What Is Lash Overprocessing and How Do You Avoid It?
As a professional cosmetologist, you know that a perfect set of lashes can take any look to the next level. But there’s a dark side to the world of lashes: overprocessing. Let’s take a deep delve into what lash overprocessing is and how you can avoid it to achieve stunning, healthy lash sets for your clients.
What Is Lash Overprocessing?
Lash overprocessing is a common issue in the lash industry. Overprocessing happens when the lashes are in contact with chemicals for an extended period of time. This breaks down the disulphide bonds in the lashes, which results in weak and brittle hairs.
Overprocessing can happen during various lash services, such as perming, tinting, or extensions. It can lead to dissatisfied clients, decreased retention, and potential damage to their natural lashes.
How Overprocessing Affects Lashes
The effects of lash overprocessing are two-fold. First, it can cause the lashes to become dry and brittle. This affects the look of the set and increases breakage and shedding—a definite no-no for flawless lashes. Second, it can weaken the natural hairs, resulting in an unnatural curl and an unhealthy appearance.
The most common signs of overprocessed lashes are:
- Uneven curls
- Shedding or breaking
- Extreme dryness or brittleness
- Color fading in tinted lashes
- Unnatural curl direction in permed lashes
To ensure the best results, pay attention to the condition of your client’s lashes throughout the services. If you detect any signs of overprocessing, take a break and adjust techniques or products accordingly.
Things That Cause Lash Overprocessing
There are many factors that can lead to lash overprocessing. These are some of the most common.
Incorrect Product Use
Do you use eyelash perming and tinting products that contain harmful chemicals? Choose milder products specifically formulated for safe use on eyelashes. Additionally, refrain from excessive use of adhesives or using overly strong adhesives for lash extensions.
Improper Technique
If you haven’t had proper lash application, tinting, or perming training, it’s easy for things to go wrong. Improper application of products, leaving them on for too long, or poor aftercare management can all contribute to overprocessing. It’s essential to invest time in ongoing training and seeking lash certifications to stay up-to-date with best practices.
Ignoring Instructions
Not following your lash product’s instructions can also lead to overprocessing. Many manufacturers provide detailed guidelines on product use, including application times and techniques. If you don’t follow these instructions carefully, you could damage your client’s lashes. Make sure to read all directions before attempting any kind of treatment.
Ways To Prevent Lash Overprocessing
Lash overprocessing can be detrimental to both the natural lashes and the lash extensions. You must take steps to prevent overprocessing in order to preserve your client’s beautiful new set of eyelashes. Here are some tips you should follow as a cosmetologist.
Know Your Products
It’s crucial to know everything about the products you use. When it comes to lash lifting, make sure you understand the ingredients, the processing time, and the difference in formulas for various client needs. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure that the products you use are effective and safe for your clients’ lashes.
Assess Your Clients’ Eyelashes
Before you start the lash lifting process, assess your clients’ eyelashes. This helps you understand their condition and determine which products will best suit them. For instance, if the eyelashes are overly curly or brittle, you may need to use a gentler product to avoid damaging them. This is an essential step to ensure the best results and to prevent overprocessing.
Keep an Eye on the Time
Overprocessing occurs when you leave the lifting solution on the lashes for too long. A common mistake is assuming that a longer processing time leads to better results. This isn’t the case!
Tip
Set a timer and adhere to the appropriate processing time for each specific product you use. By respecting the time recommendations, you minimize the risk of overprocessing.
Remove All Solution
After the allotted processing time is up, be sure to remove all of the solution from the lashes. Leaving even a small amount of product can lead to overprocessing. It’s important to use a lint free cotton pad and luke warm water to thoroughly remove all of the product. Be sure not to rub too hard, and be gentle when cleansing the lashes.
How To Fix Overprocessed Lashes
You now know what lash overprocessing is and how you can avoid it. But what if you slip up, and your client ends up with overprocessed lashes anyway? If this happens, don’t panic! There are ways to reverse the damage and restore the health and beauty of their natural lashes.
Moisturize and Condition
One of the primary issues with overprocessed lashes is that they lack moisture, which makes them weak and brittle. Invest in a high-quality, professional lash conditioner that will provide essential hydration and nourishment. Encourage clients with overprocessed lashes to use a conditioner consistently for the best results.
Encourage Growth
Lash growth serums are a fantastic way to combat overprocessed lashes, as they nourish, strengthen, and promote natural lash growth. Look for serums that contain peptides, vitamins, and natural extracts to improve the overall condition of the lashes.
If your clients need help with healing their lashes after an overprocessing mishap, consider recommending Lash and Beauty Store’s serums to them. Lash and Beauty Store is a reputable lash and brow growth serum distributor that provides the perfect solutions for healthy lashes and satisfied clients. Check out our offerings today!
Give Lashes a Break
Clients with overprocessed lashes should take a break from lash extensions and lifts to allow their natural lashes time to recover. This break will also give you the opportunity to reassess their lash health and determine the best course of action for future treatments.
Overprocessed lashes can be a thing of the past if you stay mindful of product choice, techniques, and aftercare. By enhancing your skills, using high-quality products, and empowering your clients with proper aftercare knowledge, you can make lash overprocessing a mere memory!
