Lash Extension Adhesives and Related Tools

Behind every stunning set of lashes lies a crucial component: lash extension adhesives. In this guide, we will delve into the world of lash extension adhesives, exploring their types, application techniques, and important considerations.

Cyanoacrylate Adhesives: Cyanoacrylate adhesives are the most commonly used in the lash extension industry. They provide rapid bonding and excellent adhesion properties. These adhesives cure quickly when exposed to moisture in the air, creating a solid and durable bond. However, depending on the amount of cyanoacrylate, it may not suit clients with sensitive eyes.

Medical-Grade Adhesives: Medical-grade adhesives are specifically formulated for clients with sensitive eyes or allergies. These adhesives are hypoallergenic and provide a more gentle bonding experience. While they may have a slower cure time compared to cyanoacrylate adhesives, they are an alternative for those with sensitivities. However, remember that the retention will not match that of Cyanoacrylate. 

Hybrid Adhesives: Hybrid adhesives combine the best, offering a blend of cyanoacrylate and medical-grade adhesives. They balance rapid bonding and work well with sensitive eyes. Here at The Lash Store HQ, our adhesives are hybrid. Our Rapid Bond will set quickly and has repeatedly shown no sensitivity to clients.  

When using lash extension adhesives, follow a few key steps to ensure the adhesive is cared for and gives you the best results. First and foremost, housing your adhesive. All adhesives purchased from The Lash Store HQ should be refrigerated. This ensures that the adhesives will work at optimum levels. A bar fridge or beauty fridge will also suffice. The adhesive does not need to be removed before use. Aim to use it cold.

Shake your adhesive well. Like any liquid product, you should always shake/mix the ingredients before using. Either shake by hand for 30-60 seconds. Or use a glue shaker for ten seconds. A glue shaker works best.

Pour your adhesive. There are many types of glue palettes that you can use, and each of them has pros and cons. Try a few things out and work out what best suits you. We always recommend using a stone for all our students and customers. Due to its natural cooling elements, adhesive stays cooler and fresher for longer.

Burp your adhesive. While opening and pouring your glue, air travels into the bottle, and as air cures adhesive, you must remove the air from the bottle. After pouring your glue dot, keep the bottle semi-tilted and squeeze the bottle; you should see little air bubbles from the nozzle. Dont, release your grip, as the air will be sucked back into the bottle.

Wipe your nozzle. Using a glue wipe, wipe away all the bubbles on the nozzle. Do not use a tissue or cotton, as this will block your nozzle. Replace the lid and place back into the fridge.

We speak to so many customers daily through DMs, Text, phone, and in-store. We are always happy to help Lashtomers with any issues they might be having, not necessarily using our products, but as specialists in this field, we are always happy to share our knowledge. We have compiled the top 10 most asked questions. 

1. Why does my lash glue keep blocking?

If your adhesive nozzle has blocked, this has occurred by not burping correctly. There is still glue in the nozzle, which has cured/dried, clogging the nozzle. You will need to replace the nozzle. If you were to re-pop the nozzle, the dried adhesive would be pushed down into the bottle and ruin the rest of your bottle.

2. Why are my lashes not sticking?

Extensions not sticking could be one of several reasons, and the best way to work it out is to eliminate the cause: 

• Did you shake the adhesive well? 
• Did you prep the natural lashes correctly?
• Lashes slipping off - use less glue.
• Lashes are falling off when brushing them- check your glue dot, room temperature and humidity levels. Adhesive could be semi-curing before placement.

3. Why am I getting many stickies?

Stickies are when lash fans are stuck to neighbouring fans, although you may have isolated and placed them perfectly. It occurs when you move faster than your glue drying time or when excessive adhesive has been used. 

4. Why are my customers returning with glue dots? 

Glue dots refer to the glue drops remaining on the natural lash after the fan has fallen off. Glue dots can occur for one of the following reasons:

• The artist didn't dip correctly. 
• The artist is not tapping the glue dot. 
• The client has been too rough during cleaning or sleeping.
• The client may be picking at their lashes

Remember, the glue is strong enough that it doesn't want to come off the natural lashes even though the fan has fallen off. 

5. Why is my glue dot curing quickly?

Follow this checklist and eliminate what you know is done correctly. 

• Shaking the bottle well
• Storing the glue correctly
• Temperature of lash room
• Humidity of lash room
• Is your Bonder anywhere near your adhesive?

6. Why does my client have red eyes after her appointment?

Depending on where the redness is showing up, it will tell you where it was caused:

• If the redness is at the bottom of the eyeballs and it feels bruised when blinking,this has occurred from the lash pads and tape hitting the eyeball. Avoid this with less cheek movement. 
• All over the eyeball, - Lash Glue fumes have entered the eye. Avoid this by ensuring your client's eyes are completely closed during the appointment, and when lash drying, the fan is being held behind the eyes, not in front.
• Redness usually disappears within 24 hours.

7. Is my client allergic to glue?

Depending on the symptoms. Allergic reactions are usually associated with swelling, itchiness, and burning.

If your client has more sensitivity, like watery eyes, it could be the adhesive setting off their hay fever. We always ask that they take an antihistamine before their appointment. (If their health conditions permit it)

8. What lash glue do I use for sensitive eyes?

Our Rapid Bond has been tried and tested for sensitive eyes, has shown to be very effective, and has little to no reactions. We also recommend using our lash bonder, designed to complement our Rapid Bond. Our Lash Bonder is developed to cure the adhesive, reducing exposure to ingredients that cause the irritant and sensitivity—the winning combination. 

9. Why are my client's eyes burning during application? 

If your client's eyes are burning during application, fumes are entering the eyes. You are either using excessive adhesive and/ or their eyes are slightly open. 

10. I use a fast-drying lash glue, but it's taking forever for the lashes to dry. 

When manufacturers mention "drying time", there are conditions to it. For example, the amount of glue used, temperature, and humidity. All these elements contribute to the drying time of your glue.

Acknowledging that some people may experience allergic reactions in response to lash adhesives is essential. Here, we explore the reasons behind why lash adhesives can cause allergic reactions, shedding light on the potential allergens and elements involved. Lash adhesives can cause allergic reactions due to the presence of potential allergens such as formaldehyde, latex, fragrances, and other additives. Sensitization to these allergens can occur with repeated exposure, leading to contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals. By understanding the causes of allergic reactions, individuals can take preventative measures and make informed choices when using lash adhesives to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.

Composition of Lash Adhesives:
Lash adhesives typically consist of a combination of ingredients designed to bond the false lashes to the natural lashes. The primary ingredient in most adhesives is cyanoacrylate, a fast-drying adhesive that forms a strong bond. However, it is not cyanoacrylate itself that causes allergic reactions but rather the other ingredients that may be present in the glue.
Potential Allergens in Lash Adhesives:
a) Formaldehyde: Some lash adhesives contain formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, which are known allergens. Formaldehyde can cause skin irritation and trigger allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin.
b) Latex: Latex is another common allergen found in lash adhesives. Individuals with latex allergies may experience contact dermatitis, characterized by redness, itching, and swelling of the eyelid area.
c) Fragrances and other additives: Lash adhesives may also contain fragrances and other additives, such as dyes and solvents, that can potentially induce allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.

Sensitization and Allergic Reactions:
When people are exposed to a particular allergen for the first time, their immune system may not react. However, the immune system can become sensitized with repeated exposure and develop an allergic response. In the case of lash adhesives, individuals repeatedly exposed to the allergens present in the adhesive may eventually develop an allergic reaction.

Contact Dermatitis:
Allergic reactions to lash adhesives often manifest as contact dermatitis, which is characterized by redness, itching, swelling, and sometimes even blisters or hives in the eyelid area. These symptoms typically occur within 24 to 48 hours after the adhesive is applied.

Prevention and Management:
To prevent allergic reactions to lash adhesives, it is essential to:
- Perform a patch test before completing the application to check for adverse reactions.

- Adhesive should NOT be touching the skin
- If an allergic reaction occurs, discontinue use immediately and remove lashes and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
- Choose wisely. Use an adhesive that has shown positive results.
- If you can't read the ingredients, toss it.