1. Credentials, Training, and Experience
Licensing & Certification: Ensure both the salon and the individual technicians hold valid state/local licenses for the procedure.
Specialized Training: Look for evidence of specific certification in eyelash extension application from reputable training providers. Don’t be afraid to ask how long they’ve been lashing.
Expertise: A professional will be knowledgeable about different lash materials (silk, mink, synthetic), diameters, curls (J, B, C, D), and styles (classic, volume, hybrid).
2. Hygiene and Safety Standards
Clean Environment: The salon must be visibly clean, organized, and well-managed. Look for a clean service bed and workstation and a tidy general area.
Sanitation Protocols: This is non-negotiable. The technician should:
Wash and sanitize their hands before starting.
Use fresh, disposable tools (like spoolie wands and pads).
Sterilize reusable tools (tweezers, scissors) between every client.
Use medical-grade adhesives and products.
3. Consultation and Customization
Thorough Consultation: The service should always begin with a detailed discussion. The technician should:
Ask about your allergies, lifestyle, and makeup habits.
Assess the health and condition of your natural lashes.
Discuss your desired look (length, volume, style) and recommend options that will safely complement your eye shape and natural lash strength.
Customization: Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. A skilled artist will use a variety of lengths to create a natural, seamless look.
4. Reputation, Reviews, and Portfolio
Online Reviews: Check platforms like Google, Yelp, and social media for a broad consensus of positive feedback. Pay attention to comments regarding cleanliness, professionalism, longevity of the lashes, and customer service.
Portfolio: Look through their before-and-after photos (usually on their website or Instagram). Look for:
Neat, uniform application with no clumps.
Styles that are symmetrical and complement different eye shapes.
Variety of work if you are interested in different styles.
5. Clear Communication and Aftercare
Responsiveness: The staff should be responsive and listen to your preferences.
Aftercare: A reputable technician will provide clear, detailed aftercare instructions on how to clean and maintain your extensions, as well as recommend appropriate oil-free products.
🚩 Red Flags to Watch Out For
You should look elsewhere if you encounter any of these warning signs:
Unlicensed or Uncertified Personnel: They cannot produce valid licenses or proof of specialized training.
Unsanitary Environment: Visible dirt, clutter, or the use of tools that were not opened from a sealed pouch or sterilized in front of you.
No Consultation: If the technician starts applying lashes immediately without discussing your natural lashes, health history, or desired style.
Extremely Low Prices: Quality products and skilled labor are costly. If the price is significantly lower than the local market rate, they may be cutting corners on product quality or training.
Rushed Application: A full set of quality extensions takes at least 1.5 to 2.5 hours. If it feels rushed, essential isolation steps may have been skipped.
Clumped Lashes: If you see multiple natural lashes glued together or excessive, visible glue residue, this is a sign of poor isolation and technique that can damage your natural lashes.
Discomfort or Pain: Eyelash extensions should feel feather-light and comfortable. Any consistent burning, stinging, itching, or heavy feeling is a sign something is wrong.
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