Selecting the correct lash lift shield size is crucial for achieving the lifted, curled lash look your clients desire. Using shields that are too large or small can lead to unsatisfactory results or even damage your clients’ natural lashes. The wrong size can cause the lashes to over-process, resulting in brittleness, breakage, or an unnatural appearance. On the other hand, the perfect fitting shields will give beautifully curled, lifted lashes that enhance your clients’ eyes and last for weeks. Choosing the right size may seem daunting at first, but with a little knowledge and some experimentation, you’ll be able to find the ideal shields for any type of lashes. Here’s a guide on how to determine the right lash lift pad sizes for your needs and get optimal results from your lash lift treatment.
Understanding Lash Lift Shield Sizes
Lash lift shields, also known as silicone pads, typically come in several sizes:
- Small (S): Creates a tighter curl, ideal for shorter lashes
- Medium (M): Provides a medium curl, suitable for average length lashes
- Large (L): Gives a more subtle lift, best for longer lashes
- Extra Large (XL): For a very natural, gentle lift on very long lashes
In general, the smaller the shield, the more dramatic the curl will be. Smaller shields force the lashes to curve more intensely from the base, creating a more noticeable lift and curl. This is because there is less surface area for the lashes to adhere to, so they are pushed upwards at a sharper angle. Larger shields, on the other hand, have a greater surface area, allowing the lashes to lie flatter and straighter. This results in a more natural-looking, subtle lift. Extra-large shields are designed for very long lashes that only need a bit of lift at the base to create a gentle curve. It’s important to note that using shields that are too small can cause the lashes to over-curl and look unnatural, while shields that are too large may not provide enough lift and curl. Finding the right size is key to getting the results you want.
Measuring Natural Lashes
To choose the right size shields, start by evaluating your client’s natural lashes:
- Length: Measure the longest lashes from base to tip. Short lashes are usually under 8mm, medium are 8-12mm, and long are over 12mm.
- Thickness: Note if the lashes are fine, average, or thick/coarse. Finer lashes may need a smaller shield for more lift.
- Eye shape: Consider whether the eyes are round, almond, hooded, or deep set. This can impact how dramatic you want the curl to be.
Measuring the natural lashes is a crucial step in determining the right shield size for your client’s lash lift.
Start by looking closely at your client’s lashes. Use a clean spoolie brush to gently comb through the lashes and separate them so you can see their natural length and thickness. You can use a ruler or lash measuring tool to get an accurate measurement of the longest lashes from the base to the tip. Make a note of whether the lashes are on the shorter side (under 8mm), average length (8-12mm), or long (over 12mm).
Next, assess the thickness of your client’s lashes. Fine lashes are thin and delicate, average lashes have a medium thickness, and thick or coarse lashes are more sturdy and dense.
Finer lashes may benefit from a smaller shield to give them more lift and curl, while thicker lashes can handle larger shields for a more natural look.
Finally, take a look at the eye shape. Round eyes may benefit from a more dramatic curl, while almond or hooded eyes may want a subtler lift. Deep set eyes may need a smaller shield to fit comfortably on the lid. By taking all of these factors into account, you’ll be able to narrow down the ideal shield size for the lashes.
Selecting the Right Shield Size
Based on the lash measurements and characteristics, follow these general guidelines:
- Short, fine lashes: Use small (S) shields for maximum lift
- Short, thick lashes: Try small (S) or medium (M) shields
- Medium length, average thickness: Medium (M) shields work well
- Long lashes: Use large (L) shields for a gentle lift
- Very long lashes: Go with extra large (XL) for the most natural look
Once you’ve measured their lashes and assessed their characteristics, you can use these guidelines to select the right shield size for the lash lift. If they have short, fine lashes, small (S) shields will give the most dramatic lift and curl. The smaller surface area will force the lashes to curl up more intensely from the base.
If their short lashes are on the thicker side, you may be able to use small (S) or medium (M) shields, depending on the look you want to achieve.
For average length lashes with medium thickness, medium (M) shields are usually the best choice. They provide a nice balance of lift and curl without looking overly dramatic.
If your client has long lashes, large (L) shields will give them a gentle lift and subtle curl. The larger surface area allows your client’s lashes to lie flatter and straighter, creating a more natural look.
For very long lashes, extra-large (XL) shields are the way to go. They will give lashes a slight lift at the base while keeping the overall look very soft and natural.
Remember, these are just general guidelines, and you may need to try a couple of different sizes to find the perfect fit for your clients’ lashes. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you achieve the lifted, curled look you desire.
Application Tips for Best Results
- Position the shield as close to the lash line as possible without pinching the skin
- Ensure lashes are thoroughly separated and fanned out across the shield
- Trim shields if needed for a better fit on your client’s eye shape
- Use the lash lift glue sparingly to avoid clumping
- Process according to product instructions based on the lash type
Proper application techniques are just as important as choosing the right shield size for achieving optimal lash lift results. Start by positioning the shield as close to the lash line as possible without pinching or tugging on the delicate skin around the eyes. This will ensure that the lashes get lifted and curled from the base for a more dramatic and long-lasting effect.
Use a lash separator tool or clean lash lift brush to carefully separate lashes out across the shield. Make sure they are evenly distributed and not clumping together. If you find that the shields are too wide for your client’s eye shape, you can trim them down with scissors to create a better fit. Just be careful not to cut too much off, as this can affect the curl pattern.
When applying the lash lift glue, use a light hand and avoid globbing on too much product. A thin, even layer is all you need to hold the lashes in place on the shield. Too much glue can cause the lashes to clump together and look unnatural. Also, the thicker the layer, the longer it can take for the glue to dry and it can create a too thick of a barrier for lash lift lotions to properly penetrate.
Finally, be sure to follow the processing times outlined in your lash lift product instructions. Different formulas may have slightly different recommended times based on the lash type and desired results. Stick to the guidelines provided to avoid over or under-processing the lashes. By using proper application techniques and the right size shields, you’ll be able to achieve stunning, long-lasting lash lift results that enhance your clients’ natural beauty.