3 minute read
Why do I need to do a Flex Check during a Korean lash lift?
Flex check is essential to prevent both under-processing and over-processing.
Even the gentlest Step 1 softening cream is still a chemical that breaks down the internal bonds of the hair.
If timing is off, the result can be:
- over-processed lashes with fried or bent tips, or
- an underwhelming, overly natural lift.
5 minutes for fine lashes, 8 minutes for medium, 10 minutes for thick lashes…
Is this really how you decide your Step 1 timing? Those days are gone.
With the Korean lash lift trend, flex check (especially for Step 1) is now a must, not optional. Why? Because every client’s lashes are different.
Processing time can vary depending on:
- lash thickness
- porosity
- previous lash lifts
- overall lash health
Some lashes look thin but are actually strong and stubborn. Others look thick but are high-porosity and process very quickly. If a client had a recent lift, the lashes can look healthy on the surface but be more fragile underneath, and in these cases Step 1 should be much shorter.
How do I know when Step 1 is ready to remove?
Look for these signs:
- lashes look softer and more flexible
- colour looks slightly lighter or brownish
- lashes look less shiny, with less light reflection
These are only indicators. The real decision should be made with a flex check.
Please note: The flex check methods below may not work accurately if you are using traditional lash glue.
Flex check method 1: Flat shield attachment test
Not ready
When you try to attach the lashes onto the flat shield, they lift and pop off, especially at the base.
Ready
The lashes are fully softened and stay down effortlessly.
Flex check method 2: Bend test (on the shield)
Not ready
When you bend a few lashes with tweezers and they spring back into a C or U shape, the lashes are still resistant.
Ready
The lashes feel much softer and bend into a V shape.
Flex check method 3: Glueless method (on the eye pad)
Not ready
When you bend a few lashes with tweezers and they spring back into a C or U shape, the lashes are still resistant.
Ready
The lashes feel much softer and bend into a V shape.
Korean Lash Lift Flex check FAQ
1. What if the lashes are not ready?
Simply re-apply Step 1 cream only to the area that needs more softening and process for another 1 to 2 minutes.
This step makes a huge difference to achieving a clean and beautifully lifted result.
If you are still not happy after the second softening, you can repeat it again.
The more precise you are at this stage, the better the final result will be.
2. It’s still hard to tell if they are fully softened
Totally normal. Flex check is very hard to learn from text alone, it really comes with hands-on practice.
Do not be afraid to:
- remove the cream
- check
- and re-apply for extra processing if needed
Also pay close attention to weaker areas, such as:
- baby lashes
- very fine tips
Apply a protective product like Alba Re;Vive cream on those areas to help reduce the risk of over-processing while you continue softening the stronger sections.
Friendly reminder, flex check is what separates an average lift from a truly clean Korean lash lift result.
Want to dive deeper into Korean lash lifts? Enrol in our free online course today.
