Lash Etiquette: Your Client’s Forehead is Not a Palette
Being a lash artist is more than just creating full, fluffy sets. It is about professionalism, hygiene & respect for your client’s safety & comfort. Unfortunately, many bad habits are still common in the lash world & they give clients the wrong impression of what “professional” really means. Let’s break them down.
Stop Using Your Client’s Forehead or Your Hands as Palettes
Placing lash strips on a client’s forehead or on the back of your hands is not only unprofessional, it is unsafe. The skin carries bacteria & oils, & adhesive can irritate or even burn the skin. More importantly, this practice makes your work appear careless, as if you are improvising instead of working in a controlled & hygienic setup. Instead, use a lash tile, palette or proper lash strip holder. These are designed for efficiency, easy placement & hygiene. Why would you put it on your hand?
Say No to Glue Rings
Glue rings may seem like a shortcut, but they are one of the most unsafe tools in our industry. Adhesive placed in a ring sits dangerously close to the client’s eyes & skin, also considering body heat accelerates curing, making your glue less reliable. A spilled ring can also result in adhesive burns.
Safer alternatives include disposable glue wells or trays. These keep adhesive at a proper distance & in a clean, stable environment.
Always Use a Fresh Glue Holder for Every Client
This is a step that many techs overlook. If you use a multi-well glue palette, each client must have a new well. Never reuse the same well for multiple clients. Even if it looks clean, microscopic residue can hold bacteria or old adhesive fumes that compromise safety & retention. Treat every client as if they are your very first of the day. Fresh tools, fresh disposables, fresh glue. This habit shows true professionalism.
Keep Your Hands Fresh & Clean
Our hands are only centimeters away from the client’s face for the entire service. If your hands smell of food, cigarettes, or harsh products, your client will notice immediately. Wash your hands thoroughly before every appointment & avoid strong perfumes or lingering odors. Clean, neutral or lightly pleasant scents make the experience more comfortable for your client.
Maintain a Professional Setup at All Times
Your workspace is a reflection of your standards. Strips stuck on random surfaces, glue rings balancing dangerously, or tools scattered around give the impression of chaos. Clients notice. A professional lash station should look clean, organized & intentional. Use lash organizers, palettes & disposable holders. Place everything within easy reach before your client arrives. This eliminates the need for unhygienic improvisation & reassures your client that you are in control.
Respect the Client’s Comfort Zone
Clients lie still for hours with their eyes closed, completely trusting you. Something as simple as brushing your hair out of your face, resting tools on their forehead, or touching their skin unnecessarily can feel intrusive. Respect their personal space. Wear a mask & focus only on their lashes.
Professionalism in the lash industry isn’t only measured by the final photo-ready set. It is measured by how safe, clean & comfortable you make the experience for your client. These details might seem small, but they are the foundation of client trust. Trust is what turns a first-time client into a loyal, lifelong client.