3. Foundational knowledge

Now that you have a solid grasp of the basics, we can now begin to unpack all of the essential theory components you will need as a lash technician. Some of the information in this module may be a refresher for you, and other sections could be a totally new learning experience! Before we can begin practising and refining our lash application skills, we must understand why we do things a certain way. Lash extensions do not happen by chance – there is quite a technical formulation that sits behind achieving the perfect look for our clients. As a skilled lash technician, you will need to have a thorough knowledge of:

• The anatomy of the eye including skin layers, lash structure, growth cycles and shedding cycles
• Contraindications and when to refuse service
• How to identify contra-actions and ways to reduce them
• Patch testing methods
• Lash types including materials, curl types, lengths, diameters, colours and embellishments
• Colour theory and the impact on selecting coloured lashes
• Eye shapes
• Lash styles
• Lash application techniques
• Lash maps
• Lash removal
• Standard lash application
• Infill procedures and schedules
• After care advice

As you can see from the broad range of knowledge areas above, our job is not as simple as picking up lash extensions from a tray and gluing them to a natural lash! In this module, you will learn all of the theoretical concepts and principles that underpin what we do day in and day out as lash technicians. As you work through each lesson in this module, be sure to take plenty of notes so you can refer back to them later.