Let’s be real—one of the biggest mistakes a lash artist can make is skipping or rushing through a consultation. You might think, “I know what I’m doing; I’ve lashed hundreds of clients.” But here’s the thing: every client is different. Their eye shape, natural lashes, lifestyle, and even their personal style all play a role in creating a set that looks chef’s kiss perfect.
A proper consultation isn’t just about asking what length or curl they want—it’s about setting expectations, preventing problems, and making sure your client leaves obsessed with their lashes. Let’s break it down.
So why Lash Consultations matter
Not Every Style Fits Every Client – Your client might walk in saying they want “mega volume” when their natural lashes are barely hanging on. A consultation helps you educate them on what’s actually possible while keeping their natural lashes healthy.
Avoiding Disappointment – Ever had a client gasp at the mirror (and not in a good way)? A consultation prevents that. By showing them lash maps, explaining lengths, and even using a lash mirror to demo how their eyes will look, you make sure there are no surprises.
Allergies & Sensitivities – Some clients have no idea they might react to lash adhesives. A patch test during a consultation can save you from a panicked phone call later.
Retention Starts Here – Clients need to know how to care for their lashes. Use this time to go over proper aftercare and set them up for long-lasting results.
Lash retention is one of the most crucial factors in running a successful lash business. If your clients’ lash extensions don’t last, they won’t be happy—and unhappy clients don’t return. No retention means no repeat customers, and no repeat customers mean your business struggles to grow. Proper retention techniques not only improve the longevity of lash extensions but also build trust and credibility with your clients, ensuring they come back for refills instead of looking for another lash artist.
But great retention isn’t just about your application—it’s also about how well your client takes care of their lashes. As a lash artist, it’s your responsibility to educate them on proper aftercare and how to maximize the longevity of their extensions. Teaching them the right cleaning techniques, which products to avoid, and how to handle their lashes with care will make a huge difference in how long their lashes last. When clients see their extensions staying full and beautiful for weeks, they’ll trust you, stay loyal, and keep coming back. But lets get back to client consultations, if you want to learn more about how to maximise your clients retention check out our course here.
What to Cover in Your Lash Consultation
Eye Shape & Lash Health – When you sit down with your client, take a good look at their natural lashes. Are they straight, curly, sparse, or thick? This helps you decide on the best lash extensions for them. For example, if their lashes are naturally straight, a curlier extension can give them a nice lift. If they have thicker lashes, they can usually handle more volume without a problem. Also, don’t skip checking their lash health—if their lashes are weak or damaged, go for something lightweight and safe to keep their natural lashes happy.
Style Preferences – This is where you really need to communicate with your client. Show them pictures, lash maps, or even a mirror demo to make sure you’re on the same page. Everyone’s idea of a “natural look” is different—some think it means light and wispy, while others expect a full set with noticeable volume. Make sure you get a clear idea of what they want so you can tailor the look to their expectations. Make sure you check out our 📕 Lash Client Consultation & Design Book if you want to offer a professional consultation.
Lifestyle Considerations – A client’s daily routine can make a huge difference in how well their lashes last. Ask about things like working out, wearing glasses, or even if they tend to rub their eyes a lot. If they’re super active, they might need a strong adhesive and a style that can hold up against sweat. If they wear glasses, the lash length needs to work with their frames so they’re not constantly brushing against them. Taking these little details into account will make sure their lashes fit seamlessly into their lifestyle.
Medical History & Sensitivities – This step is all about safety. Ask if they have allergies, especially to lash glue ingredients, and whether they’ve had any reactions in the past. Also, check for any eye conditions like dry eye syndrome or blepharitis, which could affect how their lashes hold up. The more you know, the better you can choose the right products to keep them comfortable and irritation-free.
Aftercare Expectations – Before they leave your chair, make sure they know how to take care of their new lashes. Explain why cleaning their lashes regularly is key to keeping them looking good and lasting longer. Go over what products to avoid (like anything oil-based) and give them tips for things like swimming or working out. Let them know how often they’ll need fills to keep their set looking fresh. When clients know what to expect, they’ll take better care of their lashes and be happier with the results.
And the last thing I want to talk to about is: Prepping for the Consultation & Appointment
Before your client even walks through the door, set the tone for a smooth experience:
✅ Have a Clean, Organized Space – No one wants to lie down in a messy room. Make sure your setup is neat, your tools are sanitized, and your lash bed is comfortable. A clean and welcoming environment not only looks professional but also helps clients feel at ease.
✅ Prep a Consultation Form – A digital lash client record book with key questions (allergies, style preference, previous lash history) keeps things professional and ensures you don’t miss anything important. Having this form ready also saves time and allows you to quickly assess what’s best for your client.
✅ Stock Visual Aids – Photos, lash maps, or even sample lashes on a mannequin head can help clients understand what to expect. This is especially helpful for first-time clients who might be unsure about the different styles and lengths available.
✅ Set the Mood – Creating a relaxing atmosphere can make a huge difference. Soft background music, calming scents, and a cozy blanket for your client can enhance their experience. This small effort can leave a lasting impression and turn first-time clients into loyal ones.
✅ Confirm the Appointment & Pre-Care Instructions – Send a reminder with instructions like arriving makeup-free, avoiding caffeine (to reduce eye twitching), and coming in with clean lashes. A simple text or email reminder can help prevent last-minute issues and ensure the appointment goes smoothly.
✅ Mentally Prepare – Each client is unique, so take a moment before they arrive to review their consultation form, refresh yourself on any past services they’ve received, and think about how to best meet their needs. Being prepared helps build confidence and ensures a more personalized experience.
And lastly my final thoughts..
A proper consultation isn’t just an extra step—it’s the foundation of a great lash experience. Taking that time to educate, personalize, and set expectations will make your work easier, keep clients happy, and build trust for long-term retention.
So next time a client sits in your chair, don’t just dive into lashing—talk, educate, and make sure you’re both on the same page. Trust me, your business (and your sanity) will thank you!
Thank you for taking the time to read this blog! I hope you found it helpful and that it gives you more confidence in running smooth and effective lash consultations. Remember, the little details make all the difference in building trust with your clients and keeping them coming back. If you’re looking for an easy way to stay organized and keep track of your client’s preferences, don’t forget to check out our Lash Client Record Book—it’s a game-changer for any lash artist!
With love,
Cintia
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