Lash Glue Blooming: Causes, Prevention & Fixes

Have you ever noticed a whitish appearance on or around eyelash extensions after application? This is known as "blooming" or the "whitening effect." It's particularly common during the humid rainy season and summer months and can lead to client complaints and dissatisfaction. Why does this phenomenon occur, and how can it be prevented?

This article provides a detailed guide for professional lash artists, explaining the mechanism behind eyelash extension glue blooming, its causes, specific preventive measures, and what to do if it happens.

What is Glue "Blooming"? Understanding the Mechanism

Blooming occurs when trace amounts of volatile substances (primarily cyanoacrylate monomers/polymers), generated during the glue's curing process, settle onto the surface of the natural lashes, extensions, or surrounding skin. This deposit creates a visible white, powdery appearance.

While the frequency can vary depending on the glue's characteristics, blooming is especially prone to happen in high-humidity environments (like the rainy season or summer). It's also more likely to occur with insufficient pre-application preparation, the use of unsanitary artificial lashes, or if the lashes come into contact with moisture immediately after the service.

Simple Experiment: You can observe this effect by placing a drop of glue on a plate inside a sealed container (like a petri dish). Before sealing, place a fingerprint on the lid and part of the plate. You'll notice the blooming effect appearing predominantly on the fingerprint areas (which contain proteins and oils), demonstrating how moisture, oils, and contaminants can trigger a rapid glue reaction.

Why Does Blooming Happen? Main Causes Checklist

Here are the primary potential causes of the blooming effect:

• Client-Related Factors:

  • Leaving sweat or tears on the eye area during application.

• Product/Technique-Related Factors:

  • Using unsanitary artificial lashes.

  • Improper pre-application preparation (leaving residue from makeup, oils, remover, cleansers, or prep agents).

  • Touching the natural lashes with fingers after preparation.

  • Applying too much or too little glue.

  • Insufficient drying/curing of the glue with an air blower/fan at the end.

• Post-Application Factors:

  • Contact with water (e.g., washing face, bathing) immediately after the service.

Actual and enlarged images

Preventing Blooming Before It Starts: Proactive Measures for Technicians

Blooming can be significantly reduced with proper knowledge and meticulous technique.

1. Pre-Application Setup:

   • Use clean, high-quality artificial lashes.

   • Thoroughly wipe away any sweat from the client's eye area before starting.

2. Thorough Preparation:

   • Reliably remove oils and dirt from natural lashes using a dedicated prep agent/primer.

   • Ensure no prep agent residue remains and thoroughly dry the lashes with an air blower/fan.

   • Take extreme care not to touch the lashes with fingers after preparation.

3. Appropriate Glue Application:

   • Understand the properties of the glue you are using (viscosity, set time) and apply the correct amount.

4. Proper Finishing:

   • After application, always ensure sufficient drying/curing time using an air blower/fan.

5. Client Aftercare Instructions:

   • Clearly instruct clients to avoid getting the eye area wet (washing, bathing) and to stay away from highly humid environments on the day of the application.

What If Blooming Occurs? Correct Responses and What NOT to Do

Here’s how to handle blooming if it happens:

• Absolute NO:

  • Do not rub the affected area: The white powdery substance could get into the eyes. Never rub it.

• Recommended Solution:

  • Reapplication: The safest and most reliable method is to remove the affected extensions and reapply them.

• Temporary Fix:

  • Apply a Dedicated Coating Sealant: If immediate reapplication isn't feasible, applying a specialized eyelash extension coating sealant can sometimes help mask the white appearance temporarily.

    

    MATSUKAZE Coating Essence

Blooming is More Than Cosmetic: It Affects Retention and Can Cause Itching

The occurrence of blooming indicates that the glue did not cure under ideal conditions. When the curing reaction is accelerated by excess moisture or contaminants, the glue may not achieve its full bonding strength, potentially leading to reduced eyelash extension retention. Furthermore, improper curing could potentially contribute to itching or other sensitivities.

Conclusion: Prevent Blooming & Boost Client Satisfaction with Knowledge and Care

Glue blooming is more than just an aesthetic issue; it's a sign related to retention and safety. The causes often lie in environmental factors (especially humidity) and moisture/oil management during the application process. Paying close attention to humidity control, especially during humid seasons, along with meticulous preparation and proper glue handling, is key to preventing blooming and increasing client satisfaction. Equip yourself with the right knowledge and apply it diligently in your daily practice.

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