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Introduction to Eyelash Glues
Psssst, meet your new best friend, eyelash glue. These cosmetic marvels are the eyelash tech's best-kept secret behind those fluttering, voluminous lashes your clients come to you for. Its main role is to ensure that the lash extensions stay put as they endure the challenges of sweat, tears, and even the occasional touch or rub.
Like any good artist, knowing the correct tools for your work makes all the difference, and there are several types of eyelash glue that you can use. Each has its unique properties and use cases. Ethyl-Cyanoacrylate (ECA), for instance, is a common ingredient in many eyelash glues. ECA is favoured for its fast-drying properties and strong bond. However, its strong odour and potential for eye irritation are worth noting.
Then there are specific brand products like our very own Silk Touch Lashes lash glues, We offer a range of glues in different drying speeds so you can use them no matter how quick your lash game is. For those of you who are a pro at quick application check out our Haste 0.5 sec glue. Or for those of you who like a slow and steady application our 2 sec glue is for you.
The right lash glue keeps your extensions on point with no premature goodbyes. Discover your perfect lash glue match as we guide you through the different types you can use to make your client's lash dreams come true, highlighting their strengths and shortcomings alongside common issues you may have
Understanding Ethyl-Cyanoacrylate (ECA) Eyelash Glues
The most common eyelash glue you will probably use during your daily work as a lash artist is Ethyl-Cyanoacrylate (ECA), but what is it, and why do we need to know about it? We hear you ask. Well, bestie, let's delve deeper into this fascinating compound and its role in the world of lash enhancement.
What is Ethyl-Cyanoacrylate?
Ethyl-Cyanoacrylate is a type of cyanoacrylate, which are quick-drying adhesives that turn into plastic upon coming into contact with water. This acrylic resin is produced through the condensation of formaldehyde with ethyl cyanoacetate, an exothermic reaction that results in a polymer. The polymer is then thermally "cracked" to produce the monomer, or single unit, of ECA.
Why is ECA Commonly Used in Eyelash Extension Glue?
ECA earned its place as one of the most popular eyelash glues due to its unique properties from forming rapid strong bonds when exposed to water, which makes a long-lasting lash extension last so long due to its low fumes and medium toxicity. We highly recommend using ECAs in your lash extension kit as it's safer for you and your clients.
The Pros and Cons of ECA Eyelash Glues
We all love a good pros and cons list, and knowing the strengths and weaknesses of your eyelash glues gives you the expertise to know when to use them.
On the plus side, these adhesives dry quickly and form a strong bond, which are essential traits for effective eyelash extension application. The fast-drying nature ensures the lashes stay in place immediately after application, while the strong bond guarantees long-lasting extensions.
But before you rejoice that you have found the one, ECA eyelash glues have their drawbacks. They're known for having a strong odour, which some users may find off-putting. Additionally, there's a potential risk for eye irritation, especially for individuals with sensitive eyes or those who are prone to allergies. To ensure this doesn't happen, remember to conduct a patch test on every client so there are no nasty surprises for them or you after an appointment.
Despite these downsides, the benefits of ECA eyelash glues continue to make them a popular choice in the beauty industry, with their use extending beyond lash extensions to include other cosmetic applications such as nail enhancements.
A Spotlight on Silk Touch Adhesives
We know that the right eyelash glue makes all the difference, it's the difference between perfect, long-lasting lashes and those whoops lost one moment. One of the benefits of running our own lounge is that, at Silk Touch Lashes, we get to rigorously test each of our products before we even think about selling. We only want the best of the best for you, our clients.
We initially tested nine formulas from 4 different providers on over 5,000 customers. We received feedback to help us find the best glue for you no matter what drying speed you want (we see you miss quick application!) before finding the perfect three for you, no matter your application speed.
We offer three different eyelash glues at various drying speeds, including our adhesive 2 second for those of you that like to take your time to make sure you get that perfect, fluffy lash look, a 1 second glue for those of you that like to get the job done quickly and 0.5 for super speedy applications, letting you fly through your appointments without losing quality. To ensure you can create the perfect lash looks at any time, each glue has a super long shelf life of 8 weeks and is highly resistant to heat, humidity and water, so you can easily show off your lash skills no matter the weather!
So remember to grab your Silk Touch Eyelash Glue today and keep creating those fabulous lash looks your clients crave.
Common Issues with Eyelash Glues
When it comes to eyelash glues, it can be a challenging ride. Several issues can arise that make your lash application process frustrating. But don't worry! In this section, we will tackle some of the most common problems faced by users and offer you handy tips and tricks for troubleshooting these issues.
Problem 1: Glue Not Sticking
One of the most common issues users face is the glue not sticking properly, leading to premature extensions falling out (and angry customers). This problem often arises from incorrect use of adhesive. If you notice this happening, take stock of if you use too much glue, which can increase the drying time, creating clumps and necessitating lots of separation. On the other hand, using too little adhesive results in poor retention of the extensions.
The key is finding the right balance in the glue used. Don't worry; as you gain confidence and experience, you will find the perfect amount that works for you and keeps your client's lashes long-lasting and beautiful.
Problem 2: Glue Drying-Up Inside the Bottle
Glue is essential for any lash technician, and finding it’s gone hard or dried up in the bottle, especially before an appointment, can feel like the world is ending. Remember, once the glue bottle is opened, air starts getting inside, initiating polymerisation inside the bottle. To slow down this process, 'burp' your lash adhesive bottle before squeezing out a fresh drop of glue. This means turning the bottle upright and squeezing out the drop of glue stuck at the top of the nozzle. This practice ensures that all your glue drops are fresh, improving retention and extending the shelf life of your lash extension glue.
Problem 3: Wrong Preservation
You can resolve most of your problems by preserving your eyelash glue. You wouldn't just throw your tweezers to the bottom of your bag and hope for the best. Then why would you do so with your eyelash glue? From not remembering to regularly clean the nozzle so it is nice and clean (This is your PSA to remember to clean your nozzle) to not correctly storing your eyelash glue away, you run the risk of speeding up the process of your eyelash glue drying in the bottle and even the glue not sticking properly during use. Don't worry, angel; we’ve got you with our airtight adhesive container, which stores up to three of your favourite eyelash glues, so you are always ready for your next client.
Problem 4: Unideal Room Conditions
Having the perfect space to do your work is also crucial. Too much or too little humidity in the room can impact how your glue dries and interfere with the application process. High humidity causes the adhesive to dry too quickly, while low humidity slows the drying process. You want to ensure the room's temperature and humidity are just right to get the optimal results as you apply lashes.
Problem 5: Stringy Lash Glue
No one wants stringy lash glue, so how can we make sure this doesn't happen? Well, firstly, it is happening because the adhesive is too hot or too cold, affecting the viscosity of your glue. Make sure the workroom is the perfect temperature, and always give your glue a good shake before opening and in between uses to make sure the ingredients are mixed, which will result in better retention after application.
In the world of eyelash extensions, troubleshooting is part of the game, and having the knowledge to solve these common issues can make your lash application process a breeze. Stay tuned for more insights in the next section!
Choosing the Right Eyelash Glue for You
The right eyelash glue can transform your latest lash look from ordinary to extraordinary in minutes, enhancing the allure of your client's eyes. Whether you are a beginner, an expert or even the quickest lasher in the UK, we promise you an eyelash glue.
The adhesive you choose can make or break your lash game, and it's essential to consider several factors when making this decision. These include your client's skin type, the look you are creating, and your skill level.
Your Client's Skin Type
Before you create those stunning lash looks your clients are dying for, always do a patch test before using new eyelash glue to avoid unexpected allergic reactions on a client. Whether you have a new client or are trying a new glue regularly, your clients will thank you for doing this. As with skincare products, different skin types respond differently to various ingredients in eyelash glues. Clients with sensitive skin may react negatively to certain types of adhesives, especially those containing Ethyl-Cyanoacrylate, a common ingredient known to cause irritation in some people. Investing in an ECA-free eyelash glue may be the way to go, but a drawback is that they don't bond as strongly, so your clients may find themselves rebooking with you earlier than planned.
On the other hand, if your skin is more resilient, most eyelash glues should work well for you.
The Look You Want to Achieve
Depending on what your clients have asked for, a dramatic, voluminous lash look or a subtler, natural enhancement, the glue you use can play a significant role. Clear eyelash glues, for example, can provide a more natural effect, especially for those with lighter or finer lashes since the colour won't interfere with their natural look. Conversely, a darker adhesive might be your best bet if you're aiming for a more intense look.
Your Skill Level
Let's talk about why your skill level is crucial to picking the correct eyelash glue. Like Goldilocks, finding your perfect match makes all the difference. As a beginner, focus on slower-setting glues so you have time to adjust the lash placement before it has dried. If that’s you, try our 2-second adhesive because you can’t rush perfection.
For more experienced users, quick-drying glues like our 1- and 0.5-second glues can be more convenient, allowing faster application. Remember that what works for one person might not necessarily work for you. Every lash artist is different, so feel free to experiment with different brands and find the one that suits you best.
Conclusion
To recap, we have ventured deep into the world of eyelash glues, exploring their various types, properties, uses, and potential issues. As we have learned, eyelash glue is an adhesive and crucial element in achieving that perfect fluttery look.
We delved into the composition of Ethyl-Cyanoacrylate (ECA), the most commonly used ingredient in eyelash glues due to its strong bonding and fast-drying properties. However, it's important to remember that these benefits have drawbacks, such as a potent odour and potential for eye irritation. Offering an alternative, ECA-free eyelash glue for clients who are allergic or have sensitive skin is a must.
Depending on the look you are going for can depend on what type of glue you go for; a clear eyelash glue is great for a more natural look or if your client has lighter natural lashes or wants brown and coloured lashes. For those looking to take their lash game to the next level and add drama, a darker adhesive might be your best bet if you're aiming for a more intense look.
In the end, choosing the right eyelash glue boils down to your individual needs and preferences. Factors such as skin type, the look you want, and your skill level should guide your choice when choosing eyelash glue. For example, why not opt for a faster-drying glue for quicker placement when creating a classic look? Like with Cinderella and the glass slipper, the right size fits your needs.
That said, Don't be afraid to experiment! The world of eyelash glues is vast and continually evolving. It's all about finding the one that works best for you.
After all, beauty is a personal journey, and every step you take brings you closer to finding your perfect match. Here's to long-lasting, beautiful lashes!