There's a lot we need to know about
eyelash extension adhesives. With so many brands offering similar things, we first need to understand how an adhesive works.
The main component: Cyanoacrylate glue
As we know, the main component of eyelash extension adhesives is cyanoacrylate, of which there are many types. Methyl-2 cyanoacrylate is designed to bond two surfaces — in this case, the eyelash extension with the natural lash. This compound is designed to work around the eyes, but without touching the skin.
The adhesive
cures with moisture. Curing means it goes from a liquid state to a solid state. It's important for the glue to be flexible and strong, so the client won't feel any heaviness in the eye.
Measure the right humidity for your adhesive
For the adhesive to cure properly, we should have a thermometer at our workstation that measures temperature and humidity. The ideal temperature would be between 19º-23ºC, with a humidity level between 45% and 75%.
The lower the humidity, the slower the adhesive will cure. To measure these values, you should always have a thermo-hygrometer in your treatment room, which you can find available on our website.
Where to store the adhesive
We need to store the adhesive under optimal conditions: away from moisture, sunlight and heat. Clean the glue nozzle very well and store it with the cap tightly closed. Keep your adhesive in its airtight bag with the silica gel packet inside to absorb moisture.
Once you've opened the adhesive,
DO NOT STORE IT IN THE FRIDGE. The temperature change will alter the glue's compounds and it may lose its effectiveness.
If you've never opened the adhesive, you can store it in the fridge to extend its shelf life by a few more months.
Adhesive freshness
We should keep in mind that cyanoacrylate, the main component of fast-bonding adhesives, is active whether the bottle is open or closed. The
shelf life of eyelash extension adhesives is around six months (if the bottle is unopened) and two months once the bottle has been opened and is in use. A serious issue is buying an adhesive that has already been sitting on shelves for many months, since its remaining shelf life will be shorter. Don't forget to check the manufacturing date of the adhesive when you buy it, to make sure how long you can store it before you start using it.
Formaldehyde
This compound is used in the manufacturing of adhesives. The amount contained in an adhesive is so small that adhesives are often considered formaldehyde-free.
All our adhesives comply with European Union pharmaceutical regulations, and Spanish regulations in particular, so these adhesives can be used without any risk to health.
Allergies to eyelash extension adhesive
Many cosmetics can cause an allergic reaction when they come into contact with our bodies. In our case, we may come across
people intolerant to eyelash extensions (this intolerance is usually actually to the adhesive). This is caused by the cyanoacrylate, the stabilizers or the coloring agent (carbon black).
If a client is allergic to the coloring agent, we can use a clear extension adhesive. If she's allergic to any of the other components, don't apply eyelash extensions — try other alternatives such as a lash lift.
Curing
Full curing of the extensions once you've finished the service can take about 30 seconds, although after just one second you won't be able to remove the extension anymore. This ensures that the client will open her eyes and won't be bothered by any glue fumes, since it will be completely dry.
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