Eyelash Adhesive 101: Everything Lash Business Should Know

What is eyelash adhesive made of?

Most professional eyelash adhesives are cyanoacrylate-based, a fast-acting resin that’s known for its powerful bonding capabilities. Cyanoacrylate is the key ingredient that gives eyelash adhesive its quick-drying and long-lasting hold – it begins to polymerize (harden) within seconds when exposed to moisture in the air. This same compound is also found in medical-grade adhesives due to its strong adhesion and safety when properly formulated.

In addition to cyanoacrylate, eyelash adhesives often contain the following:

• PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate): This is a type of acrylic polymer that reinforces the structure of the eyelash adhesive. It enhances the flexibility and durability of the glue, helping it maintain a strong bond over time without becoming brittle. PMMA also contributes to the adhesive’s smooth consistency and long wear.
• Carbon Black: A black pigment added to give the glue its dark color, helping it blend seamlessly with lash extensions for a more natural finish. However, some clients may be sensitive or allergic to carbon black, which is why clear adhesives (without pigment) are an alternative option.

Note: Some low-quality eyelash adhesives may contain latex or formaldehyde – both of which are known allergens and potential irritants. Formaldehyde, in particular, is a toxic compound that should never be present in lash glue, even in trace amounts. Remember to always look for eyelash adhesives that are explicitly labeled formaldehyde-free and latex-free to protect both lash artists and clients!

Dry time: Why eyelash adhesive speed matters?

Eyelash adhesives come in different dry times, typically ranging from 0.5 to 3 seconds. Choosing the right one depends on the desired lashing speed and experience of the lash artist. 

• Fast drying adhesive (0.5 – 1s; 1 – 2s): For fast, advanced lash artists
• Standard drying adhesive (2 – 3s): Ideal for intermediate-level lash artists
• Slow drying adhesive (3 – 4s; 4 – 5s): Great for beginners who need a bit more time

Using an eyelash adhesive that dries too fast for the lashing speed can lead to poor attachment. Too slow, and you’d risk stickies or poor lash retention.

Humidity & temperature: the invisible factors

Your environment plays a huge role in adhesive performance. If it’s too humid, the eyelash adhesive may cure too fast. If the temperature is too dry, it might not cure at all. Using a hygrometer in your workspace helps you monitor the temperature conditions, and tools like a nano mister or humidifier can help balance the environment.

• The ideal humidity is between 45 – 60%
• Ideal temperature range is 20 – 24°C (68 – 75°F)

At CharmLash, we offer multiple eyelash adhesive options to suit different humidity levels and lash artist preferences – so you never have to settle for subpar results.

Understanding viscosity in lash adhesives

Viscosity refers to the thickness or flow of the eyelash adhesive, and it plays a big role in how the glue performs during application. In the lash industry, you’ll often see viscosity labeled as ultra-thin, thin, medium, or thick. Each viscosity type offers different advantages depending on your technique and speed:

• Ultra-thin or thin viscosity:
  These eyelash adhesives are very fluid and fast-flowing, which allows for quick pickup and minimal glue use. They typically have a fast drying time, making them ideal for advanced lash artists who work quickly and require precision. 
• Medium viscosity:
  These offer a balance between control and speed. They’re great for artists who want a bit more work time without sacrificing too much speed. Medium glues are versatile and commonly used for artists working in moderate humidity conditions.
• Thick viscosity:
  Thicker glues have a slower flow and slightly longer drying time, giving you more control over placement. This is ideal for newer lash artists,who need a bit of time to perfect fan placement.

Tip: Always match the viscosity and drying time of your eyelash adhesive to your lashing speed, room humidity, and technique. A mismatch can lead to poor retention, stickies, or visible clumping.

Can one lash adhesive work with all lash types?

The answer is yes! Professional eyelash adhesive can be used with any type of lash extension, as long as it’s paired with the correct technique and drying speed. Whether you’re working with classic lashes, volume fans, mega volume fans, premade fans, or individual black lashes, the same adhesives can be used. The key is choosing the right drying time and viscosity to suit the client’s method!

Common eyelash adhesive mistakes to avoid

1. Using too much glue: More is not better. Using too much glue will cause stickies and poor retention.
2. Skipping prep: Always cleanse and prime before attaching lash extension, otherwise natural lashes with sebum won’t bond well with lash extensions, which causes poor retention later on.
3. Working too slow for your lash adhesive: Lash adhesives with varied dry time are designed for different levels. Knowing the drying time of lash adhesive will prevent lash artists from having partial bonding and pop-offs issues.
4. Lash not isolating properly: this is the result of lash stickies, which causes client discomfort and lash damage.
5. Using expired lash adhesives: Avoid using expired lash adhesives at all cost. Knowing the shelf life of lash adhesive will save you a lot of time. Usually, lash adhesives have a shelf life of 6-9 months unopened when stored properly, and 4-6 weeks once opened. 

Choosing the right adhesive for your lash business

When selecting lash adhesives for your business, we’d recommend diversifying your collection with different dry time. Also, take into consideration the humidity and temperature of your areas as well as your targeted audience. At CharmLash, we produce a variety of high quality eyelash adhesives with different dry time for lash professionals of all levels and all working environments while still ensuring safety of our products. 

Final Thoughts

Eyelash adhesive is more than just glue, it’s the backbone of every lash set. When you understand how to choose, use, and store your adhesive correctly, you’ll see better retention, smoother applications, and happier clients.

At Charmlash, we’re committed to helping lash pros grow with reliable products, pro education, and wholesale solutions that support your success.

Need help picking the perfect adhesive? Check out our Lash Adhesive Collection or contact us – we’re here to help you stick with the best lash glues!