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!