How to check a lash tech is trained and works hygienically

You're sitting in a chair about to let someone work on your eyes. It's natural to wonder: has this person actually trained for this? Are they following basic hygiene standards? These aren't paranoid questions—they're the foundation of a safe, well-executed service. The good news is that you don't need to be an expert to verify a lash tech's credentials and working standards. You just need to know what to look for and what to ask.

Checking training credentials and qualifications

A trained lash tech should have completed a formal course in lash extension application or brow services. This isn't always obvious from a portfolio alone. Before your first appointment, ask directly: where did they train, and for how long? A legitimate trainer or academy should be named. You can then search for that institution online to confirm it exists and check its reputation.

Don't be shy about requesting evidence. A professional will have certificates, course completion records, or a letter from their trainer. These don't need to be framed on the wall—a photo sent over WhatsApp or email is fine. If someone gets defensive or vague about their training background, that's a red flag. Ask how recently they trained too. Techniques evolve, and ongoing education matters; someone who trained five years ago and hasn't refreshed their skills may be using outdated methods that increase the risk of lash damage.

Some lash techs hold qualifications from international bodies or national associations. Ask if they're registered with any professional body or if they've taken additional courses beyond their initial training. This shows commitment to the craft. You're not checking for a specific legal requirement—just gathering a fuller picture of their professionalism.

Verifying hygiene and sanitisation practices

Hygiene in lash work is non-negotiable. Your eye area is sensitive, and infections or reactions can happen if standards slip. During your consultation or first appointment, observe the treatment space. Is it clean? Are tools visibly sanitised? Does the tech wear fresh gloves?

Ask specific questions: how are their tweezers and application tools cleaned between clients? A proper answer involves either autoclaving (high-pressure sterilisation), chemical disinfection, or disposing of single-use tools. Tweezers should never be reused without sterilisation. Similarly, ask about lash extension supplies—are they opened fresh for each client, or are old bottles reused? Adhesive and primer should be stored correctly and not kept open for weeks.

Infection control extends to the tech's personal hygiene too. Do they wash their hands before each client and wear fresh gloves? Do they sanitise the treatment area between appointments? These practices protect both you and the next person in the chair. If the space looks cluttered or the tech seems to skip these steps, find someone else.

Asking references and checking reviews

A tech confident in their work will happily provide references—names and contact details of regular clients you can call or message. Ask those clients about their experience: did the tech listen to what they wanted, was the result comfortable, and did their lashes stay healthy? References bypass marketing polish and give you real feedback.

Online reviews matter too, but read them critically. Look for patterns rather than single complaints. A tech with dozens of five-star reviews and a handful of neutral ones is normal; consistent mentions of allergic reactions, lash loss, or poor hygiene are warning signs. Check review dates—recent reviews are more relevant than old ones. If someone has only reviews from three years ago and nothing recent, they may have taken a long break or closed down.

Don't rely on reviews alone, though. Call at least one reference and ask them directly about the tech's professionalism, consistency, and whether they'd book again. A real conversation reveals far more than a star rating.

Meeting the tech in person first

Before committing to a full appointment, have a short chat face-to-face or over a video call. This is your chance to assess their communication style and ask remaining questions. Do they explain what they'll do and listen to your concerns? Do they ask about your natural lash health and any allergies? A good tech wants to understand your needs and will discuss realistic expectations.

Trust your gut. If something feels off—whether it's rushed communication, vague answers about their training, or a space that doesn't feel clean—you're allowed to say no and keep looking. Finding a verified, trained lash tech working to proper hygiene standards takes a little homework, but it's worth it. Strove lists vetted lash and brow specialists who can walk you through their qualifications and process, giving you one less thing to worry about before you sit down in that chair.