How to Improve Eyelash Extension Retention

In the lashing world, retention refers to the length of time your eyelash extensions last. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee of the exact lifespan of lash extensions. The indicated retention on your lash adhesive’s label is merely an estimation based on the most ideal conditions and the notion you have followed all the guidelines indicated. 

On that note, there are factors you can control that will affect your client’s retention. However, once they leave your space, it is now their responsibility to look after their lash extensions. But before they head out the door, here are 4 ways to improve your lashing retention:

1. Make sure your products are not expired for retention

The freshness of the lash adhesive you use is a great factor in determining how long the lash extensions last. 

Lash adhesives are formulated with cyanoacrylate and other ingredients. As time goes by, the ingredients start to separate and with oxidation lose their efficiency. When using your glue make sure to thoroughly shake your bottle, this will emulsify the ingredients and in turn allow your adhesive to perform at its optimum level. 

However, if the lash glue you are using is expired, the ingredients are not as fresh, resulting in weaker bonds and poor retention. So, make sure to check the expiration date and shelf life of your lash glue before using it. Pro tip: label your bottle with the date you opened it and prevent any guesswork. 

2. Focus on eyelash prep for retention (clean+primer)

Don’t skip the prep! Having clean eyelashes before lashing is very important to ensure long-lasting retention. Oil, dust, makeup residue, and debris decrease the lash retention and weaken the bond of your lash adhesive. Use an oil-free and extension-friendly cleanser to wash your client’s eyelashes. 

Then apply a layer of lash primer to ensure no oil, dust, residue, or debris is left in your client’s eyelashes. A lash primer balances the pH level in your client’s eyelashes which helps improve lash retention.

Prep your client’s eyelashes properly! 

3. Teach your clients proper aftercare for retention

Your client’s daily routine is a big reason why their eyelash extensions fall off earlier than expected. Teach your client proper aftercare routines, the do’s and don’ts, and include product suggestions. Make sure to include the ingredients they should avoid as well. 

Emphasize the need to clean their eyelashes DAILY. Use the right lash cleanser and mascara wands to comb and remove all the stuck residue and dust that may have built up in their lashes and lashline.

Remind your clients not to dilute products like cleansers if they are not supposed to be diluted just to save money. When a cleanser is diluted even though they are not supposed to, their effectiveness will be decreased. This means the cleansers will not be able to remove all the unwanted debris, oil, dirt, and makeup residue in their eyelashes leading to premature shedding.

4. Work in the optimal environment to increase retention

Use a hygrometer and thermometer to measure the humidity and temperature in your lash room. Check the label of your lash glue. The manufacturers always put the advised ideal room temperature and humidity level the lash adhesive performs the best in.  

Make sure the humidity and temperature inside your lash room are within the advised range. Too low humidity will slow the drying process of your lash glue, while if it’s too high, the drying will be too quick. In both cases, the bond will be weak and the lash retention will not last.

Need more retention tips? 

Here are a few more helpful tips:

Make sure the lash extensions are perfectly parallel to your client’s natural lashes. If the extensions are not fully connected at the base, dirt, debris, and oil will accumulate quickly. The buildup will begin breaking down the bond, causing it to become weak. Ensure your extension bases are placed flush with the natural lash, this will give your adhesive the greatest surface area to bond onto and will also make your sets look seamless.   

Treat your lash adhesives right. Store and treat your glue well. Your retention depends on it. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines and if possible know when it was made to ensure proper shelf-life storage. 

Try shock curing. But don’t overdo it. Nano misting is one of the best ways to help improve lash retention. Place the nano mister at least 12 inches away from your client’s face. Do this for 30 seconds max. Anything over 30 seconds will be doing the opposite of shock curing. You don’t want to see beads of water on your client’s lashes. 

Advise your clients about makeup. Educate your clients to avoid any makeup containing oil. Waterproof eye makeup is difficult to remove and not ideal for extensions. Regardless of whatever makeup your clients decide to use, when removing, clients should be gentle with their eyelashes and never tug at them.

Best lash extension glue for retention

There are many lash glues available in the market today. I understand how confusing it is to look for lash adhesive. In addition, clients have different needs. Here are 5 of the best lash extension glue for retention we carry:

Supreme Adhesive (4 - 5 weeks)

This lash glue is commonly used by experienced lash artists. Supreme Adhesive dries very quickly, 2 seconds max. Lash retention is 4 to 5 weeks depending on your client's aftercare routines. 

• 1 to 2 seconds drying time
• Black color
• Low fume
• Lash retention: 4 to 5 weeks
• Ideal for intermediate to advanced lash artists
• Classic and Volume lashes

Elite Adhesive (6 - 7 weeks)

Elite Adhesive can be used by beginners or lash artists who are practicing because of its viscosity. Many newbies like the “thickness” of working with this adhesive and its forgivable drying time. The lash retention is approximately 6 to 7 weeks. 

• 2 seconds drying time
• Black color
• Lash retention: 6 to 7 weeks 
• Classic and Volume lashes 

LBLA Omega Adhesive (7 - 8 weeks)

The special thing about LBLA Omega Adhesive is its drying time. It depends on the humidity level in your lash room. If it is within 65% to 70%, the drying time is instant; 40% to 55%, the drying time is 0.5 to 1 second; and 25% to 40%, it needs 1 to 2 seconds to dry. This is one of the reasons why many lash techs love this lash glue. You can easily adjust the drying time by adjusting the humidity without weakening the retention.

• Instant to 2 seconds drying time (depending on the humidity)
• Semi black color
• Minimal fumes
• Great for mega volume lash extensions
• Lash retention: 7 to 8 weeks 

If your client is going for mega volume lashes and wants them to last for a long time, you should definitely consider using LBLA Omega Adhesive.

SUGARLASH Bond Noir Adhesive (Up to 8 weeks)

This lash glue is ideal for both classic and volume lashes. SUGARLASH Bond Noir Adhesive only needs 0.5 seconds to dry. That is why you need to be able to keep up with its drying speed. It has a nice glossy black color that adds a lovely shiny gloss to the eyelashes.

• 0.5 second drying time
• Low fumes
• Glossy black color
• Lash retention: up to 8 weeks
• Ideal for experienced lash techs

SUGARLASH Bond Noir Adhesive has long lash retention and can last up to 8 weeks. Its texture and viscosity are very flexible making it easy to use for experienced techs. 

LASHGOD Supernatural Bond (8 - 10 weeks)

This lash glue is 100% oil-resistant which helps prolong its lash retention and bond. LASHGOD Supernatural Bond has almost instant drying time. Meaning you need to be able to keep up with its drying time. It is commonly used by expert lash technicians. 

• 0.2 to 0.5 drying time
• Jet black color
• Low fumes
• Lash retention: 8 to 10 
• Ideal for experienced lash techs

LASHGOD Supernatural Bond is free from any latex, formaldehyde, and unwanted smells coming from fumes. If your client wants their eyelash extensions to last as long as possible, this lash adhesive is the best one for you! In addition, you can also use it on clients with sensitive skin.

There are many factors that affect the retention of eyelash extensions such as your client’s aftercare routine, lifestyle, etc. You cannot control these things. But what you can do is make sure you explain thoroughly the importance of their aftercare routine and how it affects their eyelashes. Instead, focus on the factors you can control and always use good-quality products in your lash salon. This will save you time and money by keeping your clients happy with their long-lasting extensions. 

For all your lash supply needs, find everything lashes at Cartel Lash or speak to a product specialist at 📞(604) 437-0011 for recommendations!

source https://cartellash.ca/blogs/news/how-to-improve-eyelash-extension-retention

source https://cartellashca.blogspot.com/2022/03/how-to-improve-eyelash-extension.html

6 Reasons You Should Use a Nano Mister for Lash Extensions

As lash artists, your main goal is to give long-lasting and beautiful eyelashes to your lovely clients. However, lash applications tend to take hours. During the whole process, it might get uncomfortable for both you and your client. 

But it is very important to make sure the eyelash glue you use to attach each extension dries properly before going to the next extension. This is usually the part that makes the whole lash application last hours. It is tedious and time-consuming but necessary.

The thing is, your lash adhesive is not done curing (or drying) when your client leaves your lash room, it needs to cure for at least 24 to 48 hours. Your client should avoid getting their lash extensions wet during the curing window to avoid weakening the bond.

Luckily, the lash industry has discovered new and innovative lash extension supplies, tools, products, and accessories that will help extensions last longer, like nano misters, that help speed up the time curing time. 

What is a nano mister?

A nano mister is a small, handheld device that sprays small droplets of water from its nozzle. Its main purpose is to spray water mist over the eyelash extensions that have been recently applied. It aids in effectively and quickly curing the lash adhesive you use.

How does a nano mister work?

Nano misters spray a fine mist of water onto the eyelash extensions evenly. This helps dry and cure the lash adhesive quicker. It might sound unbelievable but it works. The reason for this is the main ingredient in all lash glue, cyanoacrylate, and a scientific process called polymerization. To put it simply, this process is the act of single molecules that are reacting together to form a polymer. 

For lash glues, their liquid form will turn to solid if they come into contact with hydrogen, which can be found in water. By using a small and portable nano mister, you can activate the curing process of your adhesive immediately. Instead of waiting for 24 to 48 hours, this process will help to fully cure your adhesives faster. 

Water is naturally found in the air. Without the help of any devices, the eyelash glue will eventually dry and cure on its own. However, it will take longer, around 24 to 48 hours before it thoroughly cures. Also, there are times when the air is too dry. In this case, it will be nearly impossible for you to attach eyelash extensions properly while lashing. 

If you are still not sold on using nano misters, here are 5 reasons why you should get one!

1. Lash adhesive cures faster

When you are explaining the whole eyelash extension procedure, you need to let your clients know that they have to prevent their lashes from getting wet for 24 to 48 hours after the application. This way the lash glue you used will properly cure and ensure the bond is strong. However, this is not always convenient.

As a lash technician, you need to consider this and find a way to help the adhesive cure quicker. This is where nano misters can help. This small device lets you add moisture to the air which activates the curing process immediately. It can cut the curing time significantly. 

When you are using your nano mister, spray it from a reasonable height over your client’s lashes. Your device will automatically turn off after a specified time. It is usually indicated in your device by the supplier. If not, it usually turns off after 30 seconds.

2.  A Great Option for Humidity Control

Too much hydrogen or water is not a good thing. If there is too much moisture in the air, it will cure your adhesive too quickly and can also dissolve the solvent, breaking the bond of your adhesive. The use of a nano mister is another way technicians can control the humidity in their lash rooms. It is an easy way to add moisture to the air without going overboard.

3. Less eye irritation

All adhesives release fumes, some release more than others. During the lashing process, fumes are released into the air. Some clients are especially sensitive to fumes which can cause eye irritation, whereas other clients may not notice a single thing. 

Their eyes might turn red, watery, and might even feel a stinging or burning sensation. When the air is too dry in your lash room, the lash adhesive will take a long time to cure, resulting in the presence of more fumes in the air. 

If you use a nano mister, the curing process will be quicker and your client’s exposure to fumes will decrease preventing less eye irritations.

4. Decrease retention

If you are in a location where the air is too dry, you’ll need to increase the humidity in your lash room so your glue can cure properly. A nano mister can do this job. The common problem associated with humidity levels is poor retention.

5. Reduce the time clients can get their lashes wet

The usual 24-48 hour waiting time for your clients to get their lashes wet, is reduced. Having to be extra cautious during this window can be very inconvenient and sometimes not realistic. Decreasing this waiting period for your clients is greatly appreciated! 

Advantages of a nano mister

There are many advantages of using nano misters, the main one is the quicker curing process of your adhesive making them one of the must-haves for many lash artists. This is very advantageous for both you and your client.

Disadvantages of a nano mister

Nano misters are perfect for locations where the humidity is too low. However, there are instances where they are not advisable and improper use might cause you more problems than solutions. 

If you are in a location where the humidity is too high, using a nano mister will give you more problems. In these cases, we highly recommend against using a nano mister because it will make the adhesive cure quicker than expected. The eyelash extensions will not have the time to properly and fully attach resulting in poor retention.

It might result in shock polymerization. This is when too many water droplets are added to the lashes. It will turn the eyelash extensions white which are not nice to look at.

When the lash adhesives cure at their own pace, the resulting bond holding the extensions to the natural lashes will be more flexible. However, if you shock the curing process, it will make the bond harder and more brittle. Meaning, it will be more prone to breakage.

How to use a nano mister

Before you start your lash application, make sure to fully charge your nano mister. Then, fill the water tank with distilled water. You can also use tap water, but there is a higher chance of hard water build-up. This will wear out your device quicker. That’s why we highly recommend using bottled distilled water.

After you are done air drying your client’s eyelashes, get your nano mister. Hold it upright 8 to 16 inches away from your client’s lashes. Turn it on and move your hand in an even swaying motion across your client’s eyelashes. Do not stop moving your hand. The nano mister will automatically stop at approximately 30 seconds, which is the recommended time. Do not put the device directly at your client’s lashes because it will cause over-saturation.

There are many pros and cons of using a nano mister. It is up to you if you want to use them during your lash application. If you are worried about allergies but don’t want to use a nano mister, you can use LBLA Anti Allergy Gel while lashing or speak to a Cartel Lash product specialist at 📞(604) 437-0011 for recommendations! 

source https://cartellash.ca/blogs/news/nano-mister-for-lash-extensions

source https://cartellashca.blogspot.com/2022/03/6-reasons-you-should-use-nano-mister.html

How Many Lash Extensions Fall Out a Day

The first thing you need to understand as a lash artist is that lash extensions fall out along with our natural lashes during the lash growth cycle. When the natural lash starts to fall out, the lash extension that is attached will fall along with them.

So, tell your clients not to be surprised when they see extensions fall, this is totally normal and expected.

Number of lash extensions that fall out a day

On average, you lose around 1 to 5 natural eyelashes daily. This means if your lash extensions are attached to your natural lashes, that’s how many lashes will fall out.

This fallout is then replaced with a baby natural lash at the beginning of its lash cycle. However, the speed of growth will vary depending on the person’s age, health, lifestyle, and other factors. 

12 common causes of lash extensions falling out

There are various reasons why lash extensions are falling out, here are a few:

1. The natural lash growth cycle

All hair on a person’s body will undergo a natural growth cycle. It includes Anagen, Catagen, and Telogen. On average the lash growth cycle usually lasts 3 months. Usually, eyelashes are naturally shed when they complete the cycle. This is usually called the shedding phase.

2. Getting their eyelashes wet right after the eyelash extension application

Lash adhesives need 24 to 48 hours to fully cure. Meaning, your client shouldn’t get their eyelashes wet within this time frame. Otherwise, the lash glue used will bond poorly, becoming weak and won’t last long.

3. Medical conditions

Medical conditions such as Alopecia Areata, Truchotillamonia Tangle, Chemotherapy, and Thyroid Condition can cause lash extensions to fall out quicker.

4. Diet 

Your diet can also affect eyelashes. A proper diet will make your eyelashes healthy. In contrast, when the body lacks certain nutrients and vitamins, the hair on the body will become brittle and prone to breakage.

5. Mascara

Wearing mascara, especially waterproof ones, can cause oil, dirt, and other debris to build on the eyelashes and lash line. This can cause the premature breakdown of the adhesive.

6. Lash serum 

Lash serum and other eyelash conditioners help nourish the eyelashes. They help make the eyelashes grow stronger, healthier, and thicker. However, be sure to check the ingredients first. Do not use lash growth serum that contains oils, as it will adversely affect the performance of the adhesive.

7. Weather

When the environment is windy, your eyes easily water. The person will wipe away the tears which cause friction and potentially cause the eyelashes to fall out. Heat and humidity will also affect the drying and curing process of the lash adhesive you use.

8. Improper daily aftercare routine

Clients need to properly clean and brush their eyelashes daily to remove all dirt, oil, and leftover makeup to prevent the bond from weakening.

9. Lash retention of the adhesive you use and improper usage

Check the bonding time of each of the lash adhesives you use. Each bottle has a different bonding time and optimum range for humidity and temperature. Make sure you are familiar with the settings your adhesive needs to perform its best.

10. Sleeping position

Tell your clients to always sleep on their backs or wear 3D eye masks to protect their lash extensions. If they sleep face down, expect eyelashes to fall out a lot sooner. 

11. Touching or picking the eyelashes too much 

Let your clients know to refrain from touching or picking their eyelashes. The fingers contain oils that are harmful to the lash adhesive used and weaken its bond. Touching and picking can become habitual and without even realizing your client will want to pick at their extensions and pull them off prematurely, possibly pulling the natural lash and causing follicle damage. 

12. Application error 

As a lash tech, you need to make sure you properly attach each and every extension. Placement and the proper amount of glue are key! Otherwise, the lash extensions will fall out earlier and your clients will not be happy. 

If you want to ensure your client can enjoy their beautifully applied lash extensions, you need to explain these factors. Especially when it comes to their aftercare routine.

How to make lash extensions last longer

Here are 3 tips you can tell your clients to help their lovely lash extensions last as long as possible:

Be gentle handling lashes

It is very important to let your clients know that they should never rub, tug or pick their eyelashes. They should always BE GENTLE when touching their lashes. 

This is something a lot of lash lovers overlook especially when they woke up. There are people who unconsciously rub their eyes first thing in the morning. 

Brush and clean lash extensions every day

Cleaning and brushing eyelashes daily should always be included in your morning and evening routines. Cleaning the eyelashes will help remove all the dirt, oil, or makeup residue left around your eyelashes and lash line. Also, brushing them will separate individual lashes and preserve the curl.

Use lash extension friendly products

Choosing the right products for your client’s aftercare routine is important. Oil is one of the biggest culprits to why the bond in the lash adhesive doesn’t last. It causes the bond to weaken and break, leading to premature shedding.

Look for oil-free and lash extension friendly products. If your client is using mascara, it is important to not use waterproof! Steer clear of waterproof eyeliner and mascara as they are very hard to remove. While removing them, your client might end up tugging their eyelashes and pulling them out.

Regular maintenance, a proper daily cleaning routine and careful handling can go a long way when it comes to the longevity of your lash extensions. 

For all your lash supply needs, find everything you need at Cartel Lash or speak to a product specialist at 📞(604) 437-0011 for recommendations!

source https://cartellash.ca/blogs/news/how-many-lash-extensions-fall-out-a-day

source https://cartellashca.blogspot.com/2022/03/how-many-lash-extensions-fall-out-day.html

How Seasonal Allergies Affects Your Eyelash Extensions

Believe it or not, many Canadians have or will experience seasonal allergies, at least once in their lives. We are not talking about just 1 season, like the Spring, but rather all 4 seasons, which means you can potentially have seasonal allergies the whole year-round. However, most people will encounter seasonal allergies during the Spring season when pollen is prevalent and in full swing. 

The most common symptoms of seasonal allergies are the following:

• Sneezing 
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Watery and itchy eyes
• Burning sensations in the eyes
• Swollen eyelids
• Dry and red/bloodshot eyes

These symptoms are usually harmless and can be easily cured by taking antihistamines. But in extreme and rare cases, seasonal allergies might lead to extreme discomforts and may even require medical attention.

For lash artists, seasonal allergies are a pain in the neck. It can lead to major retention problems and increases the risks of negative reactions to the client. Here are 3 possible problems and scenarios you might encounter when your client is having seasonal allergies.

Problems with applying eyelash extensions on wet natural lashes

Humidity and temperature are not only the factors that affect the curing process of your lash adhesive. During the lash extension application, as the lash artist, you need to attach every extension. This is a very tedious task especially if the lash glue is not curing as quickly or slowly as you might want. 

If your client has seasonal allergies that are causing their eyes to water, it can speed up the curing process of your adhesive. You need to keep in mind, in order to start the curing process of your lash glue, it needs to be exposed to water.

However, too much exposure to water (or in this case moisture from your eyes) can make your adhesive cure too quickly resulting in poor attachment to the natural lash and overall weak bonds. This will lead to retention problems and may even cause adhesive beads to form (depending on how much adhesive you are using). 

Watery eyes can weaken the adhesive on your eyelash extensions

The real problem with watery eyes or crying because of allergies is not the eyelash extensions getting wet. It is the tears and what they are made of, especially during and immediately after your appointment. 

Tears contain chloride, potassium, and sodium - these are electrolytes - salt, fatty acids, and other proteins. Natural tears are rich in salt and oil which are the #1 enemy of lash glues. Salt and oil can break down the bond which keeps your eyelash extensions in place and connected to natural lashes. 

Cyanoacrylate dissolves when exposed to salt and oil. This compound, cyanoacrylate, is the main ingredient in lash adhesives which strengthens the bond. Hence, when your clients start to get teary, it will weaken the lash glue on your eyelash extensions.

In addition, your client will want to wipe their watery eyes, this could cause premature shedding by inadvertently pulling the lash extensions. This can damage the natural lashes themselves if they are pulled with the lash extensions, which tends to happen when you are not careful with wiping. 

Rubbing your itchy eyes may damage eyelash extensions

As lash technicians and eyelash extension lovers, we all know that these symptoms of seasonal allergies can lead to disasters. Itchiness in the eyes can lead to rubbing then pulling then damaging your lash extensions and natural lashes in the process. 

Rubbing, tugging, or picking at the lashes will damage the eyelash extensions by causing premature shedding. Similar to wiping the eyes, rubbing can pull the natural lashes with the extension and interrupt your client’s hair growth cycle. 

If your client needs to wipe or rub their eyes, it is best to tell them to pat-dry instead and be very gentle.

Tips to help your eyelash extensions last longer with seasonal allergies

To be honest, there is no possible way to avoid seasonal allergies. As the season and weather change, our surroundings change as well causing the pollen to fly around leading to irritation. All we can do is to help ease and relieve its symptoms.

For lash lovers who are experiencing seasonal allergies and their symptoms, it is best to ease and relieve themselves of the symptoms first before going to your lash technician. Also, it helps to let your lash tech know that you are having seasonal allergies, this way they can take the necessary precautions. 

Here are 5 things you can do to help your eyelash extensions last longer even if you are experiencing seasonal allergies.

Take your choice of antihistamines

The morning before going to your scheduled appointment, take the antihistamine of your choice. This is very important to ease the symptoms you feel, this includes watery and itchy eyes which can negatively affect your eyelash extensions. It also helps prevent sneezing and buildup around the eyes making it easier for your lash tech during your appointment.

Avoid pulling or rubbing eyelash extensions

When your eyes begin to feel itchy, our instincts are to rub them. We are all guilty of this, at least once in our life. Eyelash extensions along with natural lashes are pulled and fall out because of rubbing.

You can avoid this from happening. When your eyes are feeling itchy, instead of rubbing, place a cool or warm damp cloth over your eyes until the itchy feeling subsides. Don’t over soak the cloth. Leave it for a few minutes and don’t leave it over your eyes. It will greatly help to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergies and make your lashes feel less irritated.

Keep tissues and cotton swabs on hand

Having tissues and cotton swabs on hand can be a true lifesaver when you are having seasonal allergies. Seriously!

When your eyes start to get itchy, use the cotton swabs to gently pat your eyelashes along your lash line. Using cotton swabs also helps prevent you from rubbing, pulling, or tangling your natural lashes and extensions. 

While bringing tissue all the time will help you gently tap dry your eyes when they get watery. 

Always clean eyelash extensions every day

Cleaning your natural lashes and eyelash extensions every day will greatly ease the irritation you are feeling. We assure you, you will feel so relieved afterward.

We highly recommend doing it twice a day. Once in the morning and at night. Use an oil-free and eyelash extensions friendly cleanser. Remember, be gentle when cleaning your lashes. 

Use mascara wands to brush out the itch

When your eyelids and eyes are starting to get itchy, you can use mascara wands to brush away the itch. It is also a great way to remove all the debris, dirt, and residue stuck in your eyelash extensions. Just remember to be gentle and do not tug or pull your lash extensions.

We experience many discomforts when we have seasonal allergies. But who says you can’t be gorgeous and have beautiful eyelash extensions when you are having allergies, right? You might need to exert more effort and time but at least, you have amazingly stunning lash extensions.

For all your lash supplies and client aftercare products, visit Cartel Lash for everything you need, all in one convenient place!

source https://cartellash.ca/blogs/news/how-seasonal-allergies-affects-your-eyelash-extensions

source https://cartellashca.blogspot.com/2022/03/how-seasonal-allergies-affects-your.html

How to Choose the Best Eyelash Glue for Sensitive Eyes

Eyelash extensions are one of the best discoveries of humankind. Your eyelashes will look amazingly beautiful 24/7 even in the mornings! No need to wear mascara just to take a selfie. When you have lash extensions, you are always selfie-ready!

But for those lash lovers with sensitive eyes, undergoing an eyelash extension application is not something they want to experience. Why? Because eyelash glue might cause eye irritation, allergic reaction, and eye tearing. Not a great experience!

However, there are ways you can make sure your clients don’t experience eye irritation, side effects, and any allergic reactions. Consider purchasing a sensitive lash adhesive. 

What to look for in eyelash glue for sensitive eyes

Everyone wants lovely and long lashes. Unfortunately, some clients that want to get extensions may experience allergies or sensitivities which can cause negative reactions. 

That is why you may want to purchase an eyelash glue specially formulated for clients with sensitive eyes. Here are the things you want to look for when choosing the best eyelash extension glue for sensitive clients. 

Check the ingredients of eyelash glue

The very first thing you need to do when looking for lash glue for sensitive clients is to check the ingredients. The most common cause of allergies in eyelash glue is cyanoacrylate, carbon black, latex, and formaldehyde.  

Latex is commonly used in lash adhesives to make them more elastic and provide a long-lasting bond. This helps greatly with lash retention. If you have a regular client with latex allergies, you need latex-free eyelash glue. There are not that many in the market but with the continuously growing popularity of lash extensions, many good-quality latex-free lash adhesives are being formulated. Make sure to go for a reputable brand with a good-quality lash adhesive.

Carbon black is one of the main ingredients for all colored eyelash glue, dark brown and black are the most common ones. Colored lash adhesives give a bolder look. Manufacturers use carbon black as a pigment. If your client is allergic to carbon black, use clear lash adhesives. They are colorless and blend well with natural lashes.

Formaldehyde can be found in almost everything including lash adhesives. Check the labels of your lash adhesive and look for formaldehyde. A reputable eyelash glue should not have a quantifiable amount of formaldehyde. It is good practice to steer clear of lash glues with this ingredient. 

Shelf life of eyelash glue

All products including lash adhesives have suggested shelf life and expiration dates. Check the manufacturer’s suggested shelf life before purchasing them. Remember, the shelf life indicated in the labels is based on the ideal humidity level (45% - 60%) and temperature (21°C - 26°C). So, this will depend on the conditions your storage is. 

You won’t be using these specific lash adhesives all the time. Do not overstock your lash adhesives because as time goes by, the ingredients will start to break down and lose their efficacy. It is best to just order one to two bottles at a time, but this depends on your clientele.

Climate for eyelash glue

At this point, you already know that lash glues are very sensitive to temperature and humidity. When looking for sensitive eyelash extension glue, check the advised temperature and humidity level indicated in the label. Make sure the climate and environment in your lash room will fit in the range indicated in the label. 

I understand that the temperature and humidity levels can change drastically during the day. It is best to have a humidifier (if the humidity is too low) or a dehumidifier (if the humidity is too high).

Price of eyelash glue

Remember, not all expensive products are good-quality products. That being said, don’t go to the cheapest one you can find. The price tag doesn’t always equate to quality. Do your research and check the quality of the products you want to buy. 

Think about your budget and whatever you choose, do not go over it. Stick to your budget!

Reviews for eyelash glue

ALWAYS CHECK THE PRODUCT REVIEWS! I can’t emphasize this enough. The internet is very accessible. Do proper and thorough research. Look at the reviews and check whether the lash adhesives are really “sensitive” and don’t contain ingredients that can cause irritation to your clients. 

Be patient enough to read the comments and reviews. These will greatly help you in making the decision. Some manufacturers tend to market their products as hypoallergenic but contain the ingredients you are trying to avoid.  

What causes sensitivity to eyelash glue

The most common cause of eyelash extension glue irritation is its ingredients such as cyanoacrylate, carbon black, latex, and formaldehyde. You can find substitutes for these ingredients except cyanoacrylate which is the main ingredient for ALL eyelash glue.

This might also come as a surprise but less than 1% of the world’s population is allergic to cyanoacrylate, which is the main ingredient for all lash glues. Unfortunately, all lash adhesives available in the market contain cyanoacrylate. If your client is one of these less than 1%, sadly they can’t or shouldn’t get lash extensions. 

Purchasing an eyelash glue with smaller quantities of cyanoacrylate might work for these clients but it is not always guaranteed. Not only is there a real possibility that your client may still experience a reaction but the application time is much longer, as these types of lash glue have longer drying times. 

But don’t lose hope! With the continuous advancement in technology, people might discover an ingredient to substitute cyanoacrylate in the near future. Finger’s crossed!

Always check the label when you are looking for lash adhesives for sensitive clients. This is the best way to make sure your clients leave your lash room happy and content with their eyelashes. 

For all your lash supply needs, find everything you need at Cartel Lash or 📞(604) 437-0011 speak to a product specialist.

source https://cartellash.ca/blogs/news/how-to-choose-the-best-eyelash-glue-for-sensitive-eyes

source https://cartellashca.blogspot.com/2022/03/how-to-choose-best-eyelash-glue-for.html

Lash Extensions 101: Humidifier vs. Dehumidifier - Which Do You Need

When it comes to lash extensions, the humidity in your lash room plays one of the most important roles in making sure the adhesive dries and cures properly. Most lash techs tend to overlook this part.

For instance, have you ever noticed your lash adhesive efficacy and drying time changes depending on the season and time of the year? This is because of the humidity levels. But how does it actually affect the lash glue?

Humidity on lash extensions and glue when it's too low or too high

Lash adhesives contain cyanoacrylate and other hardening agents. These ingredients dictate the speed of the drying and curing process of the lash glue. 

However, cyanoacrylate only cures and thoroughly dries when there’s moisture in the air. Otherwise, it will take a very long time before the lash adhesive sets. The humidity or moisture in the air works like an activator which starts the curing process of the eyelash adhesive.

The unbalanced moisture in the air can make or break the retention of your lash extensions.

What happens when the humidity is too low or too high? Here are two main things you should look out for when the humidity is too high or too low.

Speed of glue drying

When the humidity is too low, the curing speed of your lash adhesive will be too slow. On the other hand, if it is too high, the curing speed will be too fast. 

Both instances will make it hard for you, as the lash tech, to apply each lash extensions. If the lash glue dries slowly, you have to spend more time with every client. Because you have to make sure the extensions do not clump together by isolating the lashes for a longer period of time.

Meanwhile, if the lash glue dries quicker than you anticipate, it will result in poor attachments or weak bonds. Why? Because the lash adhesive will be partially cured when it bonds to the natural lash. Hence, it will not attach well and will fall off earlier than expected.

Retention of lash extensions

During a lash extension application, whether the room humidity is high or low, the result is the same, poor lash retention. In addition to retention and curing speed, if the humidity in your lash room is too low, the fumes coming from your lash glue will be more pronounced. Meaning the adverse reactions your client will feel will be increased. This might include eye tearing, burning sensations, inflammation, or even possibly an allergic reaction. 

On the other hand, if the humidity is too high, the adhesive cures quicker which might result in “adhesive beads” and could cause your set to look rough and clumpy. This is not visually pleasing. The lashes will look unnatural and uneven.

If the humidity is over 65%, the lash adhesive will cause blooming. This is when your adhesive undergoes shock polymerization when there is too much moisture in the air. You’ll know your adhesive is blooming when it goes from a liquid to a solid quickly and turns white. Oftentimes this happens around the nozzle of your adhesive bottle. 

What is the ideal room humidity for lash extensions?

To make sure your lash adhesive performs at its optimum level, your lash room should have a humidity range between 45% to 60%. I understand this might not be easy, especially during certain seasons, such as Winter, when moisture is lacking in the air.

As much as possible, make sure the humidity in your lash room is in between this range when applying lash extensions.

How to measure humidity in a room for lash extensions?

To measure the humidity levels in your lash room, you need a hygrometer. A hygrometer is a device that measures the amount of moisture in the air. 

Look for a hygrometer with multiple functions. This way you can get more without spending more. For example, BBLUV Hygrometer/Thermometer. This device can be used as a hygrometer, thermometer, and alarm clock with a large and easy-to-read LCD screen. You can easily monitor the temperature and humidity in your lash room, even from afar.

What is a humidifier for lash extensions?

A humidifier adds moisture to the air when it is too dry. Measure the humidity in your lash room, if it is too low, use a humidifier to increase the humidity. 

Ways to use a humidifier 

If you are using a portable nano mister, make sure you do not direct it or point it too close to your client’s eyelashes. Hold your nano mister at a reasonable height. At least 15 inches over your client’s eyelashes. Do not use it for more than 30 seconds (this depends on how much moisture your nano mister releases and is really dependent on the particular device you are using).

Do not over-saturate your client’s lashes

Using nano misters to balance the moisture in the air is a very convenient and easy way to help start the curing process of your lash adhesive. It is a humidifier but with a small and compact design making it ideal to use over your client’s face compared to large humidifiers during lash extensions treatment.

What is a dehumidifier for lash extensions

A dehumidifier is the opposite of a humidifier. It removes excess moisture in the air and makes the air drier. A dehumidifier works just like an air conditioner where warm and moist air is sucked into the device by a fan.

Ways to use a dehumidifier

Measure the humidity inside your lash room. If it is too high, turn on your dehumidifier. However, if you do not have a dehumidifier, you can use moist absorbers and place them around your work area. 

Best condition to use a dehumidifier

Use a dehumidifier if the humidity in your lash room is too high, meaning the air is too moist. If you are located in a place where the air is too moist and you don’t have a dehumidifier, you can look for lash adhesives more suitable to use in high humidity.

Which should you use for lash extensions?

Humidifiers and dehumidifiers have opposite effects but both are helpful during lash extension applications. In order to know which one you need, use a hygrometer to know the specific humidity level inside your space.

When the humidity level is too high, above 60%, the cyanoacrylate in your lash adhesive is over-activated, meaning it cures and dries quicker. In these instances, use a dehumidifier to lower the humidity levels. Or else, you will have a hard time keeping up with the fast drying speed of your lash glue.

Usually, winter is the season when the air is too dry. This is when you need to use a humidifier to add moisture to the air. When the humidity in your lash room is below 45%, the cyanoacrylate in your lash adhesive will not have enough moisture to kick start the curing process. You will need the help of a humidifier to add moisture. 

During winter when the air is too dry, you can use lash adhesives that work well during this season to compensate for the lash of moisture in the air.

Monitor the moisture in the air inside your lash room before you start the application. This way you can prevent any possible eye irritation and/or allergic reactions from happening to your client. In addition, your clients will have amazing-looking eyelashes longer because your sets will have the best retention. 

We understand the importance of using the right products for the retention of lash extensions. Visit Cartel Lash or call  📞(604) 437-0011 for quality lash supply products to help lashes last longer!

source https://cartellash.ca/blogs/news/humidifier-vs-dehumidifier-which-do-you-need

source https://cartellashca.blogspot.com/2022/03/lash-extensions-101-humidifier-vs.html

3 Ways to Increase Lash Retention in Your Environment

The main ingredient in all lash adhesives is cyanoacrylate which dictates the curing and drying speed of your adhesives. But in order for the curing to kick start, moisture needs to be present in the air, this is known as humidity. If the air is too dry, your lash glue will not dry as quickly as anticipated, resulting in poor lash retention.

Reputable manufacturers will tell you the ideal drying time specific to that particular lash glue. This characteristic is based on the ideal humidity, normally between 45% and 60%. The same is true for temperature, you want to ensure your space is in the ideal range for your glue, normally between 20*C - 21*C. If the room temperature and humidity in your lash room are not within the ideal range, it will affect the overall performance of your lash adhesive. Resulting in eyelash retention issues.

But don’t worry, you can easily help increase lash retention and make your clients happy at the same time! Here are 3 ways to help you get started.

1. Control your environment for lash retention

The environment you are working in when lashing will greatly affect the lash retention of your lash glue. Use a hygrometer with a thermometer feature to determine the temperature and humidity inside your space. A hygrometer is a device that measures the moisture in the air. This will help identify any humidity or temperature issues.

Humidifier for a low humidity environment

When there is not enough moisture in the air, your lash glue will not dry quickly. The result? Adjacent eyelash extensions might slip and stick together. Not only will your set not look good but this is a big no-no for many reasons. Including poor lash retention.

If extensions and natural lashes stick and clump together you can damage your client’s natural lashes. In addition, if you are working with volume fans, the slow drying speed will cause your fans to close and you will not be able to achieve a fluffy full set. 

Sometimes when the air is too dry, adverse reactions like eye tearing, inflammation, and allergies will increase. This can affect eyelash extension retention.

You can easily add moisture to the air by using a humidifier. Purchase a humidifier or nano mister to balance the humidity inside your lash room. Most humidifiers have built in settings to help regulate your space, adjusting the amount of moisture as needed.

Dehumidifier for a high humidity environment

When the humidity in your lash room is too high, the drying and curing speed of your lash adhesive will be faster than indicated on the label.

What happens to lash retention when the lash adhesive dries too quickly? The adhesive might be partially cured when you are applying eyelash extensions and won’t be attached fully. Resulting in weak bonds. 

Balance the humidity levels in your lash room by using a dehumidifier. If you don’t have a dehumidifier to use, try decreasing the temperature inside your lash room. It may help balance or counter the high humidity and give your lash adhesive more time to cure.

2. Change your lashing technique for more lash retention

Work with one small drop of glue at a time and change the glue bead regularly. A good rule of thumb is to replace the glue every 20-30 minutes. Remember, moisture in the air will cause your glue to dry, this principle is the same for your bead of glue, in that, the outer surface of your glue will begin the curing process. 

Also, I recommend picking up small amounts of lash glue on your lash extensions when classic lashing. Less is more, but you still want to be able to see the adhesive on the extension. There is a fine line between too much and not enough. Having said that, the more sets you complete, the easier it will be to differentiate what is too much or not enough.

When doing classic lashes, dip the bottom 2mm to 4mm of your eyelash extension into the adhesive and slowly pull it out. Slowly doing this will prevent beads of adhesive from accumulating at the bottom of the lash extension.

It is always good practice to isolate the natural lashes first, before dipping the extension in glue and applying. This way, you are ready to attach the lash extensions right after dipping in glue.

3. Find the right lash glue for your environment for lash retention

The changes in humidity and temperature in your location and environment can’t be avoided especially if it is because of the climate and seasons. If you can't fix the humidity issues I explained, you can look for the best lash glue for your particular region or space. 

Consider looking for a lash adhesive with a quick-drying time to compensate for the slow drying and curing process. On the other hand, if your location is high in humidity, your lash glue will dry faster. Look for lash adhesives with slow curing and drying time. This will provide more time for you to attach each lash extension without having to hurry too much.

Don’t forget to replace an open bottle of adhesive every 4-8 weeks (depending on the manufacturer's advice). Remember, all products have a shelf life. 

The humidity and temperature will affect lash retention of the lash adhesive negatively. So, always check the humidity and temperature in your lash room before you start applying eyelash extensions. This will make sure you always produce consistently good-looking sets every time.

For all your lash supplies, find everything you need at Cartel Lash or speak to a product specialist for recommendations!

source https://cartellash.ca/blogs/news/3-ways-to-increase-lash-retention-in-your-environment

source https://cartellashca.blogspot.com/2022/03/3-ways-to-increase-lash-retention-in.html

Can Clients Get Massages with Eyelash Extensions On?

After you attach the eyelash extensions to your client and everything looks amazing, talk about the importance of protecting and looking after their extensions. To prevent their eyelashes from prematurely falling out, they need to have the proper daily aftercare routine to make sure their eyelashes are clean and looking fresh and on point. 

In addition, they need to protect their eyelash extensions from getting squished. It is very important to not put any pressure on their eyelashes or they will not last as long. This will lead to premature shedding, weakened lash retention, or make their eyelashes point in various directions, making them look quite messy. 

This is why I highly recommend letting your clients know not to sleep on their stomachs and face. When they sleep on their stomach, too much pressure is pushed on their lashes and can cause lash extension damage. This is also one of the reasons why many lash techs do not recommend getting massages immediately after a fill to increase lash retention. 

But the thing is, clients can still get massages even after they have eyelash extensions. The only thing they should look for before getting a massage is the face cradle. When the massage bed has a face cradle, it is totally ok to get a massage. Their heads will rest in the face cradle comfortably and their eyelash extensions will not touch anything while they are lying down.

However, if the massage bed doesn’t have a face cradle, they can use a towel to elevate their head. So that their faces do not directly rest on the bed. 

Let us talk more about why it is bad for your clients to lie face down and how they can protect their eyelash extensions during a trip to the spa for a massage. Let’s get started!

Why is laying face down on eyelash extensions bad

Before you explain to your clients why laying face down is bad for their extensions, they should first understand how lash extensions are applied. Each eyelash extension is applied by hand using tweezers, lash adhesive, and other lash extension supplies. Every extension is meticulously and delicately placed using a small amount of adhesive.

After this, explain to your client that the weight of their head will put too much force on their eyelashes when they lie face down. This pressure on their eyelashes causes the lash extensions to shift in various angles and directions, especially if the lash glue is not thoroughly cured.

Continuous sleeping face down or lying face down will cause their extensions to fall off quicker than expected. In addition, it can cause their extension curls to change and relax resulting in the set looking unkempt and messy.

Steps to protecting eyelash extensions during a massage

There are ways to help your clients protect their lashes during a massage. So, no need to dishearten and discourage your clients from getting one. (Especially if they deserve it! Everyone needs a reward after working hard.) 

Here are 2 ways your client can protect their eyelash extensions during their well-deserved massage!

Position face on the face cradle to not press or rub onto eyelash extensions

There are many massage beds available on the market. They vary in size, mechanisms, and designs. But the common thing about all of them is they allow the body to easily move around and usually come with a face cradle. A face cradle is usually attached to the headpiece of the massage bed where the client will rest their heads while they are lying face down.

Tell your clients to make sure the face cradle is at an angle where the weight of their head is spread evenly across their forehead and face. It is very important that the face cradle or any fabric is not touching their eyelashes. 

They should be able to open and close their eyes without touching anything.

Use a towel and lay it around the face

They can use a towel to cradle their faces when the massage bed they will be using doesn’t have a face cradle. Get a long towel. The towel should be long enough to circle around their entire face and head. 

Roll the towel. It should be at least 2 to 3 inches thick. Place the towel around their face and tuck the excess under their chin. It should be thick enough so their face doesn't touch anything, including the bed or any fabric.

Make sure the weight and pressure of their heads are equally distributed on their forehead and face. They should be able to comfortably open and close their eyes.

Should you use a sleep mask to protect eyelash extensions during massage

I highly recommend not wearing a sleep mask during a massage. Why? Because sleep masks tend to compress their eyelashes. 

However, lash lovers can still wear sleep masks. Special sleep masks are on the market today specifically for eyelash extensions, these 3D masks are a great alternative for clients looking to get the benefits of wearing a sleep mask to avoid lash extension damage and increase lash retention. 

Depends if the socket area is big enough to prevent lashes from being crushed

If you really need to wear sleep masks, look for 3D eye masks. These masks are designed with a large gap between the wearer’s eyelashes and the mask itself, contouring the eye area. The fabric will not touch the eyelash extensions preserving the curl and state of the extensions. Some say these 3D masks look like small bras for your eyes!

3D eye masks can also be used when your client sleeps. The mask will make sure their eyelash extensions are not squished when they sleep on their sides and the fabric of their pillowcases will not stick to their lashes. So, you can tell your clients that they don’t have to replace all their pillowcases with silk ones. 3D sleep masks are great but might be a realistic option for many. 

Getting a well-deserved massage after a week of stressful work, meetings, chores, and activities is what all of us crave. It helps us relax and unwind. This is great for our mental and physical health. To top that off, getting massages is also great for our body. It helps improve the lymphatic system and our quality of life.

However, for lash artists, you need to let your clients know that they should protect their eyelashes when they are getting a massage. This will help make sure their eyelash extensions last as long as possible and continue looking beautiful. 

Everyone deserves lovely eyelashes and a relaxing massage. You just need to put in more effort to enjoy both!

We understand the importance of using the right products for the longevity of eyelash extensions. Visit Cartel Lash for quality products to help lash retention and lashes that last longer! 

source https://cartellash.ca/blogs/news/can-clients-get-massages-with-eyelash-extensions-on

source https://cartellashca.blogspot.com/2022/03/can-clients-get-massages-with-eyelash.html