Starting out as a lash artist is exciting—but like any new journey, it comes with a learning curve. Whether you're still in training or just launched your business, it's normal to feel overwhelmed. The good news? Most mistakes beginners make are totally avoidable—with the right knowledge and guidance. At Honest Lash, we’re passionate about preparing our students for long-term success. So here are five of the most common mistakes new lash artists make—and how you can avoid them from the very beginning.

1. Skipping the Fundamentals
​
The Mistake: Rushing through lash isolation, application, or mapping to speed up service time.

Why It Matters: The foundation of a great lash set is precise technique. When beginners skip the basics, it often leads to poor retention, clumpy lashes, or client discomfort.
How to Avoid It: Take your time during training to master isolation, lash placement, and adhesive control. These are the skills that will build your reputation and client trust.

Tip: At Honest Lash University, our students get hands-on practice on mannequins and live models so they graduate with real-world experience.


2. Using Too Much Adhesive

The Mistake: Applying too much glue to lashes—either from inexperience or fear they won’t stick.
Why It Matters: Excess adhesive causes stickies (lashes glued together), discomfort, and poor lash retention. It also looks messy and unprofessional.

How to Avoid It: Less is more. Practice proper adhesive dipping and placement techniques. Use a high-quality adhesive and work in small amounts.

Pro Insight: Good retention doesn’t come from using more glue—it comes from correct placement and bonding time.


3. Ignoring Lash Health

The Mistake: Applying lashes that are too long, too thick, or too heavy for the client’s natural lashes.
Why It Matters: Overloading natural lashes can lead to premature shedding, damage, or breakage—hurting both the client’s lashes and your reputation.

How to Avoid It: Always assess your client’s natural lash condition and recommend styles that enhance their lashes, not stress them. Learning lash weights and diameters is critical, especially when working with Volume fans.

Bonus: Lash health = better retention and happy, returning clients.


4. Not Educating Clients on Aftercare

The Mistake: Assuming clients will know how to care for their lashes—or forgetting to give aftercare instructions altogether.
Why It Matters: Poor aftercare leads to poor retention, lash loss, and unhappy clients who may blame your application rather than their habits.

How to Avoid It: Always educate your clients before they leave. Walk them through the do’s and don’ts, and offer or recommend aftercare products like lash cleansers, brushes, and sealants.

Pro Tip: Honest Lash studios offer branded aftercare kits you can retail for extra income and better client results.


5. Undercharging for Your Time & Talent

The Mistake: Charging too little because you’re new, nervous, or trying to attract clients quickly.
Why It Matters: Undervaluing your work hurts your confidence, reduces profit, and attracts price shoppers—not loyal clients.

How to Avoid It: Price your services based on your skill level, the quality of your products, and the time each service takes. As your experience grows, so should your rates. Don't race to the bottom—focus on building value.

Remember: You’re providing a luxury service. Charge accordingly, and the right clients will come.

Confidence Comes with Preparation
Every lash artist starts as a beginner—but the most successful ones never stop learning. At Honest Lash University, we prepare students not just to apply lashes, but to build a confident, sustainable career in the beauty industry.
From mastering core techniques to learning business basics and avoiding common mistakes, our curriculum is designed to give you an edge in a competitive market. Ready to Launch Your Lash Career the Right Way?