The Ultimate Checklist for Onboarding a New Lash Client

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Written by SuiteCal Team

If you're starting out as a lash artist, your first interaction with a new client sets the tone for everything that follows: trust, comfort, and repeat bookings. A flawless onboarding experience doesn't just make clients feel pampered, it also helps you stay professional, compliant, and organized.

Let's walk through a complete checklist for onboarding a lash extensions new client, so you can deliver a five-star experience every single time.

1. Before the Appointment: Communication and Prep

Before your client even steps into your studio, start building trust through clear and professional communication.

Here's what to do before the appointment:

  • Send a confirmation message with the service type, time, and any preparation instructions (like arriving makeup-free or avoiding oil-based products).
  • Ask your client to share a few lash extension pictures to show new clients. It helps both of you understand their style preferences.
  • Remind them about your cancellation and deposit policies, so expectations are clear from the start.
  • Provide a “pre-appointment checklist”. No caffeine, no mascara, clean lashes, and comfortable clothing.
  • Let them know how long the appointment will take (usually 1.5–2.5 hours) and what comfort options you offer (snack, blanket, or music).

Early communication reduces no-shows, prevents misunderstandings, and makes your clients feel that you run a professional, organized lash business.

2. The New Client Form for Lash Technicians

Every new lash extensions client should fill out an intake form before their first session. This protects you, keeps your records compliant, and ensures you can deliver safe, customized results.

Your new client form should include:

  • Basic details: Name, contact, birthday, and emergency contact.
  • Medical information: Allergies, eye sensitivities, skin conditions, or prior lash damage.
  • Lifestyle questions: Do they use lash serums, wear makeup daily, or exercise frequently?
  • Service goals: What look they want: natural, hybrid, or dramatic.
  • Consent clauses: For treatments, photos, and aftercare acknowledgment.
  • Stylist notes: Record lash health, curl recommendations, and product choices.

A well-structured new client form for lash technicians doubles as a mini consultation. It shows professionalism and builds confidence from the very first visit.

Essential steps included in onboarding a new lash client, curated by SuiteCal

The essential steps included in onboarding a new lash client.

Download our pre-appointment checklist PDF to help you get started.

3. Organize Your Lash Client Record Book

Keeping track of each client's journey is how top lash artists build loyalty. A lash client record book helps you document everything, from service details to retention notes.

What to record:

  • Date of appointment and lash type applied (classic, hybrid, volume).
  • Products used: adhesive, primer, lash brand, curl, and length.
  • Before-and-after photos (if the client has consented).
  • Notes on natural lash condition, allergies, and retention.
  • Next appointment recommendation and refill date.

Updating your lash client record book regularly helps you spot trends, track retention, and refine your technique; turning every client into a long-term one.

4. Perfect Your Space: The Lash Chair & Setup

Comfort equals professionalism. The right lash chair for clients is one of the most important investments you'll make.

Checklist for your setup:

  • Comfortable recliner or esthetic bed: Choose one with full back and neck support.
  • Proper lighting: Use a ring light or LED lash lamp to avoid shadows.
  • Organized lash tray: Keep tweezers, adhesive, and tiles within easy reach.
  • Cleanliness: Sanitize all tools before every appointment.
  • Ambience: Calming music, cozy blanket, and neutral scents help relax the client.

The lash chair is where your client spends hours. Make it so comfortable that they fall asleep. That's when you know you've nailed your setup.

Lash studio checklist before an appointment, curated by SuiteCal

Lash studio checklist before an appointment.

Download our studio setup checklist PDF to ensure your space is always client-ready.

5. Consultation, Mapping & Application

Now comes the creative part. The consultation shapes the client's expectations while mapping and application bring their dream look to life.

Your in-chair checklist:

  • Review the client's goals from their intake form.
  • Examine natural lashes to ensure they're strong enough for extensions.
  • Choose lengths, curls, and styles that suit their eye shape.
  • Cleanse the lashes thoroughly with an oil-free cleanser.
  • Apply extensions carefully, one natural lash at a time, ensuring isolation and proper bonding.
  • Check for “stickies,” then fluff and brush the set for a final check.

The goal isn't just a beautiful lash set: it's comfort, safety, and retention. Every clean bond and perfect map builds your reputation as a detail-driven lash artist.

6. Aftercare, Photos & Rebooking

Once your client opens their eyes, your job isn't over, it's time for aftercare education and retention planning.

Your end-of-appointment steps:

  • Provide a printed or digital aftercare guide. You can cover topics like cleaning routine, avoiding steam, and using oil-free products.
  • Take before-and-after photos (with consent) and add them to your gallery and social media.
  • Fix the next refill appointment before they leave (typically every 2–3 weeks).
  • Send them home with a mini lash brush or cleansing kit as a small thank-you.
  • Log the service in your lash client record book for future reference.

The aftercare conversation turns first-time clients into loyal regulars. Educate, encourage, and make their next booking effortless.

Get On With Your Lash Business In Confidence

Onboarding a lash extensions new client is more than paperwork and prep. It's your brand in action. From the moment they book to their next refill, every detail shapes how they feel about you and your work.

Invest in a smooth process, keep your tools and forms ready, and never underestimate the power of great communication. With this checklist in hand, you'll not only create flawless lash sets, you'll create loyal clients who keep coming back.