Understanding Processing Times for Optimal Results
As a professional lash technician, mastering the timing of lash lift procedures is crucial for achieving consistent, beautiful results. This guide provides detailed timing protocols based on lash types, troubleshooting advice, and scientific insights to enhance your technical expertise.
Basic Timing Protocol
Standard Processing Times
- Step 1 (Lifting Lotion): 7-8 minutes on thin lashes, 10 minutes on medium/thick lashes, 12 minutes on very thick lashes.
- Step 2 (Setting Lotion): Same as above.
These times are specifically tailored to the Lami Super Booster range and serve as a reliable starting point for customisation based on your professional assessment. Regular lash checks during the procedure allow for real-time adjustments, ensuring optimal results without risking overprocessing.
Adjusting Times for Different Lash Types
Thin/Weak Lashes
- Processing Time: 7-8 minutes per step.
Thin lashes process relatively quickly, so careful monitoring is essential to prevent overprocessing. Begin with the lower end of the time range and adjust as needed based on your observations.
Medium/Thick Lashes
- Processing Time: 10 minutes per step.
For most clients with medium-strength lashes, this timing delivers consistent and effective results. Always assess lash health and adjust as necessary during the procedure.
Very Thick/Coarse Lashes
- Processing Time: 12 minutes per step.
Thicker lashes often require extended processing times to achieve the desired curl. However, it’s crucial not to exceed this maximum time to avoid potential damage.
Processing Chemistry and Timing
The lash lifting process works by breaking and reforming disulfide bonds in the hair structure. Timing plays a critical role:
- Initial Phase (2-4 minutes): Bond-breaking begins.
- Middle Phase (5-10 minutes): Maximum lift achieved.
- Final Phase (11+ minutes): Risk of overprocessing increases.
Monitoring lash response during the final phase is particularly important to ensure optimal results without compromising lash health.
Troubleshooting Timing Issues
Under-processed Lashes
If the lift isn’t sufficient after the initial processing:
- Dry the lashes completely.
- Reassess lash condition.
- Reprocess with half the original timing:
- Step 1: 3-4 minutes.
- Step 2: 3-4 minutes.
Approach reprocessing cautiously to avoid overprocessing. Consider scheduling a follow-up appointment if needed rather than pushing the lashes beyond their limits.
Over-processed Lashes
Signs of overprocessing include:
- Frizzy or brittle texture.
- Excessive curl.
If these signs appear, immediately remove the lifting solution and apply the setting lotion to neutralise the process. Encourage clients to use nourishing lash serums to aid recovery.
Advanced Timing Considerations
First-Time Clients
Always start conservatively:
- Use standard timing.
- Document results for reference.
- Adjust in future treatments based on outcomes.
Repeat Clients
Leverage past data to refine timing:
- Increase processing by 1-minute increments if previous results were insufficient.
- Reduce timing if signs of stress were observed.
By adhering to these updated timing protocols and understanding the nuances of lash lifting chemistry, you can achieve consistently superior results with the Lami Super Booster range while maintaining the health and integrity of your clients’ lashes.