Patch Testing for Lash and Brow Services: What Every Salon Needs to Know

Patch Testing for Lash and Brow Services: What Every Salon Needs to Know

Patch Testing for Lash and Brow Services: What Every Salon Needs to Know

You’ve had a new client book in. They’ve never had a lash lift or brow lamination before, and they mention having sensitive skin or a history of allergies. So what’s the safest way to move forward while protecting both your client and your business?

Patch testing should always be part of your process. It’s one of the most reliable ways to assess how a client may respond to a treatment before you begin. At Elleebana, we recommend completing a patch test at least 48 hours prior to any new client appointment.

How to Perform a Patch Test

A patch test is simple to implement and can easily be incorporated into your client journey.

Apply a small amount of the lift lotion and lash lifting adhesive to the client’s inner elbow or behind the ear. Leave the product on the skin for approximately 10 minutes, then gently remove and cleanse the area.

If the client experiences no discomfort or irritation, you can proceed with booking their treatment. However, if any irritation, redness, or sensitivity develops within the following 48 hours, the appointment should be cancelled, and the client should be advised to consult a medical professional or skin specialist to identify any sensitivities.

Managing Risk and Client Responsibility

It’s important to remember that even if a client shows no reaction during a patch test, there is still a possibility of an adverse response during treatment. This applies to all services, including lash lifting, tinting, extensions, and other facial treatments.

For this reason, every client should complete and sign an indemnity and consent form prior to their appointment. This document should clearly outline:

  • Potential risks associated with the treatment
  • Confirmation that the client has disclosed all relevant medical history and contraindications

If a client chooses to proceed without a patch test, it is especially important that they complete and sign an indemnity form acknowledging that they have declined patch testing and understand the potential risks involved.

This is standard salon practice and an essential step in protecting both your client and your business.

After conducting a patch test, ensure you document the results, including the date, on the client’s record card for future reference.

Best Practice for Adhesive Application

When patch testing lash lifting adhesive, avoid using the brush applicator directly from the bottle on the client’s skin, particularly if the adhesive contains a built-in brush.

Instead, dispense a small amount and use a single-use micro brush to apply the product. This helps maintain proper hygiene standards and eliminates any risk of cross-contamination within your adhesive.

Taking the time to patch test not only demonstrates professionalism, but also builds trust with your clients—ensuring they feel safe, cared for, and confident in your services.

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Is Brow Lamination Safe During Pregnancy?

Is Brow Lamination Safe During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is an exciting and transformative time for many women, filled with anticipation and new experiences. However, alongside these changes come hormonal shifts that affect not just the body internally but also show up in hair, skin, and overall sensitivity to products—important factors to consider when deciding on cosmetic treatments like brow lamination.

Melissa Thompson, an experienced midwife and acupuncturist at Gold Coast University Hospital, works closely with expecting and new mothers. She highlights the significant influence of pregnancy hormones on hair and skin. “During pregnancy, many women notice changes in hair texture, such as new growth, loss, or structural shifts. These differences are largely due to fluctuations in hormones like Prostaglandin and Oxytocin,” she explains. As each woman’s pregnancy experience is unique, so is her body’s response to treatments.

How Pregnancy Affects Hair Growth and Texture

Hormonal changes can have varied effects on hair. For some women, pregnancy brings thicker, fuller hair, while others might experience thinning or even new curl patterns. In the breastfeeding stage, hair loss is common as hormone levels stabilise, causing shifts that may affect how cosmetic treatments like brow lamination and lash lifts take to the hair.

Due to these hormonal fluctuations, sometimes a brow lamination might not work on an expecting or breastfeeding mother, it could also mean the processing time that is required could be longer or shorter than usual.

If you have an expecting mother who books for in for a brow lamination, it is important to confirm if she has previously had this treatment performed with the brand that you are using.  Most times, if the mother has not had a brow lamination before falling pregnant, it would be recommended to not perform the treatment without educating the client of the potential issues such as the lamination not working/dropping out or over processing.

During Which Trimester Can You Get Brow Lamination?

While brow lamination is generally safe, some timing considerations can help ensure comfort and minimise risk:

First Trimester: The first trimester is marked by heightened hormone levels, nausea, and increased skin sensitivities. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers who do experience a reaction are not able to take antihistamines or antibiotics as these treatments can affect their child and so there are some cautions that need to be taken. Elleebana recommends avoiding brow laminations during this period due to the possibility of a stronger-than-normal reaction to the chemicals or odours in lamination products. Pregnant clients may also experience heightened nausea or discomfort from product fumes.

Second Trimester: This phase is typically more stable, making it the most favourable time for brow lamination. Nausea often subsides, and energy levels are usually higher, reducing discomfort from treatment. However, a well-ventilated space and the use of mild, tested products are essential to accommodate increased skin sensitivity and risk of nausea.

Third Trimester: The third trimester brings its own set of considerations, particularly physical comfort. Extended periods lying on the back can be uncomfortable or even unsafe. Brow artists can often modify their approach by allowing clients to sit up or ensuring supportive padding is provided during the treatment.

Essential Precautions for Expecting Clients

Whether your client is expecting or breastfeeding, a few simple steps can go a long way toward ensuring safety and comfort:

  • Consultation: Always perform a detailed consultation to manage expectations, as hormonal shifts may impact the final result.
  • Patch Test: Schedule a patch test a few days before the procedure. Skin is often more reactive during pregnancy, making it crucial to check for sensitivity.
  • Medical Consultation: Advise clients to discuss their plans with their healthcare provider, especially if they’re experiencing unusual skin changes or sensitivities.
  • Ventilation and Aftercare: Ensure the treatment space is well-ventilated, and recommend gentle, safe aftercare products, like our Advanced Aftercare serum or Hyaluronic Boost serum. Proper aftercare helps prevent irritation or infection, which is especially important during pregnancy.

Setting Clear Expectations

Managing client expectations is key to a positive experience, particularly when outcomes may vary due to hormone fluctuations. Clients who are informed and understand the potential challenges are more likely to feel satisfied with the results, even if they differ from pre-pregnancy outcomes.

The Importance of a Detailed Indemnity Form

Regardless of pregnancy, it’s always wise to keep an up-to-date indemnity form on file. This document should include any current medications or newly developed allergies to ensure the safest treatment experience.

By taking the time to understand and prepare for these special considerations, brow artists can make the experience comfortable, safe, and satisfying for their expecting clients.

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