How to Improve Lash Glue Retention? Secrets to Long-Lasting Lash Applications

The durability of eyelash extensions doesn’t depend only on the glue — it’s the result of the entire process: proper lash preparation, ideal working conditions, precise technique, and good hygiene.
Discover how to extend lash retention, avoid common mistakes, and ensure a flawless result every time.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• How to properly prepare natural lashes before application

• When to use cleaner and primer

• How to choose the right glue and maintain its performance

• How to avoid harmful glue fumes during application

• Which health factors affect lash retention

• What shock polymerization is and how to prevent it

Preparing the natural lashes

The foundation of long-lasting lash extensions is perfectly clean natural lashes.
Any makeup or oil residue can make the glue slide off and weaken the bond.

How to clean the lashes correctly:

Use a double-cleansing method:

1. First, wipe the eye area with non-oily micellar water.

2. Then use a lash shampoo to remove dirt and impurities.

3. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

When doing infills, use a wide disposable applicator soaked in micellar water to clean the spaces between the lashes.

Tip: Don’t forget the lower lash line — leftover makeup from the bottom lashes can transfer to the top ones and reduce retention.

2️⃣ Disinfecting the lash strip

Before application, clean the lash strip with an applicator soaked in a disinfecting solution.
Once dry, gently brush the lashes with a clean spoolie.
This simple step enhances safety, hygiene, and retention.

3️⃣ Supporting products – when to use them?

Cleaner

Used to degrease natural lashes. Apply only when necessary:

• if the client has oily skin or hormonal imbalance,

• or when the glue doesn’t bond immediately despite proper cleansing.

Tip: Don’t clean all lashes at once — only the section you’ll be working on for the next 15 minutes. Sebum production is cyclical, so reapplication may be needed later.

Primer

Use it to speed up glue curing, especially when working fast or in less-than-ideal humidity conditions.

4️⃣ The glue – the heart of lash application

Choosing the right glue and maintaining proper working conditions is the key to success.
The glue should act like a magnet — it needs to match the room’s humidity and temperature.

• Optimal humidity: 48–52%

• Use a hygrometer to monitor conditions constantly.

Too high humidity → glue cures too fast
Too low humidity → glue cures too slowly

You can adjust it by:

• using a humidifier,

• adjusting air conditioning,

• or applying primer on the natural lashes.

Tip: Choose glues with a wide working range (30–80%) for more stability in any environment.

5️⃣ Glue consistency and drop replacement

A thinner glue gives you cleaner and more precise application.
Thicker glues may cause stickies and shorten retention.

How often should you replace the glue drop?

• Autumn/Winter: every 20–30 minutes

• Summer: every 5–10 minutes (heat thickens the glue faster)

6️⃣ Storing and preparing the glue

• Shake the bottle for 15 seconds before use.

• Discard the first two drops after opening — they contain volatile components that weaken bonding.

• Wipe the nozzle after every use to prevent clogging.

Tip: Try No Shake Glue – Noble Lashes’ innovative, ready-to-use adhesive that doesn’t require shaking.

7️⃣ Hygiene and workplace safety

After each client, air out your room to minimize glue fumes and refresh the air.
Always neutralize the leftover glue drop with a bit of water (e.g., a misting bottle).

If you work in a salon with multiple services (hair, nails, etc.), be aware that chemical vapors from sprays or nail products can alter the glue’s composition.
Whenever possible, separate your lash station or ensure proper ventilation.

8️⃣ Glue amount and application technique

Too much glue can cause stickies, poor isolation, and an uneven look.
Keep your hand steady and control the amount used.

Tip:

• For classic 1:1, dip the lash at a 45° angle.

• For volume fans, dip straight down (90°).
  This ensures the glue coats the lash base evenly.

9️⃣ Clients requiring special attention

Certain health conditions can significantly affect lash retention:

• hormonal imbalances,

• pregnancy or menstruation,

• antibiotic therapy (wait about one month after finishing treatment).

If retention issues persist despite proper technique, it may be best to pause the treatment until the client’s health stabilizes.

Shock polymerization

Sometimes, tears or exposure to strong glue fumes can cause shock polymerization — the glue cures instantly, creating a brittle bond that doesn’t last.

To avoid this:

• maintain ideal humidity and temperature,

• provide good ventilation,

• monitor your client’s comfort during application.

Work consciously with Noble Lashes

Ensure perfect retention, comfort, and client safety with professional products from Noble Lashes.
Our high-quality glues, cleaners, primers, and accessories help lash artists achieve beautiful, long-lasting, and safe lash sets every time.