Health & Safety in Lash Lifting & Tinting

As a lash artist, you’re working on one of the most delicate and sensitive areas of the body, the eyes. Maintaining the highest standards of health, safety, and hygiene is essential not only for client protection but also for your reputation and legal compliance. Professionalism, cleanliness, and correct working practices build trust and ensure every client feels safe and cared for.

1. Professional Conduct & Image

• Personal Hygiene & Presentation:
  Always present yourself in a clean and professional manner; tidy hair, fresh clothing, clean hands, and fresh breath. Avoid heavy perfumes or smoke smells, as they can irritate clients during treatments.
• Client Perception:
  The way your salon looks and how you present yourself directly influences how safe and professional clients perceive your services to be. A clean, organised setup creates confidence and comfort.
  
  
  

2. Workplace Hygiene & Codes of Practice

Because lash lifting and tinting involve close contact with the eye area, hygiene and cross-contamination control are absolutely crucial.

Because you’re working so close to the client’s eyes, always ensure your hands are steady and clean. Even a trace of product, oil, or dirt can cause irritation or infection.

3. Ergonomics & Safe Work Environment
Comfortable posture and proper equipment setup are vital for long-term health and treatment precision.

Recommended Setup:

• Adjustable reclining beauty bed or lash chair for proper client positioning.
• Adjustable stool to support a neutral posture and prevent back strain.
• Daylight or ring light to improve visibility and reduce eye strain.
• Maintain a clutter-free workspace with easy access to all products and disposables.
• Ensure your room is well-lit, ventilated, and temperature-controlled.

4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

PPE prevents cross-contamination and protects both you and your client.

• Gloves: Wear disposable, latex-free gloves when handling chemical products or tint.
• Face Mask: Optional, but recommended for extra protection when working closely around the eyes.
• Apron: Use a disposable or washable apron to protect clothing.
• Patch Testing: Always patch test new clients at least 24-48 hours before their treatment to check for allergic reactions to lifting or tinting products.
  

5. Tool Cleaning Step-by-Step

Step 1 - Clean in Warm Soapy Water

• Use warm water mixed with detergent (not just soap).
• Scrub tools to remove product residue and debris.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean lint-free cloth or air dry.

Why detergent? Detergent breaks down the fatty outer layer of bacteria and viruses, making disinfection more effective than soap alone.

Step 2 - Disinfectant Soak

• Use a professional-grade disinfectant like Barbicide.
• Prepare according to the manufacturer’s dilution instructions.
• Soak tools for the recommended time (usually 10-30 minutes).
• Rinse with water before storing in a UV steriliser.
• Replace disinfectant daily.
  
  

(The Barbicide official website offers a free certification course, which you can complete and print as proof of your training. It’s a great way to demonstrate professionalism and reassure clients that you’re fully qualified in safe and proper sanitation - an excellent addition to any salon.)

Step 3 - UV Sanitiser

• Store clean, dry tools in a UV sanitiser until next use or overnight.
• Place a clean paper towel inside the drawer to maintain cleanliness.
• UV light kills surface bacteria and reduces microbial load.
  

Optional Step 4 - Sterilisation (Autoclave)

• Use an autoclave for tools that come into close contact with skin or bodily fluids.
• This uses high-pressure steam to completely sterilise tools, killing bacteria, fungi, and spores.
• Not mandatory for lash lifting but represents the gold standard in hygiene.
  

Timing Tip: Allow at least 10-15 minutes between clients for thorough cleaning and disinfection. Never rush your sanitising process.

Key Takeaway: Cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitising are separate but essential steps. Following them consistently keeps you compliant, prevents infection, and reassures your clients that their safety is your top priority.

6. First Aid Awareness

8. Staying Globally Compliant

Lash lifting and tinting regulations can vary internationally. Always:

• Check your local council or state’s licensing and hygiene requirements.
• Follow all manufacturer’s guidelines for product use and patch testing.
• Maintain Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all chemical products.
• Ensure your salon ventilation meets safety standards.
  
  

Key Takeaway:

Health and safety are the foundation of lash artistry. By maintaining impeccable hygiene, using PPE correctly, following patch-testing protocols, and preparing for emergencies, you not only protect your clients but also elevate your professionalism and brand trust.