TROUBLESHOOTING RETENTION
It can be your best friend or your nightmare, it’s the foundation for good lashes, and it can be a deal breaker for returning clients. I am talking about RETENTION. Good retention is what lash dreams are made of, but what do you do if your client’s retention isn’t reaching it’s full potential? It seems like there is an endless list of possibilities when it comes to reasons that retention could be suffering. Between crying, application, traveling, or just plain bad after care we have covered the bases with this list reference list. Next time your client asks why they are loosing lashes you can check this list and offer them some solutions!
Incorrect ApplicationOn your end, check that both your placement and the amount of glue is correct. Too much or too little adhesive will almost always cause poor retention.
Replace AdhesiveAlways replace your glue according to your lash supplier’s recommendation or sooner! Glue can oxidize after repeatedly opening and closing. Pay attention to your adhesive’s tackiness.
CleansingI recommend client’s cleanse their lashes before their appointment giving me a clean canvas, but in the case they have not cleanse them yourself. Make it easy for your client’s and offer retail cleansing kits. Having clean lashes is usually the first thing I correct when retention is in question.
CuringFirst things first, are you using a nano-mister? If not, do it now! Nano-misting completes the appointment and helps the adhesive cure effectively and completely.
At Home RoutineAsk your client’s about their after care. What types of products are they using at home? Oily products will destroy the adhesive. The natural oil in our skin will also cause the adhesive to break down, so ask if they are touching their lashes and evaluate how oily their skin is. How do they sleep? Are they taking new medications? Have they noticed any other changes in their skin or hair? Are they stressed?
CryingI’ve had clients comment on their retention and follow with, “but I’ve been crying a lot.” If they have experienced a few emotional days it’s likely that the extra moisture and touching is effecting their retention.
SleepingThis is a tough one because there’s only so much we can do to control how we sleep. If they have restless nights it can cause more friction and pressure on the lashes. If this is a common problem for your client, recommend a silk pillowcase!
TravelingI see this one a lot when it comes to lash lost, but that’s okay because when poor retention is caused from traveling it is a temporary issue. A change in humidity and being more active on vacation is what can cause bad retention.
Like I said, there are a lot of reasons that can be attributed to poor retention. It’s important as the lash artist to try to come to a satisfactory conclusion of why the retention has been less than ideal. I hope this list helps! In the case that you cannot determine the cause, also consider growth phases, hormones, and environment. The biggest take a way when troubleshooting retention is to educate your clients and consistently review their after care.
