Under-eye pads hold the lower lashes down and out of the way while lash extensions are applied to the upper lashes. Paper pads are thin, dry, low in cost and good for practice and for clients who react to gels. Gel pads are soft, cushioned and stay put, which makes them more comfortable for long appointments. Many lash artists keep both: paper for training and sensitive clients, gel for standard sets.
What are under-eye pads for?
- Isolating the lower lashes, so they cannot be glued to the upper lashes or to extensions.
- Protecting the skin under the eye from adhesive and tools.
- Giving a pale background, so each natural upper lash is easy to see.
- Providing a surface to mark a lash map for lengths and zones.
They are used with the client's eyes closed, for the whole of the application.
Paper vs gel at a glance
| Point | Paper pads | Gel pads |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Thin and dry | Soft, cool and cushioned |
| Grip | Light adhesive backing. May need tape on oily skin | Clings on its own |
| Moisture | None | Contains moisture, which can release vapor near the eye |
| Edges | Can be trimmed to shape. Edges can feel sharp if placed too high | Soft edges. Can slide if the skin is oily |
| Marking a lash map | Easy to write on | Ink can smear on some surfaces |
| Cost per pair | Lower | Higher |
| Best use | Practice, training, gel-sensitive clients | Long client appointments |
When are paper pads the better choice?
- Practice on mannequin heads and training. You go through many pairs, and cost matters.
- Clients who have reacted to gel pads, or who find them too wet or cold.
- Clients with watery or sensitive eyes, where extra moisture near the lash line is unwelcome.
- Detailed lash maps. Paper takes pen cleanly.
- Custom shapes. Paper trims easily for small or deep-set eyes.
When are gel pads the better choice?
- Appointments of an hour or more, where comfort matters.
- Dry or delicate under-eye skin.
- Clients who like the cool, soothing feel.
- Stubborn lower lashes that spring up, since gel grips them well.
How do you place a pad correctly?
- Cleanse the eye area so it is free of oil and makeup, and dry it.
- Ask the client to look up.
- Peel the pad from its backing.
- Place the inner end first, near the inner corner, then smooth outward along the lower lid.
- Keep the top edge one to two millimeters below the waterline. It must never touch the eye or the inner rim.
- Check that every lower lash is underneath the pad.
- Ask the client to close their eyes gently, and check from above that the pad has not ridden up.
- Tape any stray lower lashes or the outer corner if needed.
- Ask whether it feels comfortable. Any poking, stinging or pressure means the pad should be repositioned.
A paper option for practice and salon work
The Uexim paper under-eye pads are paper patches used to isolate and protect the lower lashes during eyelash extension application and practice, described as suitable for both practice and salon use. There are 70 pairs per bag, and they are sold in packs of 1, 3, 5 or 10 bags, which is 70 to 700 pairs.
Hygiene and safety
- Single use only. A fresh pair for every client, discarded afterward.
- Clean hands and tools before handling pads.
- Ask about allergies and sensitivities, including to adhesives and gels, during consultation.
- Never let a pad or its edge touch the eye. A pad placed too high can scratch the surface of the eye.
- Remove gently, peeling from the outer corner inward, toward the nose.
- Stop and reposition if the client reports discomfort at any point.
- Follow the hygiene and licensing rules that apply where you work.
What are the alternatives?
- Medical or lash tape. Flexible and easy to shape. Used alone or with pads.
- Silicone pads. Reusable in some systems, with cleaning between clients according to the maker's directions.
- Foam tape. Cushioned, for sensitive skin.
Many artists combine a pad with a strip of tape for difficult lower lashes.
Frequently asked questions
Are paper pads comfortable for clients?
Yes, when placed correctly below the waterline. They feel dry and light. Poor placement, not the material, causes most discomfort.
Why do some clients react to gel pads?
Some people are sensitive to ingredients in the gel, or to moisture and vapor near the eye. Paper or tape is the usual alternative.
Can I reuse under-eye pads?
No. They are single-use for hygiene.
How many pairs do I need?
One pair per client, plus spares for repositioning. Trainees use many more for practice.
The bottom line
Paper for practice, mapping, trimming to shape and gel-sensitive clients. Gel for comfort on long sets. Whichever you use, place it below the waterline, cover every lower lash, and use a fresh pair each time.
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