Eyelash extensions are a beauty staple for those seeking voluminous, fluttery lashes without needing mascara or strip lashes. However, the adhesive used in the application process needs to be addressed despite being a critical component.
Proper usage and care of your eyelash extension adhesive can make the difference between a seamless, long-lasting application and one that fails prematurely. In this guide, we’ll explore the best practices for getting the most out of your eyelash extension glue, ensuring client satisfaction and professional results.
Eyelash extension adhesives are specially formulated for bonding synthetic lashes to natural lashes. These adhesives vary in drying times, bonding strength, and viscosity. Some are designed for rapid applications, while others allow more time for adjustment. Choosing the right adhesive for your skill level and client needs is the first step to achieving optimal results.
Drying Time: Ranges from 1 to 5 seconds.
Retention Period: Quality adhesives can last 4-8 weeks with proper care.
Viscosity: Thicker adhesives are ideal for volume lashes, while thinner ones suit classic applications.
Storage plays a crucial role in maintaining the effectiveness of your adhesive. Exposure to improper conditions can cause the adhesive to degrade, leading to poor performance and reduced retention.
Keep It Cool and Dry: Store the adhesive in a cool, dry place, ideally between 15°C and 25°C.
Use an Airtight Container: Prevent moisture from affecting the adhesive by keeping it in an airtight container with silica gel packets.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV rays can break down the adhesive formula.
Refrigeration: If you use your adhesive infrequently, storing it in the refrigerator can prolong its shelf life. However, bring it to room temperature before use.
Adhesives contain various components, including cyanoacrylate, stabilizers, and pigments, which can separate over time. Shaking the bottle ensures a consistent mixture, critical for proper bonding and retention.
Duration: Shake for at least 1-2 minutes before each use.
Method: Use a shaking device or wrap the bottle in a paper towel and shake vigorously by hand.
Frequency: Shake before each new client or every 15-20 minutes during long application sessions.
Environmental factors like humidity and temperature significantly impact adhesive performance. Each adhesive has an optimal range for these conditions, and working outside of this range can result in slower drying times, poor bonding, or premature lash shedding.
Humidity: Typically between 40% and 60%.
Temperature: Between 20°C and 24°C.
Humidifiers or Dehumidifiers: Use these tools to maintain the appropriate humidity level in your workspace.
Hygrometers: These devices help monitor the humidity and temperature to ensure consistency.
Too much or too little adhesive can cause problems. Excess adhesive may clump lashes together, while too little can result in weak bonds and poor retention.
Dip and Swipe: Dip the lash extension into the adhesive and swipe off excess on the bottle’s edge.
Be Consistent: Ensure each lash has the same amount of adhesive for uniform bonding.
Once the adhesive is exposed to air, it begins curing. It’s crucial to work quickly and accurately to maximize bonding strength.
Use Quick-Dry Adhesive: For experienced technicians, a 1-2 second dry time adhesive can speed up the process.
Pre-Placement Planning: Have your lash extensions and tools organized to minimize downtime.
Oil, dirt, and makeup residue on natural lashes can interfere with adhesive bonding. Proper lash preparation ensures optimal adhesion and retention.
Use a Lash Cleanser: Cleanse the natural lashes with an oil-free lash cleanser to remove impurities.
Prime the Lashes: Apply a lash primer to dehydrate the natural lashes and enhance adhesive bonding.
Client aftercare is vital for maintaining lash retention and the integrity of the adhesive bond.
Avoid Water and Steam: Clients should avoid getting their lashes wet for the first 24-48 hours.
Oil-Free Products: Recommend oil-free makeup and cleansers to prevent adhesive breakdown.
No Touching or Rubbing: Advise against rubbing or pulling on the lashes.
Regular Cleansing: Suggest a gentle lash cleanser to keep lashes clean and buildup-free.
Even with proper storage, adhesives have a limited shelf life. Using old adhesive can compromise lash retention and client satisfaction.
Open Bottle Lifespan: Replace adhesive every 4-6 weeks after opening.
Unopened Bottle Lifespan: Adhesives generally last 6-8 months when unopened.
Even with the best practices, problems can arise. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
Lashes Falling Off Quickly: Check for improper lash prep or environmental conditions.
Clumpy Adhesive: Ensure the adhesive is properly mixed and not expired.
Slow Drying Time: Adjust humidity levels or switch to a faster-drying adhesive.
Maximizing the performance of your eyelash extension adhesive requires choosing the right product, maintaining ideal conditions, and adhering to best practices. Following these tips’ll ensure longer-lasting extensions, happier clients, and a smoother workflow. Whether you’re a seasoned lash technician or new to the craft, investing time in mastering your adhesive usage will elevate your service quality.
