A Haul of Must-Have Items for New Lash Artist

If you’re embarking on a career as a Lash Artist building your lash business, you’ll likely be researching the market and learning from industry experts. You’ll discover that delivering top-notch customer service is key to becoming a recognized Lash Master in the industry. When getting started, you will need to choose equipment and supplies that do your work justice and reassure your clients of the quality of your products and service.

As a seasoned Lash Artist with a wealth of experience, having performed thousands of new lash applications, I’ve curated a list of must-have items for new Lash Artists. This guide, backed by my extensive experience, is not just designed but crafted to provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate the overwhelming choices you must make when building your Lash Extension toolkit. This blog is here to reassure you and help you fast-track your selection of the right and supplies.

Plus, you can listen to the latest episode of Aussie Lashwives, where Jodi and Alicia dive into the cutting-edge tools every lash artist needs to thrive:

Your Master Tool – Tweezers

Tweezers are the essential eyelash extension tools for all Lash Artists; they are virtually an extension of our hands. As Lash Artists, we don't just apply lashes; we create art!  We develop the skill to use both hands with remarkable dexterity and precision. The work we do demands meticulous attention to detail, requiring intense focus on the precise placement of each lash extension. To achieve this artistry, we need the best quality tweezers that are lightweight, flexible, and ergonomically designed for both application and removal.

The variety in tweezer designs is also significant, with options ranging from straight to curved to boot styles, each offering different angles. It's important to experiment with various styles and shapes to find the ones that suit your technique and comfort the best. Effective tweezers should facilitate smooth work along the lash line and support your precision placement without tiring your hands.

My professional tip from experience is to invest in several spares when you finally find the tweezers you love. Having at least two backup pairs will save you from panic if you accidentally drop or damage your tweezers during a client appointment!

Selecting the Right Lash Extensions

The variety of lash extension fibres, styles, lengths, and thicknesses available on the market can be overwhelming, especially if you’re a newcomer to the industry. Lash brands market lash extensions as synthetic, mink, silk, and faux mink in different lengths, curls, and thicknesses, leaving you with a lot of questions: What’s the difference? Which fibre is best? Which curls are most popular? How many sizes, lengths, and curls do I need to stock? It's completely understandable to feel lost in this sea of options!

Let's start with lash fibers, which offer overwhelming choices when setting up your lash business. Lash fibers like mink, silk, and faux mink are often just fine synthetic fibers with clever marketing to make them sound classy.

To get straight to the point, the lash industry primarily uses synthetic fiber thread for lashes and fans. The newest technology being utilized is PBT, which produces lash extension fibers known as "thermoplastic fibers." These new fibers are synthetic and semi-crystalline, and they were developed in Korea. Knowing this, you can confidently look for these standards in your lash extensions.

While mink, silk, and faux mink lash fibers exist, my experience in using them over the years proved to me that they don't live up to the hype. These delicate fibers struggle to withstand the daily life of an eyelash wearer. They lose their curl and require more maintenance. On the other hand, fine synthetic fibers are more durable, tend to hold their curl, and better endure the rigors of daily wear and tear. So, when it comes to choosing lash fibers, remember that practicality and durability are key, and synthetic fibers and evolving PBT technology tick these boxes.

So, with the mystery of eyelash extension fibers explained, let’s examine the lash extension curls, sizes, and thicknesses available and identify the most popular for you to include in your kit.

1.Selecting which Lash Curls to stock

As the industry evolves, lash manufacturers are getting more and more creative with their lash curl categories, so now we’re faced with selecting from the subtle style created by the B curl, J curl, or I curl. The dramatic curve of the C curl, D curl, or U curl. The uplifting capability of the L and L+ curl, or you could opt for the beginner-friendly EZ-J, EZ-B, EZ- C curl, or the EZ D curl, is only a sample of what’s available on the market. No wonder new Lash Artists are confused.  

To narrow down your selection, it's safe to say that if you stock the popular curls like the B, C, D, L, and M curls, you’ll be covered. These curls transition from a subtle curve to a more dramatic curl to cover most client design needs.

 2. Most Popular Lash Sizes and Thicknesses

While lash lengths are available between 5mm and 18mm, commonly used lengths fall broadly into three categories: short, medium, and long. So, if your client requires a short lash application to thicken their natural lash line, the 5-8 mm lashes will be useful to have on hand. These lengths can also be used in the inner eye of the lash map.

Medium Lash Extensions, or 9-12 mm, are hands down the most in-demand and most used sizes, so they are a core part of every lash artist's toolkit.

If a client lash map requires drama, you will reach 13-16 mm. These can be used in the center or outer corners of clients' eyes to create real drama.

Again, the choice is overwhelming when it comes to lash thicknesses, which are available in weights ranging from 0.03 to 0.30. So, if you stick to the most popular thicknesses, then for a traditional set of lashes, it’s 0.10-0.15, and fan thickness will start from 0.03. 

3. Special Occasion Lashes

Then, you have Colored Lash Extensions for that special occasion. These can work well when mixed along the lash line with traditional lash extensions. They can highlight your eye color or match them with an outfit to add a touch of glamour.

You may like to experiment with the newly launched “Ballet Lash Extensions.” These three-dimensional curly wave lash extensions are probably not for every occasion, but you may like to try your artistic flair for the Halloween season to showcase their spooky wavey style.

4. New Innovative Promade Fans

New technologies seem to come out daily in this industry, making it difficult for the hard-working Lash Artist to keep up with advancements. Now we have Promade Fans; yes, you read that right! Not pre-made, but Promade fans are innovative lash fans using what they call “wrapping technology” to wrap around natural lashes, similar to handmade Russian volume fans. These fans feature a narrow, long stem base to create a dense lash line, offering improved retention and simplifying application. They have slightly wider bases than traditional fans for better attachment and are bonded 1-6mm above the base to assist better adhesion of each fiber. These fans are made from thermoplastic known as PBT (polybutylene Terephthalate), which is a synthetic semi-crystalline thermoplastic developed in Korea. 

Lash Glue (Lash Adhesive)

Lash glue is the most important element of your toolkit, outside of your tweezers. It’s also the most challenging to select because the only way to determine exactly how lash glue performs for you is to try it out. That means that you’ll need to find willing participants to help you assess a range of lash glues to find the one that works best for you in terms of ease of application for your level of experience, durability and bonding power, responsiveness of the drying time, allergy considerations and client sensitivity, viscosity, humidity rating, and shelf life, to name a few.

We’re now being introduced to the new Super Bonder Technology. Some of these bonders claim they increase retention by up to 30%. They cure instantly, sealing in those adhesive fumes, which is great for clients who struggle with irritation from traditional lash glue. With all these benefits, this new Super Bonder is your future go-to lash glue partner.

If that sounds like a lot, it is! You’ll be pleased to know that if you select a well-known and reputable lash suppliers, then they have already done that hard work for you. So, contact them, describe your situation and level of experience, and they will guide you along your lash glue selection process. For more information on sourcing glue, you may be interested in reading our other blog.

ANTI GLARE Lash Tiles

Anti-glare tiles are a great eyelash extension tool as the original lash tiles have a glossy surface, which tends to reflect the overhead lighting while you’re working. That means constantly adjusting the angle of our tile and adjusting your line of sight to the client's eyes to avoid glare and distraction.  These new anti-glare lash tiles are a great addition to your tool kit. They are on the market with an ani-glare finish and generally come with a non-slip base or feet to help provide stability while you work. You can find them in a range of sizes to suit your working style.

Lash Style Design Assistants – Lash Petals

This ingenious little change to the traditional lash pad creates what’s being referred to as the “Lash Petal,” This shape allows you to practice your styles or create a more realistic lash board. They are a great way to display your eyelash styles to your clients and are far more realistic as practice boards due to the curve mimicking an eye shape.

Great Aftercare is Critical

Stocking aftercare in your tool kit is not just a “nice to have.” It’s critical to your reputation as a Lash Artist. Lack of efficacious lash care leads to clients losing their lash extensions early, damage to the natural lash line, and can lead to infections. Too often, when one of these occurs, clients are quick to blame shoddy workmanship for the problem. So, to eliminate that knee-jerk reaction and protect your brand, you need to not only stock a great lash shampoo but also educate your clients on effective lash aftercare and maintenance. Prolong Lash created a game-changing aftercare range designed to address the unique needs of lash extensions and skin.

Here's why the Prolong Lash Aftercare Range should be a staple in every Lash Artist's toolkit:

Lash Cleanser Concentrate

Prolong Lash Cleanser revolutionized the lash industry by being the first to provide a solution that cleanses and extends the lifespan of lash extensions. This pH-balanced, oil-free formula is ophthalmologically tested; it’s gentle on the eyes and all skin types, ensuring a deep clean without compromising lashes, eyes, or sensitive skin.

The cleanser concentrate is designed to be diluted, allowing Lash Artists worldwide to create their own brand of foaming pump bottles. The Prolong Cleanser is also available in a pre-mixed formula for those wanting the convenience of not diluting the product.

Either way, Prolong Lash Cleanser is trusted by Lash Artists and clients in over 80 countries: it’s a must-have for maintaining beautiful lashes and promoting and protecting your brand.

Hydrating Under Eye Serum

Clients often seek permission from their Lash Artist to use their favorite eye serums, but not all serums are lash-friendly. Prolong Lash's Under Eye Hydrating Serum, enriched with hyaluronic acid, provides intense hydration on the delicate eye area without harming lashes. Suitable for all skin types, this serum keeps the under-eye area supple and hydrated, making it a safe and effective recommendation for your clients. The Hydrating Under Eye Serum is also available in the handy sachet form and adds a wonderful post-lash application value-add for clients at the end of their lash appointment.

Oil-Free Eyeliner

If you're looking for the perfect partner for your client's eyelash extensions, the Prolong Lash Oil-Free Eyeliner is your go-to. It features a precise felt tip for achieving a flawless liquid line, and the intense black pigment creates a satin finish and the perfect line. Being water-based, it’s easy to remove, so it’s kind to your lash extensions.

Formulated specifically for eyelash extensions, Prolong Lash's lightweight aftercare range ensures that skin feels clean and fresh. With added antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s the perfect aftercare solution for all skin types.

UV Lashes

UV Lashes are the latest advancement in eyelash extension application. This cutting-edge technology combines traditional techniques with modern UV adhesive, promising faster, stronger, and safer applications.

UV Lashes use a specialized adhesive that requires ultraviolet (UV) light to cure. Unlike traditional adhesives that air-dry, the UV adhesive remains unset until exposed to UV light, delivering a precise and durable bond.

The UV adhesive, like those used in gel nail sets, is a polymer that hardens instantly when exposed to UV light. This process creates a strong, lasting bond and eliminates the risk of premature curing. Additionally, the absence of fumes reduces the likelihood of allergic reactions to glue fumes.

If you’re considering adding UV Lashes to your toolkit, then here are some positives for you to consider:

1. Faster Application: The UV curing process is quick, cutting down overall appointment times.
2. Enhanced Durability: The bond formed by the UV adhesive is exceptionally strong, ensuring longer-lasting extensions.
3. Reduced Allergic Reactions: Clients with sensitive eyes or skin experience fewer allergic reactions without the fumes associated with traditional adhesives.
4. Instant Curing: The adhesive sets immediately under UV light, making the process efficient and precise.

On the flip side, here are some considerations and concerns voiced across the lash industry for you to research and consider.

1. UV Exposure Risks: There are concerns about UV exposure to the sensitive eye area, including potential risks of premature aging and skin damage. However, we do know that the Lash Plus UV system exposes you to the equivalent of 7 seconds in the sun for a 1-hour lash application session. So there are great options on the market providing targeted and minimal UV exposure.
2. Equipment Availability: The technology is new, so the jury is still out on this specialized equipment. Which product, the handheld or standing UV lamp, is best for your needs? The price point may be a care consideration.
3. Health Precautions: Before integrating UV lashes into your services, it’s essential to do your research and consult with professionals who understand the impact of UV technology.

Whatever your point of view, UV Lashes are a significant innovation in eyelash extensions, so they should absolutely be considered an alternative to traditional lash application methods.

Lashing Space Essentials

You should complete your salon space setup with these must-have items:

Great lighting is critical for detailed and accurate lashing, eye health, and reduced eye strain. The range of LED salon lighting has evolved over the years, with some of the most popular now being referred to as Horizon Lights, Wide-Angle Lights, and Moon Beauty Lights, to name a few.

Basically, it’s a curved light offering adjustable color temperature and rotation of up to 360 degrees with a rotating or swing arm and adjustable height. This is a great lighting option for Lash Artists because of the flexibility of positioning and the adjustable light modes.

Some people love Magnifying Lamps, glasses, or headpieces, and others hate them. It’s a personal preference, and they do take a bit of getting used to when you start using them. So, you may need to try working with magnification to make up your own mind about whether it enhances or hinders your work before deciding that it’s a salon essential for you.

You’ll be with your client for anywhere between 45 minutes and 3-4 hours, so their comfort is critical. There are plenty of Lash Beds and Recliners on the market but look for one that provides both you and your client with the ultimate comfort experience. Adjustable is nice to have but not necessary if your seating is adjustable. There can also be a big price difference between adjustable and non-adjustable, so keep that in mind.

You can add the next level of comfort by adding a foam memory topper or similar to your bed. A comfy, warm, or cool covering and a relaxing, cozy environment will enhance your overall client experience and your best working practices.

Disposable Supplies

Disposal supplies include Gel pads and medical tape to secure and protect the lower lashes. Disposable mascara wands, lash brushes, or spoolies are all available from your favorite lash suppliers. They are necessary for eyelash extension maintenance, so they are great to add to your customized aftercare client packs. While disposables make some people cringe, knowing they are going straight to landfill, they are a necessity in the lash industry, however, there are some eco-friendly options such as undereye pads that come in responsible packaging, or bamboo lash wands! 

Lash Extension Remover

To complete your kit, you’ll need a gel or cream remover designed to dissolve the adhesive for safe extension removal. The gel or cream makes the extension removal process comfortable and painless for clients who want to take a break from extensions or need a fresh set. Of course, if you do go down the route of UV lashes, then there is a specific UV lash remover that you’ll to invest in.

There’s a lot to consider in establishing a thriving career as a Lash Artist that goes beyond mastering the craft of lash application; it involves carefully selecting the right eyelash extension tools and supplies to get you started and deliver exceptional customer service. By investing in top-quality, ergonomically designed tweezers, durable synthetic lash fibers, and popular lash curls, lengths, and thicknesses, you can create beautiful and lasting lash designs tailored to your clients' preferences.

Embracing advancements like Promade fans and UV lashes can distinguish you in a competitive market. They offer innovative options for faster application, enhanced durability, and reduced allergic reactions. Equipping your workspace with essential items such as anti-glare lash tiles, comfortable lash beds, and effective lighting solutions will enhance both your working environment and the overall client experience.

Prioritizing aftercare products like the Prolong Lash Cleanser range and educating your clients on efficacious lash maintenance will safeguard their investment and uphold your professional reputation. As you navigate the ever-evolving lash industry, staying informed about new technologies and maintaining a well-stocked, versatile toolkit will enable you to deliver outstanding results and achieve recognition as a Lash Master. Your commitment to quality and continuous learning is the cornerstone of long-term success in this dynamic field.