If you are interested in getting eyelash extensions done for the first time or recently moved to a new city like London and are on the hunt for a new lash artist, here are a few tips to help you pick the right one for you.

1. Are they certified and licensed?
This is by far the most important thing to consider when looking for a new lash artist. Being licensed means your potential artist has successfully trained with a reputable lash artist or industry brand and is insured by an accredited body. This means they will have at minimum, a basic knowledge of bacterial sanitation and proper application techniques for long-term eyelash health.

The majority of certified lash artists have been trained specifically in eyelash extensions. Going to an artist who is up to date in the industry and who invests in annual ongoing training is the type of lash artist you’d want to have servicing you as they will be using the latest and best practices, as well as advise you should any issues pop up later down the line.

2. They have you read and sign consent forms before your first treatment

A lash artist who is professional and licensed will make sure that you are fully informed and understand any potential risks and contraindications, either at the time of booking or at your first visit to the salon before your treatment starts. As with any procedure there are rare but possible risks such as allergies to lash adhesive. You’ll usually be asked for consent on having before and after photos taken of your lashes too.

3. They offer eyelash consultations

If it’s your first time having lash extensions there should be an opportunity at the appointment or at consultation to have a chat with the lash artist and go over any questions or concerns, as well as get advice on the appropriate type, length and curl suitable for your face and eye shape. The lash artist will educate you on your options and give an honest opinion if a certain style for example - a heavy, mega volume set wouldn’t be supported by your natural lashes and they might advise a healthier alternative close to the look you’d like to achieve but which your natural lashes can hold. There should also be an opportunity to patch test, usually along with your consultation to help rule out potential adhesive allergies.

4. The lash artist posts photos of their work regularly

Regular before and after photos of their work posted to social media or their website shows that they have frequent clients and therefore have regular practice in applying eyelash extensions which can be a fiddly job at times even for experienced lash artists. Their photos are not stock photos of other people’s work and show close-ups of the work quality at the lash roots as well as from the front view or final look.

5. Research and read their online reviews
This will give you an idea of other people’s experiences and help you make a decision on whether you feel that lash artist would be a good fit for you.

6. The salon space is clean, organised and professional.
The atmosphere should feel relaxing and hygienic. Tools are sterilised and linens switched between clients. The work area is tidy and sterile and the lash artist practices good hygiene by sanitising and washing their hands before starting your treatment.

7. Appropriate for your budget

If you’re looking to do russian volume or mega volume lash extensions, it’s worth going to a more experienced lash artist who may be priced higher as these sets require more advanced techniques and the lash artist will likely have at least a year’s experience before being able to do these. If you’re willing to have some patience there are great lash artists out there who are starting out in their career charging a lower rate and who do beautiful work, but might take longer to complete a set. For example a lash artist with several years experience may take 1.5hrs to complete a classic full set and a newer lash artist can take up to 3hrs.

Higher prices reflect the level of training, certification, experience and expertise level accumulated by a lash artist, so this will likely affect the lash artist’s skill in giving style recommendations and in the variety of lash styles they can achieve for you.