perfectly clean canvas for the refill. Watch our video here to see how its done:

Note: Be extremely cautious not to damage or pull on the client's natural lashes during this process.

Step 5: Cleanse and Prime

Prepare the natural lashes for the refill by cleansing and priming:

5.1. Gentle Cleansing: Cleanse the natural lashes with a lash extension-safe cleanser such as Prolong Lash Shampoo  to remove any oils or debris that might affect adhesive bonding.

Note: Use warm water during this step as it will help open the pores of the natural lash and help with retention.

Step 6: Apply New Extensions

Now, it's time to apply new extensions and restore the fullness of your client's lash line:

6.1. Select the Right Extensions: Choose extensions that match the length, curl, and diameter of the existing lash extensions and are safe for the client's natural lashes.

6.2. Adhesive Application: Dip the extension in adhesive, ensuring it's evenly coated without an excess blob of glue at the end.  Watch here: 

6.3. Precise Application: Carefully attach the extension to an isolated natural lash, maintaining a 1-2 mm distance from the lash line.

6.4. Isolation: Ensure proper isolation between natural lashes to prevent them from sticking together.

6.5. Repeat the Process: Continue applying extensions, alternating between eyes, until you've achieved the desired volume and style.

Step 7: Check for Balance and Symmetry

Take a moment to evaluate and adjust for balance and symmetry:

7.1. Use a Handheld Mirror: Use a handheld mirror to assess the overall look, checking for gaps, unevenness, or inconsistencies.

7.2. Make Precise Corrections: If necessary, make precise corrections by adding or removing extensions to create a harmonious lash line.

Step 8: Final Bonding and Drying

Secure the newly applied lash extensions and ensure they last:

8.1. Fan the fumes away: Use a fan or air blower to help remove the fumes away from the clients eyes.

8.2. Mascara Wand: Gently brush through the lashes with a clean mascara wand to separate and organize them.

8.3. Advisory: Advise the client to keep their eyes closed for a few minutes to allow the adhesive fumes to fully dissipate.

Step 9: Nurturing Client Relationships

As a lash artist, your relationship with your clients goes beyond just the application of lash extensions. It's essential to maintain open communication and show that you care about their overall experience. Here's how to nurture client relationships during a lash refill:

9.1. Educate and Advise: Take this opportunity to educate your client about proper lash care between appointments. Advise them on how to protect and maintain their extensions, including avoiding oil-based products and excessive rubbing.

9.2. Offer Product Recommendations: Recommend lash-safe products, such as lash cleansers, to help your clients care for their extensions at home. This not only adds value to your service but also ensures better retention.

Step 10: Addressing Common Concerns

During a lash refill, it's not uncommon for clients to express concerns or ask questions. Here are some common concerns and how to address them:

10.1. Excessive Shedding: Some clients may worry about excessive shedding of their natural lashes. Reassure them that a certain amount of natural lash shedding is normal and part of the lash growth cycle. If the amount seems abnormal, then this is time to reflect back on your technique and look for errors that can be improved.

10.2. Retention Issues: If a client is experiencing retention issues, discuss possible causes, such as oil-based products or excessive moisture, and offer solutions to address these issues.

Step 11: Post-Refill Care Instructions

After completing the lash refill, provide your client with clear post-refill care instructions. This ensures that they continue to care for their lash extensions properly between appointments:

11.1. Gentle Cleansing: Instruct clients on how to gently cleanse their lashes with a lash extension-safe cleanser such as prolong lash shampoo to remove any build up or residue.

11.2. No Rubbing or Pulling: Emphasize the importance of not rubbing or pulling on their lashes and recommend using a clean mascara wand for daily maintenance.

11.3. Follow-Up Appointments: Remind clients of the recommended timeframe for their next lash refill, typically every 2 to 4 weeks.

Step 12: Continuous Education

The beauty industry, including lash artistry, is constantly evolving. As a lash artist, it's essential to stay updated with the latest trends, techniques, and products. Consider enrolling in advanced training courses and attending industry events to enhance your skills and knowledge.

The finale

Voilà! You've just successfully refilled your client’s lashes that's bound to satisfy their cravings. Performing a lash refill is a skill that combines artistry and precision. As a lash artist, your clients trust you to enhance their beauty and boost their confidence. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide and paying attention to the finer details, you can ensure that your clients leave your studio with stunning, long-lasting lash extensions every time they come in for a refill.

Remember that each client is unique, and their lash needs may vary. Tailoring your approach to their specific preferences and addressing any concerns they have will set you apart as an exceptional lash artist. Building strong client relationships, offering expert advice, and maintaining a commitment to continuous education will contribute to your success in the lash industry.

So, embrace your role as a lash artist, hone your skills, and delight your clients with lash refills that will have them singing your praises after they leave! In doing so, you'll not only excel in your career but also leave a lasting impression on those who trust you. Happy lashing!