How to Master Your Lash Extensions Pre-Treatment Routine!

Top Tips to Nail Your Eyelash Pretreatment Routine

Let's be honest, navigating lash pretreatment products can feel tricky when there are so many options. From cleansers and primers to boosters and finishing products, understanding what each one does makes your routine easier to manage.

Thorough preparation helps remove residue that can interfere with adhesive attachment. Alongside suitable glue, controlled room conditions, and careful application, it supports more consistent retention—without needing to promise a particular number of weeks for every client.

Start with Thorough Lash Cleansing

Ask clients to arrive with clean, makeup-free lashes, but always assess and prepare them yourself before application. Even when lashes look clean, skincare residue and everyday buildup may still be present.

Begin with a suitable foaming lash cleanser, following its directions. If your client cleanses their own lashes first, explain the method and check the result before continuing. Rinse thoroughly so no foam residue remains.

For more about this first stage, read our foaming lash shampoo guide. Then select the additional preparation steps appropriate to the products, natural lashes, and adhesive system you use.

Protein Remover Pads

Protein Remover Pads help remove makeup and residue from the areas specified in the product instructions. During fills, take care around existing extensions so fibers do not become caught in the adhesive bonds.

Pro tip: Where the product directions allow, use a clean micro swab to pick up a controlled amount of liquid from the pad for more targeted application. Avoid overloading the applicator or allowing liquid to enter the eyes.

Lash Cleanser

A professional pretreatment Cleanser helps remove remaining oils and residue from the natural lashes. Use the amount and application method specified by the manufacturer, and follow its drying instructions before proceeding.

Cleanser should not replace thorough rinsing after shampoo. Each stage has its own purpose, so avoid relying on one product to correct incomplete use of another.

Lash Primer

Primer has a different role from Cleanser and should be used according to its directions. Assess whether it is appropriate for the natural lashes and the adhesive system you are working with rather than applying more product automatically.

If you prefer a scented option, check the available Cleansers and Primers. Choose according to product suitability and client preferences.

Retention & Speed Booster: Prepare the Extensions

London Lash Retention & Speed Booster is applied to the bases of the extensions while they are on the strip, following the current product instructions. Do not apply it to natural lashes or skin.

Booster can accelerate adhesive setting, so consider your placement speed and measured room conditions before using it. Faster setting is only helpful if you still have enough time to achieve a proper attachment.

It does not replace cleansing the natural lashes and should not be treated as an automatic solution for clients with oily skin or inconsistent retention.

Check Your Preparation Before Starting

Before applying extensions, make sure the lashes are clean, preparation products have been used as directed, and your adhesive suits your room conditions and working speed. Complete your lash map and maintain careful isolation throughout the treatment.

Still want more information about why preparation matters? Read our lash pretreatment explainer for more guidance.