Lash Lift Troubleshooting & Professional FAQs
When a lash lift doesn’t go to plan, the most important step is identifying why the issue occurred. Lash lift problems are rarely random — they are almost always linked to processing time, product control, lash preparation, or aftercare. This guide breaks down the most common issues, their causes, and how to correct and prevent them to ensure consistent, long-lasting results.
Why Didn’t the Lash Lift Work?
A lash lift may fail or appear weak due to several technical factors. The most common causes include:
Under-processing
If the lifting solution is not left on long enough, the bonds inside the lash hair will not fully restructure, resulting in little to no lift. Thick, coarse, or downward-growing lashes often require the longer end of the recommended processing time.
Professional guidance:
If under-processing occurs, the treatment can be safely repeated after one week. For future treatments, slightly increase the processing time while staying within safe manufacturer guidelines.
Excessive adhesive use
Applying too much glue can create a barrier that prevents the lifting solution from penetrating the lash hair effectively.
Professional guidance:
Apply adhesive sparingly and only where needed. Work in small sections and avoid layering glue unnecessarily.
Expired or incorrectly stored products
Perming lotions that are expired or stored improperly can lose strength and become unreliable.
Professional guidance:
Always check expiration dates and ensure products are stored according to manufacturer recommendations. Weak or inconsistent results are often product-related rather than technique-related.
Why Are the Lashes Not Sticking to the Shield?
Poor adhesion is usually linked to preparation or product control.
Professional checks:
• Ensure the shield size is correct for the client’s natural lash length (short lashes require smaller shields).
• Use a professional-grade lash adhesive with good elasticity and grip.
• Allow the adhesive to become tacky before placing the lashes.
• Do not allow adhesive to fully dry before positioning.
• Work in small sections, lifting lashes gradually from the outer corner inward.
• Thoroughly cleanse lashes with an oil-free cleanser before starting, as oils will prevent adhesion.
Why Are the Lashes Crossed or Crooked After Treatment?
This issue occurs when lashes are not correctly aligned before solutions are applied.
Why this matters:
Lashes set in the exact position they are placed on the shield. Any crossing or twisting at this stage becomes permanent once processed.
Professional solution:
Use a mascara wand or lifting tool to comb, separate, and straighten lashes before applying any solution. Ensure lashes are evenly spaced and parallel on the shield to achieve a clean, symmetrical result.
Why Are the Lash Tips Singed or Over-Processed?
This is a sign of excessive processing or incorrect product placement.
Why it happens:
The tips of the lashes are finer and more fragile than the base and do not require chemical exposure.
Professional solution:
• Always follow processing times based on the client’s lash thickness and condition.
• Apply perming lotion only to the base of the lashes (the wet line), avoiding the mid-lengths and tips.
Why Didn’t the Lash Lift Last?
Premature dropping of a lash lift is usually caused by:
Insufficient processing time
If the lift wasn’t processed long enough, the bonds will relax quickly.
Incorrect or poor aftercare
Heat, steam, excessive moisture, or rubbing the eyes during the first 24–48 hours can weaken the setting phase.
Professional guidance:
• Adjust processing times for stubborn lash types in future treatments.
• Educate clients on proper aftercare, including avoiding heat, steam, and friction and brushing lashes into place if they become wet.
Why Did My Client Experience Stinging During the Treatment?
Stinging is most commonly caused by the client opening their eyes slightly during the service, allowing fumes or product vapour to reach the eye.
Professional prevention:
• Instruct clients clearly to keep their eyes fully closed throughout the treatment.
• If stinging occurs, immediately remove any product near the eye area and stop processing.
• Work slowly and carefully — rushing increases the risk of product migration.
• Always keep sterile eye wash available in case rinsing is required.
Can Lash Lifts Be Performed on Pregnant or Breastfeeding Clients?
There is currently no conclusive research confirming the safety of lash lift products during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Professional recommendation:
• Adhesive-based products are not recommended during pregnancy.
• Use adhesive-free pads if proceeding, though caution is still advised.
• Avoid applying any product close to the skin unless it is fully natural.
• Even toxin-free formulas contain active ingredients that may be absorbed through the skin.
For safety and liability reasons, it is best practice to advise clients to wait until after pregnancy or breastfeeding before having a lash lift.
How Long Should Clients Wait Between Lash Lift Treatments?
Clients should wait 6–8 weeks between full lash lift treatments, depending on lash growth and how much of the lift remains visible. Lifting lashes too frequently increases the risk of dryness, breakage, and over-processing.
Lash Lift Product Storage Guidelines
Correct storage is essential for product performance and safety.
Step One – Perming Lotion
• Unopened: 12 months*
• Opened (not sealed): 24 hours
• Opened (sealed): 7–10 days
• Patch testing use: up to 4 weeks
Step Two – Setting Lotion
• Unopened: 12 months*
• Opened (not sealed): 5 days
• Opened (sealed): 2–3 weeks
• Patch testing use: up to 4 weeks
*Shelf life may vary depending on batch number. Always confirm product-specific details with the supplier before use.
By following these professional troubleshooting techniques and best practices, artists can achieve consistent, high-quality lash lift results while maintaining lash health, client comfort, and treatment safety.