Create Awe-Inspiring Lashes

Tips from NovaLash Lash Artist of the Year Raylene Cravens

By Crysta Jones

The Beauty Consultant’s Q&A with NovaLash Artist of the Year & Brand Ambassador, Oklahoma-based Raylene Cravens

The goal is No Lash left behind.

The Beauty Consultant (TBC): What look or technique have you perfected, and can you share any tips or advice with our readers on creating this look?

Cravens: I like creating a natural luscious look. I like to create this look by using American Volume C Curl. I apply .05 and .07 using lengths 8, 10, and 12 mm. Most Importantly, I use a full row of 8MM to create a very full set which gives them immediate results as well as long term. I always make sure I separate throughout the process to ensure I provide a damage-free application and brushing them to get all of those little lashes to really create that full look for her. The goal is No Lash left behind. I like to place most of the length of the extensions in the arch of her eyebrow to really open up the eye to give a nice natural look

TBC: What is your favorite NovaLash product to use on your clients?

Cravens: I absolutely love using the NovaLash LASHliner after I apply a full set of eyelash extensions. I use the dotting technique—this is where you can dot the liner in between each extension. Then after that, I take the liner and make a line dot to dot to create the full eyeliner effect. The lash liner is so soft that you are able to get through each eyelash extension, creating a darker lash line. When you have extensions, you can’t really use liner like you could with your natural eyelashes, so this is a great way to intensify your lash line to make your extensions stand out more.

TBC: What are your favorite lashes to do on your clients?

Cravens: Most of my clients need an everyday lash, giving them a luscious natural look with a beautiful curl not giving it too much drama, especially for everyday wear. This curl allows you to transform into a night look with your NovaLash LASHliner. The C Curl is my go-to lash for that everyday client.

TBC: Which lash technique do you suggest for people with sensitive eyes?

Cravens: It depends on the sensitivity one has. You could always do a patch test, which could possibly rule out any allergic reactions. I would definitely start with the NovaLash stickers overlapping the gel pads, dropping that gel pad a little bit down away from the lash line to prevent any irritation. The other suggestion I would have is using the NovaLash sensitive adhesive to assure a safer application with someone with sensitivity.

TBC: How can lash experts increase lash longevity for their client?

Cravens: To provide the best long-term results and retention for  your lash extensions, I recommend clients to  come in with clean lashes to ensure a tighter seal with the natural hair. Also, aftercare is very important with NovaLash—cleanLASH 3-in-1 conditioning pads help the lashes remain flexible and provide longer wear. Mascara also shortens the life of your extensions, so I advise my clients to throw away that tube, and if necessary I would recommend NovaLash mascara as it is formulated for eyelash extensions.

TBC: What is the safest removal technique for lash extensions?

Cravens: The safest way to remove lash extensions is having your client propped up, not lying flat on their back, so the adhesive remover does not run into the eye. I also suggest using micro brushes to prevent any saturation when using adhesive remover.

TBC: How can other lash experts maintain cleanliness and decrease the risk of bacteria build-up in eyelash extensions?

Cravens: Educating their clients on how to take care of their lashes. Aftercare is vital, especially if someone wants to wear lash extensions for any period of time. Cleaning them nightly is a must! NovaLash is waterproof & oil proof. cleanLASH are tightly woven, lint-free pads soaked in pomegranate seed oil that remove any makeup and debris, plus conditions as well as to cleanse the extensions.

TBC: What’s the most useful career advice you have received over the years?

Cravens: The best career advice I’ve gotten is pick one thing and be really good at it. Put yourself out there, utilize social media to show your work, and reach a broader audience.

Images courtesy of NovaLash