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Today I've had to bring out my antihistamines again for the 5th day in a row, which can only mean one thing...

With the weather being milder it's brought hayfever season forward.

Normally we don't have to think about this until springtime, but the issue is very real for us lash technicians.

Keep an eye out for broken lashes or gaps in the lash line. 

If lashes are broken it's not an early spring lash shed, it's a sign that clients are rubbing or picking at lashes, which could be a direct result of allergy or irritation.

During the time which clients suffer with hay fever, their immune system is weakened. 

This leaves clients more vulnerable to reactions and possible sensitivity to your lash products, so advise your clients about this.

If they want advice to help prevent reactions from occurring simply recommend a healthy diet, exercise and possibly supplements to boost their immune system (a pharmacist can advise them which is best).

It's always important to keep lashes super clean to aid retention and for the prevention of infections and disorders, however when clients have hay fever they will need to be even more frequent in cleaning lashes.

Pollen and allergens will settle on lashes aggravating any existing condition, so on top of washing lashes frequently with Flirties cleanser, they might find it useful to rinse lashes with warm water throughout the day, and dab gently with a clean towel to dry.

 If clients are using eye drops they need to ensure they pull the eye open from the lid, not the lashes.

Many medicated drops can be very oily so it's worth mentioning that these may affect retention.

Some aftercare tips I share to clients.

Wash your lashes regularly 

Start taking antihistamines before hay fever kicks in properly (speak to your pharmacist for advise)

Change pillows frequently and keep bed sheets and towels freshly laundered.

Wear sunglasses outside 

Wash hair frequently as pollen becomes trapped in hair.

Brush pets regularly outside as their fur collects pollen.

Do not rub your lashes

Be aware that some eye drops/sprays will affect retention.

For clients who suffer a lot, it may now be worth mentioning that they could move over to lash lift for the summer as an alternative. Many of my clients do this and it works really well, and they all get excited about going back to lash extensions in the autumn. 

So from our point of view, it's super important to be aware of issues surrounding hay fever. Many clients won't even tell you they have it, some might not know! But by being aware and ready for it, you could potentially prevent an issue before it becomes one :)

Beauty therapy is an industry that is constantly evolving and developing, and it needs the people within it to do the same. The best way to keep on top of everything is with properly organised training.

Whilst many treatments might seem like child's play, training is vital in everything that you want to offer to the paying public. It protects them, protects you, and you might just learn a thing or two! 

The Hidden Questions

Applying a nail product, gluing on lashes or ripping a wax strip off might seem simple, but there is a lot of knowledge that is needed before you can be let anywhere near a client.

Health and safety is hardly a sexy subject but it is a vital one if you want to keep your clients safe. Learning how to keep your tools and working area clean and hygienic is essential in making sure nothing untoward is passed on to your clients.

There are lots of reasons why you might not be able to perform a treatment, and you need to understand all of these. Contra-indications mean it is not safe to go ahead with the treatment, and it is of paramount importance that you can recognise all of these and know the best way to handle them.

Only with proper training can you have a full and thorough understanding of all of these issues and be able to keep your clients safe.

Supplier Training

Learning the basics of a treatment gives you a great foundation, but every product is different. Responsible suppliers like Flirties give you the opportunity to train in the use of their specific products so you know the exact way they should be used, how long the effects can be expected to last and what differences you might encounter with the products.

Insurance

Sometimes things do go wrong, which is why all beauty therapists should have insurance to protect themselves if the worst happens. You will need to prove that you are qualified to perform every treatment that you offer, and so professional training is necessary. Many insurers are now clamping down on what courses they will cover so make sure you train with an accredited provider like Flirties.

Nothing is more important in the beauty industry than training. It protects you from making dangerous mistakes, it protects your clients from anything going wrong and it protects the good name of the industry.

To find out more about the fantastic training offered by Flirties across the UK, just click here.