A lash techs necessities: Vol. 1, TAPE

One of the ever lasting never, ending hunts for lash technicians is to find the perfect tape (gel pads too, but we'll save that for the next post.). However, not all tape is for everyone. No client is a one-size-fits-all. Part of this is due to  different skin types, if a client is wearing spf, moisturizer, cosmetics, allergies, etc. With this being said it is always best to have an arsenal of different tapes. By having a variety,  you'll be able to find a tape that is the most comfortable and suitable, tailored for each client. 

Paper Tape

Paper Tape:

Hypoallergenic. Breathable. Flexible. The main tape I carry and use on a majority of my clientele. Though it's easy and non invasive, I find that paper tape lacks the stick factor. This can be difficult to work with if clients have oily skin, The thinnest tape available too. The most universal for every client. Another pet peeve of mine with paper tape is that some brands can have a textured surface. Causing lash (mascara) wands to get entwined with the tape. It's not as severe as cloth or fabric tape, but still annoying. 

"Blue Tape":

Sensitive Blue Tape

Blue tape comes in two separate kinds, "strong hold for sensitive skin" and "for sensitive skin." Confusing, I know. STAY AWAY from the strong hold. Sadly, the tape and packaging are exactly the same, except one states, "strong hold." Learn from my mistakes, I made this mistake recently. Don't do it. 

Blue tape is wonderful because it's flexible, great for fragile skin. However, this is not ideal for dry skin or anyone that has an allergy to rubber or latex, as both are in the ingredients of this tape (not hypoallergenic.). The tape is a little more plush, where it may not need to be used with gel eye pads (which is lovely!) However, being thicker may not be ideal for every client. It's has a great stick factor, not as much fuss with sliding around, though it's not always the case. 

AVOID:
"Strong Hold"
Blue Tape

Flexible Clear Tape:

The brand "Nexcare" use to make a hypoallergenic clear tape. Sadly, most of the clear tapes I find on the market now, are not. Though it has a great hold for really oily clients or clients with heavy/oily make up where gel pads and tape don't stick, this does the trick. However, I don't recommend it to be to close to the eye, ONLY to help keep the pads in place. Sadly, I don't typically carry this tape due not being hypoallergenic.

Cloth & Fabric Tape:

Avoid at all costs. This was meant for first aid, and not as much eyelash extension services. Sometimes the Cloth and fabric can contain a textured surface, which the lash (mascara) wands do not like. 

Tape Holders/Storage

As weird as this may sound, even having your tape stored in the proper way can make alllllllll the difference. Helping preserve your tape will help continue it's "stick" factor, away from humidity, lint, etc. In California, The board of barbering and cosmetology requires that all products are stored and labeled in a air tight container. I find this to be the gold standard for products. A few lash brands offer multi storage, which is ideal (though most don't have a "seal.") Some tape brands offer a roll with teeth (similar to how scotch tape is sold.) This makes it easier and more efficient to cut tape off into sections. However, making sure it is properly stored is key. 

LivBay Tape Dispenser

Tape WON'T Stick? 

A few things can be factors of why your tape isn't sticking.

1) The tape itself is faulty. Manufacturers defect, or not the proper tape to use on a client. You can always try another tape, or have a back up roll. 

2) Cosmetics. Your client may have make up on, making your tape not stick properly. Try removing some of the make up in your work zone first before applying tape again.

3) Moisturizer or SPF. Same as cosmetics, too much moisturizer or spf can leave a clients skin too moisturizers or oily. 

4) Humidity. Sometimes, even the humidity can play a factor as to why your tape isn't sticking. It may be to humid. If this is the case, look into a good storage space for your tape and a dehumidifier. 

5) Storage. Where do you store your tape? Is it too close to a sink? humidifier? lash bath products, moisture, etc? Try an air tight or sealed container to seal your tape. 

6.) It may not be the tape, but the gel pad (under eye gel pad/ eye pads.) The eye pads may repel the tape or have a slick surface, or they are too moisturizing for the tape to stick.

7.) Client has too oily skin. Try and use a soft toner to remove any excessive oil before placing tape down.

Tape WON'T UN-stick?

This has happened to me only once. I had made the mistake of buying the stronghold blue tape vs. the sensitive. My clients skin was incredibly dry. It took me 20 minutes to remove! 😳🤯 If your tape won't unstick, it can be because of three reasons. 

1.) Tape is faulty 

2.) Not using the correct tape (for that client.)

3.) Your clients skin is dry.

The best way to unstick is to get a wet or damp cotton ball or q tip and slowly and gently rub in-between the skin and the tape to help soften to lift and remove. Do NOT use any oils as you do not want oils to contact the extensions as most/ if not all adhesives are not oil friendly. 

Finding the right tape while catering to each client will always be a juggle. When all else fails, paper tape will always be your friend. The reason why techs haven't branched too far away from paper tape, is because "when the wheel isn't broken, it doesn't need to be fixed." 

Stay tuned for the next posting:

A lash techs necessities: Vol. 2, Eyepads. 

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