Currently, we are fortunate to live in a time where the answer to any question we have is in our pocket, and it is thanks to this that we can absorb and share information quickly and easily. However, when it comes to protecting our safety as lashmakers, this can be dangerous.
The rapid growth of the lashmaking industry is incredible, and many of us (including myself) are happy to be able to share information and help each other. The real problem is not this, but the quality of information that we transmit and how it can affect our quality of work, and even more importantly, our security.
Thanks to the domino effect and the presence of social networks, the information can be easily spread. For this reason, it is important to carefully handle what we read and avoid spreading incorrect data. If we want to continue growing as an industry, we must change our information consumption habits.
Ensuring our safety as lashmakers from learning
The problem of false (and potentially dangerous) information originates from our formation. This is particularly true in Latin America, where regulations and standards for lashmaking do not yet exist.
Therefore, your first priority when looking for training should be to get a certified professional, who can teach you about safety regulations while teaching techniques.
In my experience in Europe, where such regulations exist, design was a big part of training, but it was not all. An example of things I learned, for example, is the importance of knowing the properties of the adhesives we use.
The glue that we use to place eyelash extensions is very important, not only because it affects the duration of the eyelashes that we design, but because it must be resistant to various conditions without becoming toxic or dangerous.
In addition to knowing if it complies with ISO and SGS safety standards, it is important to be careful with its handling and to know the potential risks to act accordingly. For example, if the eyelash adhesive comes in contact with natural fibers, such as cotton, this could cause a fire.
Depending on how specialized or professional your knowledge is, it will be easier for you to distinguish between a good product (or one that is not) based on its compounds and / or performance.
How can we verify the veracity of our knowledge?
As tempting as it may seem to enter a low-priced class or course to acquire a new skill, the reality is that a professional eyelash artist is not only recognized for her design and use of various techniques, but also for her professionalism and ability to work safely for the client and herself.
Until the protocols on lashmaking in Latin America are regularized, the ideal is for you to seek certifications with professionals from recognized (and probably international) academies. In this way, you will not only have excellent knowledge to design incredible tabs, but you will also know how to react to any case, what to do, and what to use.
Where can we start?
If you have already started in the lashist world, it is even more important that you learn about your safety as a lashmaker. Ideally, you should start by knowing the potential hazards of the chemicals you work with, and choosing products that meet safety regulations.
In addition to this, consider investing in professional courses to be able to fill in the information gaps that you have and to disprove myths: this will give you firm foundations to be an excellent artist. Whether these are dangerous or only result in your technique, it’s always a good idea to keep improving!