Preparing for Your First Lash Extension Appointment
Your complete guide to preparing for your first lash extension experience. Make the most of your appointment with these essential tips.
Congratulations on booking your first lash extension appointment! Whether you're visiting one of our Orange County studios or another lash salon, proper preparation ensures you'll have the best possible experience and beautiful, long-lasting results. Here's everything you need to know before your appointment.
24-48 Hours Before Your Appointment
Skip the Lash Curler
Stop using mechanical lash curlers at least 48 hours before your appointment:
- Curlers can crimp or damage natural lashes
- Bent lashes make extension application more difficult
- Your extensions will provide all the curl you need
- Damaged lashes may not hold extensions properly
Avoid Lash Treatments
Hold off on these lash treatments before your appointment:
- Lash lifts or perms (wait at least 6-8 weeks)
- Lash tinting (can be done, but isn't necessary with extensions)
- Growth serums containing prostaglandin (may affect adhesive)
- Any harsh chemical treatments near the eye area
Review Your Medications and Allergies
Be prepared to discuss with your Orange County lash artist:
- Any eye-related medications or conditions
- Known allergies (especially to adhesives or latex)
- Thyroid medications or conditions affecting lash growth
- Recent eye surgeries or procedures
- Use of Accutane or similar medications
The Day of Your Appointment
Remove All Eye Makeup Thoroughly
This is the single most important preparation step:
- Remove all mascara completely (use oil-free remover)
- Clean away any eyeliner, especially waterproof formulas
- Remove eyeshadow and any eye primer
- Ensure no makeup residue remains on lash line
- Clean mascara can prevent proper adhesive bonding
Arrive with Clean, Dry Lashes
Your lash artist will cleanse your lashes, but starting clean helps:
- Wash your face before leaving home
- Use an oil-free facial cleanser
- Pat lashes dry gently with a clean towel
- Avoid applying any products to eye area
- No moisturizer, primer, or serums near eyes
Skip Contact Lenses
For comfort and safety during your appointment:
- Remove contact lenses before arriving (or bring case and solution)
- Your eyes will be closed for 1.5-2 hours
- Contacts can become uncomfortable during application
- Bring glasses if needed for driving home
- You can resume wearing contacts 24 hours after appointment
Dress Comfortably
You'll be lying down for extended time, so wear:
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- Avoid turtlenecks or high necklines that might interfere
- Layer clothing as room temperature varies
- Skip uncomfortable bras or restrictive waistbands
- Remove any jewelry that might be uncomfortable lying down
Plan for Relaxation Time
Prepare for a relaxing 1.5-2 hour experience:
- Don't schedule back-to-back appointments
- Use the restroom before your appointment begins
- Silence your phone or put it on do-not-disturb
- Many clients fall asleep during application – embrace it!
- Allow extra time for consultation and aftercare instructions
What to Bring to Your Appointment
Essential Items
- Photo Inspiration: Save images of lash styles you love
- Sunglasses: Your eyes may be sensitive to light afterward
- Payment: Cash, card, or verify accepted payment methods
- Insurance Card: If applicable for medical reasons
Optional Comfort Items
- Lip balm (your mouth may get dry)
- A light sweater or blanket if you tend to get cold
- Headphones if your salon allows (ask in advance)
- Water bottle (though you'll keep eyes closed)
Important Pre-Appointment Considerations
Caffeine and Hydration
What you consume affects your comfort:
- Limit caffeine – too much can make it hard to stay still
- Stay hydrated but don't overdo it (long appointment)
- Avoid alcohol the night before (can affect eye moisture)
- Eat a regular meal before your appointment
Timing Your Appointment
Choose your appointment time wisely:
- Morning appointments mean fresh, rested eyes
- Avoid scheduling during allergy-heavy times of day
- Don't book right after work if you're typically tired
- Allow time to relax before the appointment
- Consider Orange County traffic when planning arrival time
Menstrual Cycle Considerations
Some women are more sensitive during certain times:
- Hormones can affect eye sensitivity
- Some experience increased irritation during menstruation
- Consider scheduling during the second week of your cycle
- Everyone is different – track what works for you
Questions to Prepare for Your Consultation
About Your Lifestyle
Your Orange County lash artist will ask about:
- Your daily makeup routine and preferences
- Work environment (office, outdoor, etc.)
- Exercise and swimming habits
- Beach and pool activities
- Time available for maintenance
About Your Desired Look
Be ready to discuss:
- Natural vs. dramatic preference
- Length and volume expectations
- Curl preferences (C, D, or L curl)
- Special occasions or events coming up
- Budget for initial set and ongoing fills
About Your Natural Lashes
Your artist will assess, but you can share:
- Previous lash extension experience
- Natural lash concerns or sensitivities
- Any lash loss or damage history
- Current lash care routine
What to Expect During Your First Appointment
The Consultation (10-15 minutes)
- Discussion of your desired look and lifestyle
- Examination of your natural lashes
- Explanation of appropriate styles for your eye shape
- Review of aftercare requirements
- Patch test if you have sensitivity concerns
The Application Process (1-2 hours)
- You'll lie comfortably on a cushioned bed
- Under-eye gel pads will be applied for comfort
- Your eyes will remain gently closed throughout
- The process is painless and relaxing
- Many clients fall asleep during application
Aftercare Instructions (5-10 minutes)
- Detailed explanation of care requirements
- Product recommendations for maintenance
- Booking your next fill appointment
- Emergency contact information
- What to expect in the first 24-48 hours
Mental Preparation for Success
Set Realistic Expectations
Understand what lash extensions can and cannot do:
- Extensions enhance natural lashes but work within your natural base
- Sparse natural lashes may require volume techniques for fullness
- Your first set helps you learn what you prefer
- Adjustments and refinements are normal at fill appointments
- Photos may show dramatic examples not suitable for everyone
Embrace the Learning Curve
Your first set is a learning experience:
- You'll learn what length and curl work best for you
- Aftercare becomes second nature within a week
- Retention often improves as you perfect your routine
- Don't be discouraged if you need adjustments
- Communication with your artist is key
Plan for Adjustment Period
Allow yourself time to adjust to extensions:
- Lashes may feel slightly unusual for the first day or two
- Seeing yourself with enhanced lashes takes getting used to
- Your morning routine will change (less makeup needed!)
- You'll develop new habits for cleansing and care
- Most clients wonder how they ever lived without them!
Orange County Specific Preparations
Traffic and Parking Considerations
- Plan for Orange County traffic delays
- Arrive 5-10 minutes early for paperwork
- Locate parking in advance (street vs. lot)
- Consider carpooling or rideshare if parking is limited
Post-Appointment Activities
Plan appropriately for after your appointment:
- No swimming or water exposure for 24 hours
- Avoid intense workouts the same day
- Skip the beach or pool the day of your appointment
- Give yourself time to admire your new lashes!
Special Situations and Preparations
If You Have Sensitive Eyes
- Mention sensitivity during booking
- Consider scheduling a patch test 48 hours before
- Discontinue any new eye products a week before
- Ask about sensitive adhesive formulas
- Bring allergy medication if prescribed
If You Wear Glasses
- Inform your lash artist about frame style
- Certain lengths may be adjusted to prevent touching lenses
- Curl type can be customized for glasses wearers
- Extensions actually work beautifully with glasses!
If You Have Very Short or Sparse Lashes
- Be honest about your concerns during consultation
- Volume lashes may be recommended for fullness
- Shorter extensions can still create beautiful enhancement
- Professional application works with any lash type
Final Checklist: Day of Appointment
Morning Checklist
- ☐ Clean face, remove all eye makeup completely
- ☐ Remove contact lenses (bring case and solution)
- ☐ Skip all eye area products (moisturizer, primer, serum)
- ☐ Dress in comfortable, loose clothing
- ☐ Eat a regular meal and stay hydrated
- ☐ Use restroom before leaving
Items to Bring
- ☐ Photo inspiration for desired lash style
- ☐ Sunglasses for after appointment
- ☐ Payment method (cash or card)
- ☐ List of current medications or allergies
- ☐ Glasses for driving home (if needed)
- ☐ Phone on silent/do-not-disturb mode
Mental Preparation
- ☐ Set realistic expectations for results
- ☐ Plan 1.5-2 hours of uninterrupted time
- ☐ Clear schedule for rest of day (no swimming/heavy workouts)
- ☐ Arrive with positive, relaxed mindset
- ☐ Prepare questions for your lash artist
After Your Appointment
Immediate Aftercare (First 24-48 Hours)
- Keep lashes completely dry
- Avoid steam, humidity, and excessive sweating
- Don't touch, rub, or play with your new lashes
- Sleep on your back if possible
- Skip makeup on and around lashes
Schedule Your Follow-Up
Before leaving your Orange County appointment:
- Book your first fill (typically 2-3 weeks out)
- Get your lash artist's contact information
- Clarify policy for any concerns or issues
- Purchase recommended aftercare products
- Take a selfie to document your first set!
Proper preparation makes all the difference in your first lash extension experience. At Elegant Lashes by Katie, our Orange County lash artists are committed to ensuring you feel comfortable, informed, and excited about your new lashes. Follow these preparation tips, communicate openly with your artist, and get ready to fall in love with your gorgeous new look!
Ready for Your First Lash Appointment?
Visit our four convenient Orange County locations in Irvine, Tustin, Santa Ana, and Costa Mesa for your consultation and let our expert artists create your perfect look!