What is Lash Mapping and How Do You Do It?

Lash mapping is a process that involves strategically marking the lash line and selecting extensions of various lengths, thicknesses and curls to complement the client’s eye shape.

It’s a delicate process that requires skill, forward planning and expertise.

Get it right; you’ve got the most perfectly structured and contoured lash extensions that give dream lash vibes.

Get it wrong; your client’s will take their uneven lashes to a new tech (and they won’t be back).

In this guide we walk you through the lash mapping process, it’s benefits, common mistakes and tools you’ll need to get the job done (the right way!).

What is Lash Mapping and Why is it Important?

Learning the art of lash mapping gives your lash services one-up on the competition. Lash mapping is the process of marking out where eyelash extensions should be placed, based on the client’s unique eye shape and aesthetic goals. Lash mapping takes the guess work out of extensions placement, ensuring that appropriate lengths and thicknesses are applied in the ideal position.

Bela Beauty offer Professional Lash Courses to suit beginners to advanced artists looking to refine their skills and boost their business. Completely online and at your own pace, knowledgable tutors will guide you through the art of eyelash extensions including the lash mapping process. Upon completion, you’ll be awarded with a certification you can proudly display at your salon and let your clients know they’re in the hands of an industry pro.

Benefits of Lash Mapping for Eyelash Artists

1. CustomisationAllows for the lash technician to tailor the extensions to the client’s eye shape and style preference. Different mapping styles provide different effects, such as cat eye and doll eye looks.
2. Ensures symmetryA well-planned map allows for even distribution of lash lengths, ensuring both sides are equal.
3. Speeds up the applicationBy following a lash map, lash artists can work faster without second guessing the placement of each lash.
4. Increases lash life spanApplying lashes with proper weight distribution helps in maintaining a healthy lash line and prevents premature shedding.
5. Reduces the need for adjustmentsMapping eliminates guess work and reduces the need for corrections or refills due to even application.

Key Tools Needed for Lash Mapping

Here’s a list of all the tools you’ll need to start lash mapping:

• Fine tip pen or marker
• Hydrogel eye pads or medical tape
• Lash tweezers
• Lash extensions
• Lash adhesive
• Nano mister
• Oil-free cleanser
• Spoolie brush

Step-by-Step Guide to Lash Mapping

Here’s your lash mapping guide to level up your lash extensions:

Step 1: Choosing the Right Mapping Style

An eye shape analysis is done during the initial consultation to determine which lash mapping style is best suited for every client. The client’s preferences are also taken into account, as well as the condition of their natural eyelashes.

• Round eyes: best suited to cat eye or natural lash map style
• Almond shaped eyes: Suits most lash map styles
• Hooded eyes: Requires careful placement to enhance the visible lid space
• Downturned eyes: Should be balanced out with lifted lash map styles such as cat eye

Based on your client’s unique eye shape, you may choose to apply;

• Natural
• Doll eye
• Cat eye
• Wispy, or
• Squirrel eye eyelash mapping styles

Step 2: Preparing the Lash Line

1. Cleanse the lashes with an oil-free cleanser to remove any dirt or makeup from your client’s lashes
2. Place eye pads or medical tape under the lower lashes to prevent sticking
3. Ensure the client is comfortable and their eyes are closed

Step 3: Marking the Map

Using a fine-tip pen, draw marks on the under eye tape or pad to section off the lash line. Divide the lash line into 5-7 sections, each designated for different extension lengths.

Using your lash map style as a guide, mark off the inner corner and outer corners for either long lashes or shorter lash extensions, depending on the desired outcome.

Step 4: Applying Extensions Based on the Map

Follow the lash mapping you have created by selecting appropriate length lash extensions and applying them to the lash line.

Refer to your lash map to ensure proper length placement throughout the application process. Make adjustments if necessary.

Popular Lash Mapping Styles Explained

Different lash mapping styles will have different effects and should be customised to suit your client’s facial features.

Doll Eye

To create a doll eye lash map, longer lashes are placed in the centre to create the appearance of round eyes. Shorter lashes are placed in the inner and outer corners of the eye, making the eye appear more ‘open’.

Cat Eye

Cat eye lash mapping involves placing lashes to gradually increase in length towards the outer edges of the eye for a lifted effect.

Natural Style

Natural lash mapping involves following the client’s natural lash pattern with a slight length enhancement to create natural looking lash extensions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Lash Mapping

1. Failing to properly analyse the client’s eye shape, resulting in an unsuitable lash style
2. Inconsistent sectioning, causing asymmetry
3. Misjudging lash lengths or lash curls
4. Failing to mark the lash line clearly
5. Failing to adjust the design where needed

Summary

Whether you’re working with classic, volume or hybrid lash extensions, mastering lash mapping ensures consistent, high quality results that enhance your client’s natural beauty and keep them coming back.

By completing a professional course in lash mapping, you can ensure you master the best eyelash extension tips and tricks and stay on top of the competition.