Understanding Different Types of Lash Adhesives
There are a few types of supplies every lash extension artist needs in their kit—the lashes, the tweezers, and perhaps most importantly, the adhesive. You need adhesive to bond the lash extension to the natural lash, and the quality of the adhesive directly affects the longevity and retention of the extensions.
As you browse the various adhesives on the market, you’ll notice there are different types of lash adhesives. Which should you choose? Let’s go over the different types of lash adhesives available.
Latex Adhesive
Latex adhesives, as the name implies, contain latex. Latex is a type of natural rubber derived from the sap of rubber trees. It makes for a great adhesive because of its high viscosity and elasticity.
Despite its effectiveness, you should be very cautious with latex adhesive. Latex allergies are quite common, and if your client is allergic to latex, they may experience irritation, redness, and swelling around the eyes.
Not to mention, latex is water-soluble, which means lash extensions applied with latex adhesive will slowly break down as your client washes their face or sweats. This can lead to premature lash loss and an overall shorter lifespan of the extensions.
Cyanoacrylate Adhesive
Most lash extensions adhesives contain cyanoacrylate. Cyanoacrylate is a type of acrylic resin that creates a strong bond between the extension and the natural lash. It’s waterproof and dries quickly, making it a popular choice among lash artists.
However, it’s important to note that there are different types of cyanoacrylate, and not all of them make for good lash glue ingredients. For example, methyl cyanoacrylate is a toxic form of cyanoacrylate that can cause severe eye irritation.
You should choose an adhesive with ethyl, alkoxy, butyl, or methoxy cyanoacrylate. Ethyl cyanoacrylate is the strongest and fastest drying, but it also has a strong odor that may irritate some clients. Butyl and methoxy cyanoacrylate are gentler on the eyes but take longer to dry. Alkoxy cyanoacrylate is a good balance between strength and gentleness, but it’s more expensive.
Surgical-Grade Adhesive
Surgical-grade adhesive is the highest quality adhesive available on the market. It’s what medical professionals use in hospitals and clinics because it is safe, hypoallergenic, and long-lasting.
Surgical-grade adhesive is also the most expensive type of lash adhesive, which means it’s not necessary for everyday use unless you’re a professional working on clients with severe allergies or sensitive skin. For most lash artists, a good quality cyanoacrylate adhesive will suffice.
When deciding what type of lash adhesive to stock your salon with, consider each option’s cost, longevity, and possible side effects. You want to find the right balance between your budget, efficiency, and safety.
At Lash and Beauty Store, you’ll find products from the Borboleta professional line—this includes Borboleta’s Go-To Adhesive, which is petrochemical-free, latex-free, and formaldehyde-free. It also has a fast drying time and excellent retention, and comes in three viscosities. This adhesive is the perfect blend of quality, safety, and convenience for lash artists. Visit Lash and Beauty Store to get yours today!