Essential Eyelash Extension Supplies A Complete Guide for Lash Artists

As a lash artist, you need the right tools to do a good job. This guide lists all the important items for lash extension services so you can give your clients safe and beautiful lashes that last. Here's what you'll need in your professional lash kit:

• Lash Extensions
• Professional Curls
• Lash Adhesives
• Professional Tweezers
• Eye Protection Products
• Medical-Grade Tapes
• Lash Primers
• Professional Cleansers
• Protein Removers
• Adhesive Removers
• Application Brushes

1. Eyelash Extensions

Classic Eyelash Extensions

Classic lash extensions are applied in a 1:1 ratio - one extension to one natural lash. These extensions range from 0.10mm to 0.15mm in diameter for optimal attachment and durability. For Asian lashes and finer natural lashes, 0.10mm, and 0.12mm provide natural-looking enhancement, while 0.15mm offers more definition for clients with stronger natural lashes. Classic extensions create a polished, defined look perfect for clients wanting everyday enhancement or those new to lash extensions.

Volume Eyelash Extensions

Volume eyelash extension techniques involve applying multiple ultra-fine extensions (typically 0.05mm-0.07mm) to create a fan on each natural lash. These delicate extensions are either handmade during the application or come as premade fans. 2D-3D volume uses 2-3 extensions per natural lash for a fuller look, while 4D-6D creates more dramatic volume. Despite using multiple extensions, proper volume fans often weigh less than a single classic extension due to their ultra-fine diameter.

Mega Volume Extensions

Mega volume techniques utilize extremely fine extensions (0.03mm-0.05mm) to create fans of 7-16 extensions per natural lash. These extensions require advanced application skills and precise weight distribution. The result is an incredibly fluffy, dramatic volume that still maintains lash health when applied correctly. This technique is ideal for clients with strong natural lashes who desire maximum fullness.

Hybrid Sets

Hybrid sets combine classic and volume techniques in one application. They typically mix individual classic extensions (0.10mm-0.15mm) with volume fans (0.05mm-0.07mm) to create textured, multidimensional effects. This versatile style allows technicians to customize the ratio of classic to volume for each client's desired look, usually ranging from 40/60 to 60/40 classic-to-volume ratio.

Flat Lash Extensions

Flat lashes, also called ellipse or cashmere lashes, feature an oval-shaped base rather than round. This design creates fuller-looking sets while maintaining lightweight comfort. Available in both classic (0.10mm-0.15mm) and volume (0.07mm) options, flat lashes offer excellent coverage and can create dramatic looks with fewer extensions. Their unique shape also provides strong adhesion to natural lashes.

All extension types typically come in lengths from 8mm to 15mm, allowing for natural-looking graduation. Inner corners usually use 8-10mm, mid-lash area 10-12mm, and outer corners 11-15mm, depending on the client's natural lashes and desired style.

2. Lash Curls

Natural Enhancement Curls

The J Curl represents the most natural-looking option, designed with a 15-20° bend. Perfect for clients with straight, downward-pointing lashes, J Curl adds length and subtle lift without appearing obviously enhanced. However, avoid using J Curl on downward-growing lashes as it can make eyes appear smaller.

B Curl offers a 30-35° curl, providing slightly more lift than J Curl while maintaining a natural appearance. Ideal for clients with straight lashes that grow forward or slightly upward, B Curl creates excellent retention due to its gradual curve. This curl type works particularly well for male clients or those preferring subtle enhancement.

Standard Professional Curls

C Curl is the most versatile and popular choice, featuring a 45-50° curl that creates a perfect balance between natural and glamorous looks. Suitable for most clients, especially those with slightly curled natural lashes, C Curl opens up the eye while maintaining a professional appearance. This curl works well for clients with straight to slightly downward-angled lashes.

D Curl (also known as CC Curl) provides a more dramatic 60-65° curl, making it excellent for clients desiring noticeable lift. Particularly effective for downward-growing lashes, D Curl creates an eye-opening effect. However, use caution with hooded eyes or upward-growing lashes, as the pronounced curl may touch the eyelid.

Specialty Enhancement Curls

L and L+ Curls feature a unique design with a straight base that transitions into an upward curl. L Curl has a 45° lift, while L+ offers a slightly stronger curl at 50°. These curls excel at creating lifts for hooded eyes, deep-set eyes, and mature clients with drooping eyelids. The straight base provides excellent adhesion while the curved end delivers beautiful lift.

M Curl is specifically designed for stubborn downward-growing lashes, featuring a slight downward base that curves dramatically upward (70°). This design helps lift challenging lashes without compromising retention. However, avoid using M Curl on clients with upward-growing or hooded eyes.

U Curl (also known as DD Curl) provides the most dramatic curl at 70-80°, creating an intense eye-opening effect. Perfect for clients with very downward-growing lashes who want maximum lift, U Curl should be used selectively and isn't suitable for clients with sensitive or hooded eyes.

For optimal results, many professionals maintain an inventory of multiple curl types, often combining different curls within the same set for customized enhancement. Always assess both the natural lash direction and eye shape before selecting your curl type.

3. Lash Adhesives

Fast-Drying Glue

This glue is best for lash artists who have a lot of experience and can work fast. It dries in just 1 to 2 seconds, so you have to place each lash correctly on the first try since there won’t be time to move it once it's down. It’s great for keeping your appointments short because you don't have to wait for the glue to dry. However, remember to store this glue properly because it can go bad quickly if not stored right.

Sensitive Glue

Some clients might get irritated by regular lash glue. For them, you’ll want to use sensitive glue, which is less likely to cause redness or irritation. This glue doesn't hold as strongly as others, so lashes might not last quite as long, meaning clients might need to come back more often for touch-ups. Before using it, do a small test on your client to make sure they won't react badly. Sensitive glue usually takes longer to dry, around 3-4 seconds, but it’s worth it for the comfort of those with sensitive eyes.

Glue for High/Low Humidity Conditions

The amount of moisture in the air can mess with how well lash glue works. If it's very damp or very dry where you're working, you’ll need special eyelash glue. In a humid place, use glue made to handle the extra moisture so it won't set too fast and cause the lashes to stick together. In dry conditions, use a glue that can still dry properly without the air being moist. These specialized glues help you do consistent work no matter what the weather is like. They typically take about 2-4 seconds to set, depending on whether they're made for high or low humidity.

4. Professional Tweezers

Isolation Tweezers

Isolation tweezers serve as your primary precision tool for separating natural lashes. The most effective professional isolation tweezers feature straight tips with 0.10mm precision points. These tweezers should be slightly firmer than your working tweezers, allowing clean separation without damaging natural lashes. For optimal control, choose titanium-coated or stainless steel models with ergonomic grips.

Volume Tweezers

Volume tweezers require extremely precise tips for creating and placing fans. Professional volume tweezers come with curved tips measuring 0.07mm-0.15mm. For handmade volume sets, select tweezers with a 45-degree angle curve and 0.07mm tips for optimal fan creation. For premade fan application, 0.15mm curved tips provide better control and placement accuracy.

Placement Tweezers

Placement tweezers are specifically designed for attaching extensions to natural lashes. These typically feature a 15mm curved tip with 0.15mm precision points. The curve should match your dominant hand's natural movement - right-handed lash technicians generally work best with right-curved tweezers, while left-handed lash artists need left-curved options.

Length Requirements:

• Isolation tweezers: 110-120mm total length
• Volume tweezers: 115-125mm total length
• Placement tweezers: 120-130mm total length

All professional tweezers must meet these quality standards:

• Medical-grade stainless steel or titanium construction
• Anti-magnetic properties to prevent extension attraction
• Anti-static coating to maintain precise control
• Mirror-finish surface for optimal visibility
• Precision-aligned tips for accurate closure

Here's how you can choose which tweezer tips to use for different kinds of lash extension sets:

Set Type	Application	Tip Specification	Tip Type
Classic Sets	Isolation	0.10mm	Straight
	Placement	0.15mm	Curved
Volume Sets	Isolation	0.10mm	Straight
	Fan-making	0.07mm	Curved
	Placement	0.15mm	Curved
Mega Volume Sets	Isolation	0.08mm	Straight
	Fan-making	0.05mm	Curved
	Placement	0.12mm	Curved

 

5. Eye Protection Products

Hydrogel Eye Pads

In lash studios, hydrogel eye pads are popular because they stick in place and moisturize at the same time. They're used to keep lower lashes out of the way and comfort clients with their cool, hydrating feel. These pads contain lots of water, which helps prevent the skin beneath the eyes from getting dry during a lash service. They're a favorite for professionals because they don't budge while you work, but they're also easy and painless to take off when you're done.

Collagen Eye Pads

Collagen eye pads do more than just protect; they treat the under-eye area with a skincare bonus. Clients who want to look younger or more refreshed often like these pads. They're softer and might need a little spritz of water or saline solution now and then to stay moist during long appointments. Despite needing extra care, they offer lash artists a chance to upgrade their service, adding a touch of luxury.

Lint-Free Gel Pads

When things get busy in the salon, lint-free gel pads are super handy. They stick solidly, giving a stable base for applying lashes accurately. They may not have the extra skincare ingredients that other pads do, but they're good at keeping unwanted material off the skin. This choice is all about practicality and helping lash artists work quickly and safely.

The correct pad size is critical for client comfort and effective lash application:

• Consider the regular size, typically around 6cm x 2.5cm, which fits the average eye shape, providing ample coverage without encroaching on the lash line.
• Large pads, perhaps 7cm x 3cm, offer better coverage for clients with more pronounced under-eye areas or those who need extra care due to sensitivity.
• Mini pads, often measuring around 5cm x 2cm, are excellent for petite facial features or clients with less space between their cheekbone and lower lash line.

Being well-stocked with various sizes ensures that lash artists can accommodate a diverse clientele, providing personalized care for each individual's unique eye shape.

6. Professional Tapes

Professional lash services require different types of medical-grade tapes to secure and protect your client's skin and lashes. Each type serves a specific purpose in your lash application process. Understanding when to use each type will help you provide better service and ensure client comfort.

Paper Tape

Medical-grade paper tape is your go-to option for most clients. It's breathable, gentle on the skin, and tears easily for precise application. Look for paper tape that's 0.5 inch in width – this size provides adequate coverage while allowing precise placement. White paper tape helps you see your work clearly, while micropore versions offer extra gentleness for sensitive skin.

Foam Tape

When working on detailed volume sets or with clients who need extra protection, foam tape provides additional cushioning. The ideal thickness is 1-1.5mm, offering protection without being bulky. Choose foam tape with medical-grade adhesive that's strong enough to stay in place but removes easily without leaving residue. This type works especially well for clients with deep-set eyes or those needing extended protection during longer appointments.

Silk Tape

For clients with sensitive skin or those prone to reactions, silk tape offers the gentlest option. It's ultra-thin yet secure, and its smooth surface prevents irritation. Professional silk tape should be translucent enough to see through while working but strong enough to hold throughout the service. This is particularly useful for clients with mature skin or those who've had reactions to other tape types.

7. Lash Primers

Lash primers are designed to cleanse natural lashes before the extension application. They effectively remove oils, dirt, and makeup residue, creating an ideal surface for eyelash adhesive to bond. A clean lash surface helps extensions stay on longer, making primers a must-have in any lash service.

Some lash primers come with added vitamins and amino acids to provide extra care for the natural lashes. These nourishing formulas can help reinforce the strength and elasticity of the lashes, which is particularly beneficial for clients who wear extensions regularly.

There are various types of lash primers tailored for different lash conditions:

• Clear Primers: Best for general use, suitable for all clients, and great for a strong, clean bonding surface without altering the natural color of the lashes.
• Tinted Primers: These can add a subtle tint to the natural lashes, enhancing the overall look of the extensions, especially for those with lighter-colored lashes.
• Protein-rich Primers: Ideal for clients with weak or damaged lashes, as they help reinforce the natural lash fibers.
• Moisture-retaining Primers: Perfect for clients with dry lashes, providing hydration to prevent brittle lashes that could compromise extension adherence.

8. Professional Lash Cleansers

Professional lash cleansers are essential for both in-salon use and client aftercare. Each type serves specific purposes in your lash service routine, with formulations designed to maintain extension integrity while ensuring proper hygiene. The right cleanser can significantly impact retention rates and overall lash health.

Foam Cleansers: Your Professional Standard

Professional foam cleansers have become the industry standard for good reason. Their lightweight, airy texture effectively removes debris and oils without putting pressure on extensions. Look for foam cleansers with a balanced pH (around 5.5-6.5) that create rich, dense foam. Quality professional formulas should be:

• Oil-free yet effective at removing oil-based makeup
• Gentle enough for twice-daily use
• Quick-drying without leaving residue
• Safe for all extension types

Liquid Cleansers: Deep Cleaning Power

Professional liquid cleansers offer more intensive cleaning capabilities for specific situations. These formulas excel at removing stubborn makeup and environmental buildup. The best professional liquid cleansers feature:

• Non-glycol based formulas
• Quick-breaking surfactants
• Anti-bacterial properties
• Clear, residue-free finish

Professional Formulations for Salon Use

Your in-salon cleansers should meet strict professional standards:

• Medical-grade ingredients
• Highly concentrated formulas
• Extension-safe surfactants
• Fast-acting yet gentle
• Compatible with all adhesive types

Quality lash cleansers are essential for both professional application and client maintenance. Educating clients about proper cleansing techniques and providing them with appropriate products will improve their extension longevity and your salon's reputation.

9. Protein Removal Products

Protein Removal Pads

These are straightforward, time-saving tools for lash artists. Each pad comes ready to use and is infused with a solution designed to clean the lashes quickly. They are particularly handy for tackling oil, makeup, and everyday buildup on clients' lashes with minimal fuss.

Liquid Protein Removers

For clients with thicker lashes or more oily skin, liquid protein removers offer a deeper clean. As a lash artist, you'll apply this with a disposable tool, allowing you to use just the right amount for each client's lashes. This careful application ensures that every lash is free from oils and ready for extensions.

Foaming Protein Removers

The foamy version of protein removers provides a mild yet thorough cleaning option, which clients with sensitive eyes will appreciate. It even spreads over the lashes to make sure no spot is missed in the cleaning process, preparing a solid foundation for extension application.

Enzymatic Protein Remover Gels

If precision is what you're after, enzymatic gel removers are your go-to. These gels stick to where you put them, so they don't irritate the eyes while they work to dissolve proteins on the lashes. They're an excellent choice for lash artists who prioritize accuracy and gentle yet effective cleansing.

10. Adhesive Removers

Cream Removers

Professional cream removers offer the most controlled removal process. Their thick consistency prevents unwanted dripping and provides excellent coverage. These removers typically take 3-5 minutes to break down adhesive bonds and work best for:

• Full set removals
• Clients with sensitive eyes
• Situations requiring precise control
• Professional removal services

The cream should be applied with a micro-brush in small sections, working from the outer to the inner corner. The thick consistency allows you to target specific areas without affecting surrounding extensions.

Gel Removers

Professional gel removers offer a balance between control and speed, typically breaking down adhesive bonds in 2-3 minutes. Their unique properties make them ideal for:

• Partial removals
• Fixing placement errors
• Touch-up work
• Quick corrections during the application

Apply gel removers using a fine-tipped applicator for precise placement. The semi-solid consistency prevents running while maintaining enough flow for easy application.

Liquid Removers

Professional liquid removers work fastest, dissolving adhesive bonds in 1-2 minutes. These are best suited for:

• Experienced technicians
• Volume set removals
• Full set removal services
• Situations requiring quick turnaround

Use extreme caution with liquid removers as they can spread quickly. Apply with precision using micro-brushes and keep cotton pads ready to control any excess.

11. Professional Brushes

Mascara Wands

Essential for grooming and separating both natural lashes and extensions, mascara wands come in various shapes and sizes. They're used to brush through lashes before, during, and after the application of extensions to prevent clumping and ensure a flawless finish. Disposable options promote hygiene by preventing cross-contamination between clients.

Micro Brushes

These small, precision tools allow lash artists to apply products like primers, removers, and sealants with control and accuracy. The fine tips make it easy to work with individual lashes or small sections, essential for detailed work without disturbing the rest of the lash line.

Liner Brushes

Fine liner brushes are perfect for applying eyeliner on clients who request makeup after their extension service. They can also be used during the process to remove excess adhesive gently or to separate lashes. Their thin bristles offer unparalleled precision for intricate tasks.

Fan Brushes

Fan brushes are typically used at the end of the lash application process to apply a gentle breeze and help speed up the drying of the adhesive. Additionally, they can be utilized to delicately dust away any loose particles or debris from the lashes without direct contact.

Lash Cleansing Brushes

Specially designed with soft bristles, these brushes are ideal for deep cleaning the lashes and eye area. When performing full-service lash maintenance, these brushes work wonderfully with foaming lash cleansers to ensure the lashes are completely clean and free from buildup.

For professional lash artists, having a variety of high-quality brushes ensures that they can provide meticulous care and attention to detail in every aspect of the eyelash extension process. Not only do these specialized brushes help in achieving the desired lash look, but they also maintain the integrity of the extensions and the health of the natural lashes.

Start Building Your Professional Kit Today

As a lash artist, it's time to perfect your professional kit. Your lash studio needs the best of the basics, like top-notch eyelash extensions and the right tools, as well as some advanced gear to really stand out. Take a good look at what you've got and think about what needs improving. Begin by investing in the essentials: good-quality extensions, reliable glues, and the right tools for the job. Quality supplies lead to quality results, and quality results build a loyal client base.