Eyelash Extension Glue: Pro Guide to Safety & Use
In the practice of applying eyelash extensions, one of the most critical items influencing client satisfaction and safety is the glue (adhesive). Correctly understanding the types and properties of glue and handling it appropriately is an essential skill for any professional lash technician.
This article provides a comprehensive guide for professionals, covering everything from the basic role of eyelash extension glue to safe application techniques, selection criteria, and crucial precautions to avoid potential issues.
What is Eyelash Extension Glue? Understanding its Basic Role
Eyelash extension glue is a specialized adhesive designed to bond artificial lashes to the client's natural lashes. Glues come in various types, each differing in viscosity (texture) and set time (curing speed).
Technicians must select the optimal glue based on their skill level and working environment (room temperature, humidity, etc.) and must fully understand the characteristics of the chosen glue to use it effectively.
【Crucial】Glue Usage Precautions and Trouble Prevention
Many issues related to eyelash extensions arise from mishandling the glue or a lack of knowledge. Pay close attention to the following points to ensure safe application:
-
Skin Contact is Strictly Prohibited: Glue must never touch the skin. It is designed solely for bonding the natural lash and the extension.
-
Maintain Correct Placement: The standard practice is to apply extensions 1-2mm away from the base of the natural lash line.
(Note: For less experienced technicians or students, applying 2mm away is recommended as a safety margin.)
Do not compromise this fundamental rule for aesthetic reasons or to potentially improve retention. -
Risks of Applying "Too Close to the Root": Placing extensions too close to the lash line or mucous membrane increases the risk of glue touching the eyelid or volatile components irritating the membrane. This can lead to itching, rashes, redness, swelling, and other forms of inflammation, potentially causing serious problems.
-
Use Clean Tweezers: Using tweezers with glue residue can impair handling and inadvertently cause glue to contact the skin. Keep tweezers clean by wiping them frequently.
Selecting Glue Based on Your Work Environment
The curing reaction of glue is significantly affected by the application environment:
-
Temperature and Humidity: Room temperature and humidity directly impact the glue's curing speed.
-
Chemical Influences (Especially in Hair Salons): Amine components from hair color (affecting indoor ammonia gas concentration) and alkaline components from perms can also affect glue curing. When working in a salon environment, it's common to choose "salon-specific" glues designed to withstand these influences.
-
Curing Time: For client comfort and enhanced safety, fast-curing glues with a "full cure time of approximately 2 hours or less" are ideal. This reduces exposure time to volatile substances and allows for less restrictive post-application care, such as facial washing.
Understanding Glue Ingredients: What is Cyanoacrylate?
Typically, eyelash extension glues consist of the following components:
-
Adhesive Agent: Cyanoacrylate (Main ingredient: usually 80% or more)
-
Thickening Agent: Acrylic resin, etc. (Added in small amounts to adjust viscosity and curing speed)
-
Coloring Agent: Carbon black, etc. (Added in small amounts for color and reinforcement)
Cyanoacrylate is widely known as the main component in "super glue." While various types exist for industrial, medical, and household use, eyelash extension glues utilize formulations specifically adapted for use near the eyes. Note: If using a glue where cyanoacrylate is not the main ingredient, you must verify what the primary component is.
Warning! Common Glue-Related Problems and Their Causes
Common issues that can occur with glue usage include:
-
Itchy or swollen eyelids
-
Eye redness, pain, or a gritty sensation
-
Allergic reactions
The primary causes often include:
-
Glue coming into contact with pores or skin.
-
Using an excessive amount of glue.
-
Touching or wetting the eye area before the glue has fully cured.
-
Using degraded glue (e.g., past its expiration date after opening).
Absolute Don'ts: Incorrect Glue Handling Practices
The following actions can compromise glue performance and potentially lead to serious issues. Absolutely do not:
-
Mix different types of glue together.
-
Transfer glue to another container.
-
Dispense glue onto anything other than a dedicated glue tray or plate.
-
Attempt to dissolve and reuse hardened glue.
-
Use glue beyond its expiration date.
Conclusion: Deepen Your Glue Knowledge for Safe, High-Quality Applications
Eyelash extension glue is fundamental to the quality and safety of your services. A deep understanding of glue types, properties, correct usage, and potential risks is key to earning client trust and thriving as a professional.
Continuously update your knowledge and always strive for meticulous, by-the-book application techniques.
Explore our full range of professional lash products, designed for optimal performance and client satisfaction.
