3.5 Treatment plan

Have you ever heard the quote ‘if you fail to plan, you plan to fail’? This sentiment rings true as a lash artist because there are so many factors you need to consider when creating perfect lashes. As you have already learned, your client’s natural lashes will have a large influence on the sorts of lash lifts you can achieve, and you can only work with what they have. Factors such as skin type, age and contraindications can also impact the service, so you need to consult with your client.

Effective consultation with your client is the most crucial part of determining the type of lash services you will perform. Most clients will usually have a specific style or look that they want to achieve in mind, with some wanting more natural lifts and others wanting a #wowfactor. Using the knowledge you have learned in this module, you will now be more equipped to confidently explain why you recommend certain looks that will be the best for them in terms of the look they are trying to achieve and the practicalities underpinning this decision. When determining the most appropriate lash curl and colour, at a minimum, you need to consider the clients:

• Face and eye shape
• The length and health of the natural lash
• Desired look
• Budget
• Contra-actions and contraindications

You must use your expertise and experience to help guide your client into selecting a realistic option. Managing your clients’ expectations in the initial consultation will prevent any disappointment and will also ensure that you maintain your professional integrity. Going against what is realistic and practical to appease your client may hurt them and your reputation in the long run! For example, if you have a client who really wants their lashes to look like Russian Volume lash extensions, but they only have lashes that are 7mm, you will need to explain that this sort of look cannot be achieved with a lash lift. Similarly, if a client wants you to use an extra-small rod but they have long lashes, you will need to explain the consequences and why you recommend a larger rod. While people want to be trendy, your clients will be guided by you in terms of what will look best for their natural lashes, so you will need to use your professional judgement.

As you build your client base and perform a full range of looks and applications, it is an excellent idea to take before and after photos as a point of reference for you and to create a portfolio of examples for clients. There are so many lash looks that you can achieve with a range of services, and this can sometimes be difficult to explain to clients verbally. Having visual examples to reference, even including a comparison between different looks (lash lifts with different rods and shields, lash tint colours, lash extension types if you offer those services), can help you work with your client to determine and explain which style will be most suitable. You might even divide your portfolio into specific lash lift types for ease of reference.

You will learn more about how to conduct effective client consultations at the end of this course. For now, you may like to download the client consultation form to get a basic understanding of the sort of information you will need to develop a treatment plan for your client.