Overview
This unit is about providing eyelash extension treatments involving the use of individual eyelashes. Learners will gain the ability to attach, maintain and remove individual eyelash extension systems as well as developing an understanding of the products used and suitable aftercare advice to be given.
To carry out this unit, learners will need to maintain effective health, safety and hygiene throughout working practices. Learners will also need to maintain personal appearance and effective communication techniques with the client.
Learning outcomes
On completion of this unit, learners will:
Know the salon requirements for individual eyelash extension application
Understand the effects, choices and application of individual eyelash extensions
Be able to prepare the client, self, and work area for individual eyelash extension application
Be able to provide, maintain and remove individual eyelash extension systems
Assessment requirements
Learners must produce a portfolio of evidence which includes:
Treatment portfolio
Summative practical assessment
Treatment portfolio
Learners must produce a treatment portfolio that includes evidence of individual eyelash extension treatments carried out with proficiency
At a minimum the treatment portfolio for this unit must include client consultation and treatment records covering all of the following:
A minimum of 4 individual eyelash extension applications. The learner must have carried out these treatments on at least 3 different clients to include:
A full set of individual eyelash extensions
A partial set of individual eyelash extensions
A complete set of infills (maintenance)
Used all products
Non-oily eye cleanser
Pre-lash primer
Adhesives
Eyelash extensions (various lengths, curvature, colour, thickness)
Adhesive remover
Eye gel patches
Eye wash solution
Antiseptic swabs
Hand sanitiser
Used all tools
Micropore tape
Air blower
X-type tweezers
Straight tweezers with fine point
Disposable brushes and sponges where appropriate
Lash extension holder
Lash mat
Used all equipment
Magnifying lamp
Towels
Disposable paper roll
Tissue
Cotton wool
Pillow
Headband
Given all types of advice and recommendations
Aftercare
Avoidance of activities that may cause contra-actions
Post treatment restrictions
Products for home use that will benefit the client
Homecare and maintenance of individual lash extensions
The importance of professional removal and additional services
Evidence from the one summative practical assessment must also be presented in the portfolio.
The treatment portfolio must be completed prior to learners undertaking the one summative practical assessment.
The maximum service time for individual eyelash extension treatment is 120 minutes.
Summative practical assessment
Learners must carry out and complete an individual eyelash extension treatment which will be observed and marked by centre assessors.
The practical assessment must take place in a real or realistic working environment on a real client. At a minimum the summative practical assessment for this unit must cover:
Application of a full set of individual eyelash extensions
Recommended summative practical assessment time – 120 minutes
Recorded professional discussion can also be used as an assessment method attached to the practical assessment and is particularly useful for gathering evidence for criteria related to evaluation and reflection. Professional discussions should be planned and recorded.
Unit content
Know the salon requirements for individual eyelash extension application
Describe how to set up the work area:
Prepare the work area to allow for
Ease of access to all products, tools and equipment
Hygienic set up of work area
Effective lighting to promote accuracy
Correct positioning of client and therapist
Ensure a safe working environment
Clean and hygienic work area
Sufficient ventilation
Effective positioning of couch and salon chairs close to work surface to allow ergonomic and safe practice
Describe how professional beauty therapists present themselves:
Clean professional uniforms create a positive impression of the beauty therapist and the salon. Uniforms should be made from a comfortable fabric to facilitate movement throughout treatment
Beauty therapists should wear closed-in footwear, no jewellery, no piercings, hair neatly tied back, and any fringe secured, clean, short and well maintained nails
Personal hygiene and cleanliness including showering, covering cuts and abrasions, wearing deodorant or antiperspirant, oral hygiene (clean teeth, fresh breath), are all important elements of professional presentation
Explain the salon requirements for record keeping:
Accurate appointment systems, stationery, loyalty, rewards, acknowledgement of occasions
Consultation record keeping, contra-indications, signatures, reference to existing records, information clear, accurate and in logical order (name, address, contact numbers, age range, reason for treatment, occupation, sport/hobbies, medical history, current condition of nails, allergies/hypersensitivity, contact lenses, contra-actions)
Skin sensitivity tests, adaptations and modifications, recommendations
Treatment plan, update record at the end of the treatment, update at each visit, maintained electronically, paper records
Explain the importance of patch tests:
A patch test is designed to alert the therapist to any pre-disposed skin sensitivity on the client’s behalf. Any active, new or known ingredient that can potentially produce a reaction is usually patch tested 24-48 hours before treatment. All patch tests provided need to be noted and recorded, listing all products and where patch test took place on the body if appropriate, client signature and date
Patch testing for individual eyelash applications would include all active or new products to be used within the treatment such as the adhesive and adhesive remover. Client records need to be updated with results.
They are conducted to ascertain suitability of products and sensitivity of the client
Patch test application techniques
Cleanse area (either crook of elbow or behind ear)
Apply product to the area with a brush
Allow to dry
Leave on for a minimum of 24 hours
Explain positive and negative reactions
Remove excess product
Record results, products used and where placed on record card
Explain how to interpret results of the patch test:
Positive – red, itchy, irritated, swelling, sore
Negative – no change to skin
Explain the insurance requirements for individual eyelash extension treatments:
As a minimum a salon should hold where applicable employers liability insurance as well as public liability insurance and professional indemnity insurance
Describe the legal requirements for providing treatments to minors:
The age at which an individual is classed as a minor and how this differs nationally
Understand the effects, choices and application of individual eyelash extensions
Describe the factors that influence individual eyelash extension application treatments:
Pre-treatment tests – the client must have a patch test to check sensitivity 24-48 hours before treatment
Hair growth cycle should be considered as this affects growth and thickness of natural lashes
Thickness, length, and colour of natural lashes will affect product selection and the finished result
Client’s lifestyle may affect longevity of individual lash extensions
Age of client – a more mature client may require individual lash extensions that are lighter in colour and reduced in thickness
Professional removal must be recommended to prevent damage to the natural lashes
Incorrect removal of lash extensions
Describe the products used in individual eyelash extension treatments:
Non-oily eye cleanser, pre-lash primer, adhesives, eyelash extensions (various lengths, curvature, colour, thickness), adhesive remover, eye gel patches, eye wash solution, antiseptic swabs, hand sanitiser
Eyelash systems available – strip lashes, flares, semi-permanent lashes, eyelash extensions (thickness of lash – 0.10mm, 0.15mm, 0.20mm, 0.25mm), (curvature of lash – J, C, C Y, D, B), length of lash (6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 mm).
List the benefits of individual eyelash extension application treatments:
Enhances natural lashes
Opens eye area and corrects eye shape
Longer lasting lash effects for visual impact
Thickens the lashes and disguises any natural gaps
Provides confidence to the client
Replaces mascara for everyday wear, special occasions and holidays
Describe the limitations to the effects and applications of individual eyelash extension treatments:
Thin, sparse natural eyelashes
Short and weak eyelashes
Claustrophobic/nervous clients
Wearers of heavy eye make-up
Clients who touch their eyes and lashes often
Hypersensitive/watery eyes
Hay fever and other allergies
Eye shape and size
Describe how to maintain and remove (where appropriate) individual eyelash extensions:
Correct and safe removal of individual lash extensions
Avoidance of damage to natural lashes
Removal of products from natural lashes
Recommendations for maintenance every two weeks
Return to salon for safe removal
Explain the contra-indications to individual eyelash extension treatments that prevent or restrict treatment:
Examples of contra-indications that may prevent treatment – contagious diseases and disorders of the eye including conjunctivitis and blepharitis, trichotillomania, recent eye surgery and chemotherapy
Examples of contra-indications that may restrict treatment – psoriasis, styes, dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, contact lenses, thyroid imbalances
Explain how to refer the client to a health practitioner and why:
If a client presents with symptoms that are not identifiable the learner must refer the client to a health care practitioner for appropriate care and diagnosis. Therapists can refer the client directly to their general practitioners. They are not qualified to diagnose diseases and disorders
Common symptoms warranting referral
Undiagnosed eye diseases and disorders
Oedema and erythema in related treatment areas
Explain the possible contra-actions that may occur during or after individual eyelash extension application treatments:
Adhesive entering the eye, skin irritations, itchiness, redness, burning, swelling, watery eyes
Thickening of the cornea
Overstimulation of the meibomian gland
Describe how to effectively respond to contra-actions:
Discontinue treatment and take remedial action
Refer to GP if necessary and note on record card
Be able to prepare the client, self and work area for individual eyelash extension application
Prepare and check the client, work area, equipment and products for treatment:
Prepare treatment area according to salon requirements – ensure the area is well lit, with adequate ventilation
Prepare yourself and your client using appropriate products and techniques
Check the client by completing the consultation process
Ensure all equipment and products are to hand and are working efficiently
Use safe working practices
Positioning of yourself to avoid injury
Positioning of your client
Positioning of your equipment
Agree the treatment with the client and check for contra-indications or restrictions to treatment:
Verbal communication – use a speaking manner and tone suited to the client and your surroundings. Be sensitive to the client, use open questioning related to the treatment to establish their suitability for treatment
Non-verbal communication – eye contact, body language, listening
Perform a consultation with the client to check for contra-indications, ask relevant questions and document and record the client feedback. Prior to commencement of the treatment complete a visual observation of the treatment area to re-affirm client’s eligibility for treatment
Record keeping – contra-indication check, signatures, name, address, contact numbers, age range, reason for treatment, occupation, sports/hobbies, medical history, allergies/hyper-sensitivity, contact lenses, contra-actions, skin sensitivity tests
Ensure the client confirms agreement to treatment
Explain the treatment procedure taking into account the client’s expectations and other influencing factors:
Step-by-step explanation, using clear non-technical language and confirm client understanding
Ensure the client is clear about the areas to be treated, what clothing needs to be removed, the necessary positions to adopt for application
Instruct the client on how to prepare for the individual eyelash extension application:
Removal of clothing as appropriate, positioning throughout the treatment communicating clearly
Be able to provide, maintain and remove individual eyelash extension systems
Prepare the client’s eyes for treatment:
Remove or protect clothing as appropriate
Position the client with good support
Explain each stage of the treatment
The area should be cleansed using a suitable non-oily eye make-up remover
Establish
Hair growth pattern, length, colour and curvature of natural eyelashes
Current sensitivity levels, skin condition, medication and health concerns
Client expectations and wishes
Establish the client’s desired appearance of eyelashes before commencement of treatment:
Client preference, face and eye shape (round, almond, deep set eyes)
Natural – 30-50 lashes per eye
Enhanced – 50-70 lashes per eye
Thick and full – 80 plus lashes per eye
Select the products, tools, equipment and different systems available to carry out individual eyelash extension treatments:
Products – non-oily eye cleanser, pre-lash primer, adhesives, eyelash extensions (various lengths, curvature, colour, thickness), adhesive remover, eye gel patches, eye wash solution, antiseptic swabs, hand sanitiser
Tools – micropore tape, air blower, x-type tweezers, straight tweezers with fine point, disposable micro brushes, disposable sponge applicators, disposable mascara brushes, lash extension holder, lash mat
Equipment – magnifying lamp, towels, disposable paper roll, tissue, cotton wool, pillow, headband
Apply individual eyelash extensions in line with the manufacturer’s instructions:
Choose appropriate eyelash system as agreed with client
Select lashes of suitable length and thickness and adapt to create required effect
Use individual lash extension application techniques in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions and secure lashes in the required direction
Remove excess adhesive throughout the attachment process
Allow sufficient time for the adhesive to dry
Comb through lashes to blend individual lash extensions with the natural lashes
Achieve a well-balanced look that meets the client’s requirements
Reassure the client and communicate your positioning instructions clearly during the treatment
Provide aftercare advice:
Advise the client to avoid touching the eyes, do not use oil-based products, avoidance of any heat or water for the first 24 hours, maintenance appointments if required, professional removal of lashes
Provide maintenance treatments
Agree a time span for infill appropriate to the client’s individual needs
Follow manufacturers’ guidance
Importance of correct preparation
Removal of product build up and debris
Reapply extensions to infill gaps 1-2mm from eyelid
Update the client treatment records:
Maintain the client record card, complete with all necessary details e.g. thickness and curvature of lashes
Prepare the work area for the next treatment:
Dispose of all waste, clean equipment, sterilise all metal tools, sanitise working surface/work area, set up trolley, clean couch roll and position couch and chair, replace clean tools, stock up lashes for next treatment, ensure record card for next client is ready for completion
Employability skills to be demonstrated throughout the practical assessment
Communication:
Adapt and tailor approach for different clients e.g. new and existing clients, male and female clients
Allow sufficient time for the consultation and communicate clearly and concisely to explain the concept of the treatment/service, encouraging clients to ask questions and offer reassurance
Use positive verbal communication e.g. speaking manner and tone of voice, being supportive, respectful, sensitive to client, using open questioning to obtain information
Use positive non-verbal communication e.g. eye contact, body language, actively listening
Promote goodwill and trust by using good communication
Customer service:
Have an awareness of the principles of customer service e.g. quality, keeping promises, managing customer expectations, customer satisfaction, speed of services and treatments, offering reassurance
Show good practice in customer service e.g. meeting and exceeding customer needs and expectations, demonstrating a willingness to please the customer, treating the customer as an individual
Invest time in explaining the concept of the treatment/service clearly but concisely to the client, encouraging them to ask questions
Deal quickly and effectively with any complaints or issues e.g. know who to refer to if needed
Know the importance of customer service to a business e.g. professional image, reputation, customer retention, customer satisfaction, customer relationships
Know the impact of poor customer service e.g. dissatisfied customers will seek out competitors, loss of reputation, loss of profit, frequent complaints
Manage client expectations and identify requirements
Commercial and environmental awareness:
Adopt eco-friendly and cost-efficient use of resources, minimising waste e.g. all products measured correctly; efficient use and correct disposal of consumables and recycling where possible
Be aware of others and protect their ‘space’ when using products, specifically aerosols
e.g. sprays used in nail treatments or hair services
All used products will be disposed of in accordance with the salon rules and legislative guidelines
Ensure all electrical equipment switches are turned off when not in use
Identify opportunities to promote and sell additional products and treatments e.g. during consultation or when providing aftercare advice
Talk and actively listen to gain knowledge of client preferences and routines so that the retail selling approach is personalised
Be aware of competitors for commercial success e.g. local salon offers and promotions, new treatments/services
Know the unique selling points of treatments/services to offer the most appropriate advice
Know business goals and sales targets to encourage focus on the vision of the business and it’s long term goals e.g. seasonal promotional offers
Know how to advertise and display special offers, promotions e.g. local newspaper stories, awards, photographs, thank you letters/cards
Promote any loyalty schemes or special offers for repeat/new clients and the benefits of other products and services e.g. buy one get one free, introductory offers
Offer new/additional products and services to existing or new clients to promote self/salon experiences
Ensure the cost reflects the time taken to provide the treatment/service, reflecting commercial times allocated e.g. tailor cost to client characteristics
Skin cancer awareness
Please note this information will not be assessed for the achievement of this unit. Public awareness of skin cancer has never been higher, and yet skin cancer remains the fastest growing cancer in the UK, especially amongst young people. The chances of a positive outcome can be dramatically increased with early identification and diagnosis.
Professionals in hair, beauty, sports massage and health and wellbeing industries work closely with clients and in many cases have sight of areas of skin which may not be easily visible to the client. An informed awareness of the signs, symptoms and changes of appearance to be aware of when checking for early signs of cancer is a crucial tool for the conscientious practitioner in order to provide the most thorough service and in some cases, possibly lifesaving information signposting.
Signs to look for when checking moles include utilising the ABCDE guide:
A - Asymmetry – the two halves of the area/mole may differ in their shape and not match.
B - Border – the edges of the mole area may be irregular or blurred and sometimes show notches or look ‘ragged’.
C - Colour – this may be uneven and patchy. Different shades of black, brown and pink may be seen.
D - Diameter – most but not all melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter. If any mole gets bigger or changes see your doctor.
E - Elevation/evolving – elevation means the mole is raised above the surface and has an uneven surface. Looks different from the rest or changing in size, shape or colour. Anyone can get a suspicious mole or patch of skin checked out for free by the NHS by visiting their doctor, who may then refer to a dermatologist (an expert in diagnosing skin cancer).
If your learners are interested in learning more about skin cancer awareness alongside this qualification, VTCT runs the following qualification: VTCT Level 2 Award in Skin Cancer Awareness for Non-Healthcare Professionals.
This qualification has been specifically designed for those working in the sports massage, health and wellbeing, beauty, hairdressing and barbering sectors. It will enable learners to identify any changes to their client’s skin and to highlight those changes to the client using appropriate language and communication skills. It will enable the learner to raise awareness of skin cancer and signpost their clients to public information about skin cancer.
This qualification will enable hair, beauty and wellbeing professionals to gain the appropriate knowledge and communication skills required to provide non-diagnostic, professional advice and information to clients in a discrete, empathetic and confidential manner.
Assessment criteria
In order to pass this unit, learners must achieve all pass criteria. The pass criteria relate to the proficient demonstration of skills and knowledge.
Assessment guidance
Assessors must use the amplified assessment guidance in this section to judge whether assessment criteria have been achieved in the practical assessment.
Know the salon requirements for individual eyelash extension application
P1 Describe how to set up the work area
P2 Describe how professional beauty therapists present themselves
P3 Explain the salon requirements for record keeping
P4 Explain the importance of patch tests
P5 Explain how to interpret results of a patch test
P6 Explain the insurance requirements for individual eyelash extension treatments
P7 Describe the legal requirements for providing treatments to minors
Understand the effects, choices and application of individual eyelash extensions
P8 Describe the factors that influence individual eyelash extension application treatments
P9 Describe the products used in individual eyelash extension treatments
P10 List the benefits of individual eyelash extension application treatments
P11 Describe the limitations to the effects and applications of individual eyelash extension treatments
P12 Describe how to maintain and remove (where appropriate) individual eyelash extensions
P13 Explain the contra-indications to individual eyelash extension treatments that prevent or restrict treatment
P14 Explain how to refer the client to a health practitioner and why
P15 Explain the possible contra-actions that may occur during or after individual eyelash extension application treatments
P16 Describe how to effectively respond to contra-actions
Be able to prepare the client, self and work area for individual eyelash extension application
P17 Prepare and check the client, work area, equipment and products for treatment
P18 Agree the treatment with the client and check for contra-indications or restrictions to treatment
P19 Explain the treatment procedure taking into account the client’s expectations and other influencing factors
P20 Instruct the client on how to prepare for the individual eyelash extension application
Be able to provide, maintain and remove individual eyelash extension systems
P21 Prepare the client’s eyes for treatment
P22 Establish the client’s desired appearance of eyelashes before commencement of treatment
P23 Select the products, tools, equipment and different systems available for individual eyelash extension treatments
P24 Apply individual eyelash extensions in line with the manufacturer’s instructions
P25 Provide aftercare advice
P26 Update the client treatment records
P27 Prepare the work area for the next treatment
Prepare and check the client, work area, products and equipment for treatment
Learners must demonstrate that they have sanitised their hands and cleansed the client’s eye area and lashes, removing make-up where appropriate, and leaving the lashes free from product debris. Learners must carry out final preparation/checking of work area prior to commencement of treatment.
Learners must demonstrate that they have set up the work area in line with the treatment requirements, and have met the health and safety requirements. Learners must use suitable lighting, temperature, ventilation and appropriate background music. All the required products, tools and equipment for the treatment are to hand and are fully stocked in advance.
Agree the treatment with the client and check for contra-indications or restrictions to treatment
Learners must demonstrate that they have consulted with the client using appropriate questioning techniques, as well as conducting visual and manual checks for contra- indications. Learners must explain the treatment in full to the client and ascertain the client’s treatment expectations. Learners must check the results of the patch test and correctly identify any treatment limiting conditions during the consultation and recommend the most appropriate method of individual false eyelash application. Any treatment preferences should also be discussed and agreed with the client.
Explain the treatment procedure taking into account the client’s expectations and other influencing factors
Learners must explain the treatment step by step to the client. At a minimum the explanation should include the benefits of the treatment and an estimated timescale.
Instruct the client on how to prepare for the individual eyelash extension application
Learners must instruct the client on any outer clothing that needs to be removed and where to store the clothing. The client’s jewellery must be removed and stored safely. Guidance should be given to the client on positioning for maximum comfort during the treatment.
Learners must demonstrate that they have sanitised their hands and cleansed the client’s eye area and lashes, removing make-up where appropriate, and leaving the lashes free from product debris.
Establish the client’s desired appearance of eyelashes before commencement of treatment
Learners must establish the client’s desired appearance of eyelashes. Natural, enhanced, or thick and full variations should be discussed and the client’s preference matched to the appropriate quantity of lash extensions per eye.
Select the products, tools, equipment and different systems available for individual eyelash extension treatment
Learners must demonstrate that they have selected the correct equipment, tools and products to match the treatment objectives and client’s requirements. All application techniques should be carried out safely and proficiently to meet the treatment/eyelash effect objectives.
Apply individual eyelash extensions in line with the manufacturer’s instructions
Learners must demonstrate that they have selected the correct equipment, tools and products to match the treatment objectives and client’s requirements. All application techniques should be carried out safely and proficiently to meet the treatment/eyelash effect objectives. Learners must complete the treatment in a commercially viable time (as agreed with the assessor). Learners must note down any contra-actions or findings during the treatment if appropriate. Learners must ensure client satisfaction and eyelash effect objectives have been met.
Provide aftercare advice
Learners must demonstrate that they can provide feedback and aftercare to the client describing any findings during eye and skin analysis, providing information on further treatment options and requirements for maintenance, explaining the importance of homecare for longevity of eyelash effect, providing advice on retail products to enhance treatment benefits, describing possible contra-actions that may occur.
Update the client treatment records
Learners must fully complete the treatment records to meet the salon requirements and show an understanding of the legal requirements for record keeping.
Prepare the work area for the next treatment
Learners must demonstrate they have prepared the work area by removing used couch roll, wiping down the trolley/working surfaces and sterilising metal tools. Re-stock products and consumables. The work area must be tidy and ready for the next treatment and beauty therapist.
Resources
The special resources for this unit are access to a real or realistic working environment which supports the provision of individual eyelash extension treatments in the salon.
Learners must have access to health and safety standards, manufacturers’ instructions and individual lash extension products and tools.
Delivery guidance
Teachers are encouraged to use innovative, practical and engaging delivery methods to enhance the learning experience. Learners may benefit from:
Meaningful employer engagement so they relate what is being learned to the real world of work and understand commercial competence and the use of products, tools and equipment for individual eyelash extension treatments
Work experience within a commercial beauty salon so they can practise to hone their skills in a real environment
Using interactive information and technology, systems and hardware so they can learn about concepts and theories; research current trends; research product knowledge and produce visual aids for individual eyelash extension treatments
Links with other units
This unit is closely linked with the following units:
Health and safety in the salon
The Health and safety unit will provide knowledge and understanding of the responsibilities for health and safety as defined by any specific legislation covering the role of the professional therapist. This unit greatly underpins all practical unit delivery. Learners will be required to apply their knowledge and understanding of health and safety when preparing for and providing individual eyelash extension treatments in a real or realistic working environment.
Anatomy and physiology for the face and body systems
Knowledge of the structure and function of the skin, as well as skin diseases and disorders most significantly underpins the knowledge and practical skills gained in this unit. Other elements of anatomy and physiology are also relevant to this unit in terms of understanding contra-indications to treatment as well as possible contra-actions.
Client care and consultation
Client consultation before all beauty treatments is actually a legal requirement and failure to consult properly with clients prior to treatment could invalidate beauty therapy insurance. It is essential that beauty therapists elicit information from their clients about their medical history, including any allergies’ as well as checking for contra-indications. The client consultatio n unit underpins all technical units within this qualification and should be delivered prior to the delivery of any technical beauty therapy units.
Promote and sell products and services
The ability to be able to retail effectively is a skill that is necessary to ensure effective contribution to any business. This unit will enhance a learner’s ability to work effectively within a team while covering the skills required to work within a wide variety of retail areas, dealing with retailing of goods, stock levels, customer orders and returns.
Vectora Design