Lash Like a Pro: 10 Common Mistakes Beginners Make (And How to Fix Them)

Posted by GladGirl Team on July 05, 2025

Whether you're just starting your journey as a lash artist or experimenting at home, mastering lash extensions takes time, patience, and the right tools. Even seasoned professionals once made the same mistakes most beginners face today. But don’t worry—we’ve got your back (and your lashes). Below, we’ll walk through 10 common beginner mistakes and how to fix them, plus product recommendations from GladGirl to help you lash like a pro.

1. Skipping Proper Lash Cleansing

Issue: Failing to clean natural lashes before application results in poor retention. Oils, makeup, and debris prevent adhesives from bonding properly.

Fix: Use a lash-safe cleanser like GladGirl Wash & Wink Lash Shampoo and Cleansing Brushes to prep lashes thoroughly. Additionally, a lash primer can be used with micro brushes to remove stubborn natural oils that build up on the natural lashes.

2. Using Too Much or Old Glue

Issue: More glue doesn’t mean better hold—it can actually cause clumping or slow drying. Old glue will be stringy and lack proper viscosity.

Fix: Use GladGirl Professional Lash Adhesives with GladGirl Lash Rings and Palettes, such as: jade stones, glue trays or glue rings for precise control. Use an adhesive mixer and storage jar to assure proper glue viscosity and storage. For even more Lash Glue tips, visit our FAQs

3. Environmental Conditions

Issue: Room humidity and temperature are the two greatest issues that can affect eyelash extension application and retention. 

Fix: Assure your room is the proper temperature and humidity level for proper lash adhesive curing and lash placement with a GladGirl Hygrometerand humidifier or nano mister.

4.Incorrect Isolation &Poor Lash Placement

Issue: Applying lashes too close to the eyelid or too far away can lead to discomfort and premature shedding. Additionally, not isolating natural lashes properly can cause lash sticking and discomfort for the client.

Fix: Lashes should be placed 0.5–1mm away from the lash line for a safe and natural look. Practice your isolation technique with practice lashes,mannequin faces, and with the best fine-tipped isolation and application tweezers, and be patient.

5. Choosing the Wrong Lash Style

Issue: Not all lashes fit every eye shape. A dramatic D curl might overwhelm hooded eyes, while J curls may look too subtle on almond eyes. 

Fix: Use the GladGirl Complete Collection Mixed Curl, Thickness and Length for the widest variety of eyelash extensions to customize every set for every customer. Use GladGirl Lash ChartPoster and Style Guide to review styles and lash specifics with your customers - a little planning goes a long way towards the perfect lash set.

6. Ignoring Aftercare Instructions

Issue: Many clients unknowingly ruin their extensions by not keeping them clean and exposing them to steam, oil, makeup or makeup removers not formulated for eyelash extensions.

Fix: Send clients home with an aftercare kit, including Lash Shampoo, lash brush, spoolie brushes, and a fill-in appointment reminder and aftercare printed card.

7. Not Refilling Your Tools

Issue: Using old, dried-out glue or dull tweezers can sabotage your work.

Fix: Always replace adhesive every 4–6 weeks (depending on how often you're lashing) and keep backup application tools on hand. Eyelash Extension Tweezer Cleaner can remove glue buildup and extend the lift of your tweezers.

8. Rushing Through the Process

Issue: Speed comes with experience. Rushing can lead to messy placement, uneven sets, and unhappy clients.

Fix: Focus on quality over speed. A beautiful, clean set is always worth the extra time.

9. Neglecting Lash Mapping

Issue: Freestyling might work for some, but mapping ensures symmetry and a flattering design.

Fix: Use GladGirl gel pads and lash mapping stickers to plan out your design before you begin and keep track of what works best for each customer with our client history form.

10. A Healthy, Productive Lash Artist Workspace 

Issue:Effective lash artistry isn’t only about precision, creativity, and the perfect lash map—it's also about protecting your body while you work. Proper ergonomics ensure that lash artists can deliver flawless results consistently, without risking long-term strain or injury. By designing a workstation with intentional ergonomics, artists maintain comfort, prevent fatigue, and support career longevity.

Fix: Proper lash ergonomics begin with maintaining a neutral, upright posture supported by an adjustable esthetician chair, while positioning the client so their eye line sits at or slightly below chest level to prevent leaning or neck strain. A well-lit workstation with adjustable LED lighting allows you to see clearly without hunching. A clean, uncluttered workspace further enhances comfort, efficiency, and overall application quality.

1. Clean lashes thoroughly before application
2. Use the right amount of adhesive
3. Isolate each lash with precision tweezers
4. Place lashes 0.5–1 mm from the lash line for optimal comfort and retention
5. Choose a lash style that complements the client’s eye shape
6. Educate clients on proper after-care
7. Replace old adhesive and tools regularly
8. Work carefully—quality over speed
9. Use a lash map for consistent, symmetrical results
10. Practice regularly to refine your technique
    

Becoming a lash pro doesn’t happen overnight—but with the right habits and tools, you’ll get there faster than you think. Explore GladGirl’s professional lash products to stock your kit with everything you need to succeed.