Eyelash glue – how to work with it and what is polymerization?
16th May 2024
Working with eyelash glue is a daily task for every stylist. Many modern stylists are seeking substances that are as safe as possible for their clients. There's nothing wrong with that, but many myths have surfaced in the industry, and we'll debunk them in this article. Read on to learn how to choose the right glue for eyelash styling and how to use it for long-lasting, impressive results.
Facts and myths about eyelash glue: what every lash stylist should know
Choosing the right eyelash glue and mastering the proper techniques for applying false lashes are essential to satisfying clients and elevating your service quality. Working with glue isn't difficult if you know how to apply it and the optimal conditions for using it.
Here are some myths about eyelash glue that you should never believe:
1. You need a different type of glue for every eyelash extension style. This is incorrect. You can use a single product throughout the year to create all your styles.
2. There isn't a product suitable for people with allergies. Every eyelash glue contains fume-producing substances (acrylate compounds) that pose a risk of allergic reactions.
3. All eyelash glues polymerize in the same amount of time. This is not true. Depending on the type of glue, the curing time varies. Some can bond false lashes to natural ones in a second, while others take two seconds. It's worth noting that polymerization time is also influenced by the stylist's technique, the products used, and the room conditions, which can either speed up or slow down the curing process.
How to choose the ideal eyelash glue: a quick guide for stylists
Working steadily and comfortably with eyelash glue throughout the year requires a thorough analysis of the composition and principles of the product. If you've been in the industry for a while but are still wondering how to choose the perfect glue, consider these factors:
1. Curing time
2. The concentration of cyanoacrylate in the composition
3. Shelf life
4. Recommended working temperature and humidity
5. Retention period
Using these parameters, you'll be able to choose the perfect eyelash glue to create stunning styles for your clients. Remember to rely on tried and recommended products. Try the low-fume Rarity PRO eyelash glue, designed for both classic and volume techniques. It's a versatile adhesive that can be used all year.
Polymerization and working with eyelash glue: how to prepare for efficient styling
Before applying false lashes to your client, you need not only cyanoacrylate glue but also accelerators—alkaline products that help the glue bond quickly and precisely.
For working with cyanoacrylates, you need the proper surface and conditions. The base here is the natural lash to which you attach synthetic clusters. Glues only polymerize in neutral environments, never acidic ones. Creating an alkaline environment ensures rapid bonding.
Natural lashes often have a slightly acidic pH, which isn't ideal for glue. Prepare the surface by using glue accelerators like eyelash shampoos and glue accelerators. If you want to change the pH of the lashes, you can use a cleanser and shampoo to ensure smooth polymerization.
Neutralizing eyelash glue odor: why is it important?
Eyelash glues are potent substances that often emit an unpleasant odor, which can make clients uncomfortable. But that's not the only issue—frequent exposure and inhalation can lead to dependency, resulting in apathy, fatigue, depression, and anxiety.
Luckily, as a stylist, you can avoid this problem by using a professional glue odor neutralizer. This will remove the glue's odor completely. Interestingly, neutralizers aren't just sprays or jars used during application but can also include certain potted plants.