How to Run a Successful Lash Extension Consultation
Eyelash extension consultations are a brilliant way of ensuring appointments go as smoothly as possible, for both you and your client. The purpose of these consultations is to get to know what your client wants and to build their trust in your knowledge and ability as an artist.
If you make your client feel at ease, they’ll walk right out of your consultation beaming with confidence and excitement for their new lashes. For this, though, you need to make sure you’re asking the right questions…
Questions to ask your client during lash consultation (and why to ask them)
Before you ask any questions, you need to talk about patch tests. In the UK this needs to be done a minimum of 24 hours before the lash appointment, so if your client has committed to the treatment then the lash consultation is the perfect time to do it.
If it’s a very early consultation and they have not committed to a lash appointment yet, advise your client that a patch test will be needed prior to their booking.
- Do you have any allergies or sensitivities?
This is the most important question so ask this first. Find out if they have any allergies or sensitivities or have had a reaction to extensions in the past. This will help you choose your products wisely, or in the case of serious reactions the procedure may simply not be suitable for them.
- Anything we need to know about your medical history?
You need to know if they have any skin conditions (such as eczema or dermatitis), eye disorders or are taking any medical prescriptions. Refer to the Flawless Lashes by Loreta aftercare guide for the full checklist.
- Have you received any permanent makeup or undergone any eye surgery within the past 6-8 weeks?
This is vital to know because we don’t want to perform treatment on a client who has an open wound and is more at risk of infection. Make sure your client is properly healed before they undergo any more treatment!
Note: if your client has recently had any eyelash treatment that includes chemicals such as lash tinting or perm they must wait at least 48 hours before your appointment to have the treatment.
- Have you had eyelash extensions before? What did you like or dislike about them?
Try and determine the style they had previously and whether they want something more natural or dramatic this time round. If they dislike the maintenance of lash extensions, perhaps they would be better with a lash lift?
- How much make-up do you wear daily?
We ask this to understand what style the client usually goes for and how much they are used to wearing on their face in their day-to-day life. Once again, it’s all about getting to know your client better so you can give them a style they’ll love!
- Do you wear mascara for length or volume?
If your client wears mascara for length then you can recommend Classic Eyelash Extensions for a more lightweight and natural look. If they wear mascara for the volume you can recommend Russian Volume Eyelash Extensions for a bolder, more dramatic look.
- How long are you happy for the appointment to be?
If your client is expecting to sit down for half an hour but wants a full set of lashes, they’re going to be disappointed. You need to make sure your client knows how long their appointment will be for the style they desire. Opening up this discussion in the consultation leaves room for compromise, so you can discuss with your client what solution will suit them best.
- How much would you like to spend?
Knowing your client’s budget allows you to offer them the right set of lashes. If they’re looking for something a little cheaper you can always offer your client a half set. If they can’t afford volume lashes but seek a full look then hybrid lashes could be a solution.
- Do you wear glasses or contacts?
Glasses will determine which lash curls you can use to avoid the lashes pressing against the glass. If your client wears contacts make sure they take them out before the treatment so the eyes aren’t irritated.
Tips for running a successful lash consultation
- Dedicate plenty of time to it - don’t rush. We want your client to come back again and again - and even recommend a friend! So spend time determining the style that is best suited to them and that they will absolutely adore! Take a minimum payment in advance, as part of the treatment price.
- Ask your client these questions again at the beginning of your appointment - they'll have a better idea of what they want now that they’ve had more time to think about it.
- Assess lash health and thickness. If your client doesn’t have strong, healthy lashes they will be unable to support heavier extensions. On the other hand, if they have very strong lashes you can let them know they have lots of options!
- Analyse the shape of the eyes and face. Are their eyes large or small? Round or almond? Close or wide set? Perhaps they’re hooded or monolid? Upturned, downturned or straight? This is an essential step in determining the style of lashing that will bring out your client’s beauty the most. what style of lashing will suit your client best, informing the lash map that you create. Use your expertise. This is why your client has come to see you.
- Don’t ask your client for ‘inspo’ pics. Quite often the client may have their heart set on something that is unsuitable for them, due to the health of their lashes or their eye shape. If they insist on showing you some pics, be prepared to steer them towards something more suitable where necessary, explaining how it will enhance their beauty more than what they originally had in mind.
Conclusion
When your consultation is wrapping up, go ahead and ask the big question. Would your client like to book the appointment? Yes? Then go and grab your lash extension consultation form and get those dates in the book!
So there you have it. The lash consultation process is really as easy as pie. The bottom line is: get to know your client! This is the key to any customer relationship. You want them to have a great experience with you and feel comfortable that you know your stuff - so they’ll return time and time again for your expertise.