Fixing Fails & Mastering Results Like a Pro
Lash lifts can give clients dreamy, lifted lashes with zero need for extensions — but when something goes wrong, it can leave both artist and client disappointed. The good news? Most lash lift issues can be prevented or corrected with the right knowledge and technique.
In this blog, we’re breaking down the most common lash lift problems and exactly how to troubleshoot them — so you can confidently create beautiful, consistent results every time.
1. Lashes Didn’t Lift at All
The problem: Your client opens their eyes after the service… and there’s barely a curl in sight.
Possible causes:
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Solution wasn’t left on long enough
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Lash shield size was too large
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Incorrect placement of lashes on the shield (they weren’t straight/tensioned)
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Product wasn’t applied close enough to the root
How to fix:
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Reassess processing time based on hair type (coarse lashes need longer than fine ones)
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Use a smaller shield to create more lift
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Re-lift after 48 hours with a shorter processing time if lashes are healthy
Pro tip: Always test new products on yourself or a model to understand their exact timing before using on clients.
2. Over-Processed or Frizzy Lashes
The problem: The lashes have lifted — but they’re brittle, frizzy, or frazzled.
Possible causes:
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Over-processing (timing was too long)
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Products were applied too high on the shaft
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Lashes were manipulated too roughly during the service
How to fix:
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Recommend a lash serum (like Lash Rescue) or keratin treatment to nourish the lashes
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Avoid re-lifting for at least 6–8 weeks
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For future lifts, reduce processing time and avoid overlapping solutions
Pro tip: Less is more. Start with the minimum processing time and adjust only if needed.
3. Uneven Curl or Kinks
The problem: Some lashes are beautifully lifted while others are kinked, crisscrossed, or sitting strangely.
Possible causes:
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Lashes weren’t evenly spaced or combed straight on the shield
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Some lashes lifted off the rod during the process
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Improper adhesive use (too much or too little)
How to fix:
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Ensure lashes are perfectly aligned on the shield before applying solution
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Use a high-quality lash lift glue with a fast but workable dry time
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Avoid reapplying glue over and over — work in sections for better control
Pro tip: Use a tool like a lash lift Y-comb or precision wand for perfect lash placement.
4. Lashes Drooped Shortly After the Lift
The problem: The lashes looked great… for the first 24 hours. Then the curl vanished.
Possible causes:
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Lashes got wet too soon after the treatment
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The setting lotion wasn’t applied correctly or left on long enough
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Client used oil-based products post-treatment
How to fix:
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Re-educate your clients on aftercare: no water, steam, makeup, or oil-based products for 24–48 hours
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Ensure your setting solution covers the lashes evenly and processes for the correct time
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Re-lift the lashes after 6 weeks (if needed)
Pro tip: Always send your clients home with an aftercare card — clear instructions = better retention.
5. Lashes Stuck Together or Tangled
The problem: Lashes clump together or stick in bunches after the treatment.
Possible causes:
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Glue wasn’t brushed out properly before solutions were applied
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Not enough separation during the process
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Excess product used
How to fix:
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Use clean tools and take your time separating each lash onto the rod
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Gently brush out glue residue before moving on to lifting lotion
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Less is more — only apply a thin layer of each product
Pro tip: Precision and patience are key! Take your time in the placement stage for flawless results.
Final Thoughts
Even the best lash artists run into challenges, but learning how to troubleshoot with confidence is what separates a good service from a great one. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced tech, understanding why something goes wrong is the first step to fixing it.
✨ Want to level up your lash lift game even further? Explore our Lash Lift Masterclass — designed to help you troubleshoot, perfect your technique, and deliver long-lasting, beautiful results every time.