If you’ve been thinking about getting lash extensions for the first time, or want to make sure you’re prepared for your next fill? We know how exciting it is to wake up with effortlessly beautiful lashes, but a little prep goes a long way in making sure you get the best results possible. At Prolong Lash, we’re here to help you get the most out of your appointment with this comprehensive checklist and insider advice about what happens at an eyelash extension appointment from a seasoned lash artist and lash wearer.
How to Prepare for Your Lash Extension Appointment
Are you interested in learning what to expect during an eyelash extension appointment? If so, this blog's a must-read! It’s not just about showing up; preparation is the foundation of a beautiful, long-lasting set of lashes. Here are my tips on how to make sure you’re appointment-ready:
- Arrive with a clean face: No makeup, no oil-based products. Avoid mascara, eyeliner, or heavy skincare around the eye area. Residue can interfere with adhesion.
- Wash your lashes thoroughly: Use a professional lash cleanser or the best eyelash extension shampoo; this step is crucial. Products like Prolong Lash Cleanser are specifically designed for use with eyelash extensions, gently removing oils, makeup, and debris while being safe for both your extensions and eyes. Even though your lash artist will prep you with a fit-for-purpose cleanser before application, they’ll appreciate your effort in showing up prepared.
- Skip caffeine: It might seem like a small thing, but caffeine can make your eyes flutter or twitch without you even noticing. Staying relaxed and still during your appointment allows your lash artist to apply each extension precisely, resulting in a beautiful, flawless set.
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Know what style you want: Speak with your lash artist about the look you’re after, whether that be natural, dramatic, cat-eye, or doll-eye. Let your lash artist know if you're attending a special event or whether your lashes are for everyday wear.
Your lash artist will review your eye shape and help you make an informed choice about the lash style, thickness, and length they apply. Clear communication is critical to ensure you’re happy with the end result.

What Happens at an Eyelash Extension Appointment
If it’s your first time, you might be wondering exactly what happens at an eyelash extension appointment. Here’s a guide to what to expect:
- Consultation: Your lash artist will discuss your eye shape, lash health, and desired style to customize the perfect look.
- Preparation: Your lashes will be cleaned again with a lash cleanser or eyelash shampoo to ensure perfect adhesion. Your lower lashes are taped down for a standard upper lash application.
- Application: Individual extensions, or clusters for volume lashes, are carefully attached to individual natural lashes using a professional-grade adhesive. This process can take between 1–4 hours, I know is a broad guideline, but the time taken will be determined by the style and thickness you choose. Your lash artist will determine the time required during your consultation.
- Final Check and Aftercare Chat: Your lash artist will ensure everything is perfect and share aftercare tips (hint: stock up on Prolong Lash Cleanser to care for them at home!). You can expect to receive advice and an aftercare prompt card to ensure you’re prepared to manage your lash care at home.
A lash appointment is a relaxing experience, so feel free to close your eyes and unwind during your appointment.

Pre-Appointment Etiquette to Reduce Last-Minute Cancellations
Respecting your lash artist’s time builds trust and ensures you get the best possible service. Last-minute cancellations or no-shows can harm your relationship and sometimes your wallet, so what's expected will be extremely useful:
- Plan ahead: Choose appointment times you know you can keep.
- Know the salon’s policy: Many artists charge fees for late cancellations or missed appointments. It’s good to know about this upfront so you don’t get stung with no-show fees.
- Communicate early: If you need to reschedule, provide as much notice as possible. Your artist will appreciate your respect.
- Be on time: Arriving promptly ensures you get your full appointment time and achieve the best results.
Good etiquette helps you maintain a strong relationship with your lash artist and secures your spot in a busy lashing schedule.

Post-Appointment Expectations and Aftercare
Your fresh new set deserves the best care! A thoughtful aftercare routine not only keeps your lashes looking stunning but also helps maintain the health of your natural lashes.
- Can you Wash Them? The answer is Yes, you can! And you should! Forget the old “no water for 24–48 hours” rule. Modern adhesives cure fast, so it’s safe and actually recommended to gently cleanse your lashes, even on the same day. This removes adhesive residue that can cause irritation or reactions.
- Don’t Stress About Water Exposure: Advances in lash glue mean there’s no need to worry about the glue turning hard or white if wet. Your lash artist uses products designed for durability so that you can wash with confidence.
- Make Gentle Cleansing a Habit: Using a high-quality, oil-free lash cleanser, such as Prolong Lash Cleanser, helps keep your extensions clean, fluffy, and healthy.
- Daily Care Matters: Clean your lashes twice daily with a professional eyelash extension shampoo to prevent buildup of makeup, oils, and debris that can build up at the base of the lashes.
- Keep Them Tidy: Gently brush with a clean spoolie to keep your lashes looking neat and perfectly separated.
Consistent, gentle aftercare is the secret to long-lasting, beautiful extensions that truly enhance your natural beauty.

The Importance of Ongoing Maintenance
Lash extensions are an investment in looking and feeling your best. Maintaining them properly ensures you get the full value and keep your lashes looking stunning.
- Book regular fills: It's typical to schedule fills every 2–3 weeks to maintain fullness.
- Stick to your aftercare routine: Using the best eyelash extension shampoo, like Prolong Lash Cleanser, helps prevent premature shedding caused by the buildup of oils or debris on the lashes. Regular cleansing with Prolong Lash cleanser helps prevent the buildup of makeup residue, sweat, dead skin cells, and environmental bacteria.
- Follow your artist’s care advice: They know your lashes best and can help you choose the right care routine and products.
Your lash artist is there to help you maintain healthy, beautiful lashes that enhance your natural beauty.

Ready for Your Best Lash Appointment Ever?
At Prolong Lash, we believe beautiful lashes start with knowledge and preparation. By following this checklist from preparation to aftercare, you’ll not only protect your investment, but you’ll have in-depth knowledge about what happens at an eyelash extension appointment, which will set you up to enjoy lush, long-lasting extensions that turn heads for weeks.
Ready to level up your lash game? Explore our Prolong Lash Cleanser, the best eyelash extension shampoo designed by lash artists for lash lovers like you. Do you have questions or tips of your own? Share them with us in the comments or check out our other lash care resources. Let’s keep those lashes looking flawless together!