Finding the Best Glue for Lash Artists

Lash adhesive is the backbone of every flawless lash set. Without the right glue, even the most skilled lash artist can struggle with retention, application speed, and client satisfaction. Choosing the best adhesive means considering factors like drying time, humidity compatibility, and viscosity. If you’ve ever wondered why some adhesives work perfectly while others cause stickies, irritation, or poor retention, this guide is for you.

1. Understanding Lash Adhesive Ingredients & How They Work

Lash adhesives are primarily cyanoacrylate-based, which means they cure (or dry) in the presence of moisture. The speed of curing depends on the type of cyanoacrylate used and the room conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:

• Ethyl Cyanoacrylate: The most common base for lash glue, known for strong retention and fast drying.

• Alkoxy Cyanoacrylate: A low-fume alternative, often recommended for sensitive clients.

• PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate): Adds strength and flexibility to prevent brittleness.

• Carbon Black: Used for color, giving adhesives their deep black finish for seamless blending.

Knowing the ingredients helps you choose the best adhesive for different clients and scenarios.

2. How Humidity and Temperature Affect Lash Glue

Your work environment plays a significant role in how well your adhesive performs.

• Low humidity (below 40%) slows down curing, leading to retention issues and lashes popping off.

• High humidity (above 60%) causes glue to dry too fast, leading to poor attachment and weak bonds.

• Ideal range: Most adhesives perform best in 45-60% humidity with a temperature between 68-72°F (20-22°C).

To maintain optimal conditions:

✅ Use a hygrometer to track room humidity.

✅ Adjust with a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed.

✅ Choose adhesives formulated for your specific environment.

3. Drying Time: Matching the Glue to Your Speed

Every lash artist works at a different pace, and using the wrong drying speed can slow you down or lead to poor retention. Here’s how to match your adhesive to your lashing speed:

• 0.5-second dry time – Best for experienced lash artists who work quickly.

• 1-2 second dry time – Ideal for intermediate artists looking for balance.

• 3+ second dry time – Recommended for beginners who need more time to place lashes accurately.

Pro Tip: If your adhesive is drying too fast, use a jade stone or glue ring to dispense smaller amounts and refresh more frequently.

4. Choosing the Right Adhesive for Different Client Needs

Not all clients have the same retention or sensitivity levels. Here’s a guide to choosing the best glue based on client type:

• For clients with oily skin or active lifestyles: Opt for a fast-drying, strong retention adhesive that resists moisture and oil breakdown.

• For sensitive clients: A low-fume, flexible adhesive will minimize irritation.

• For volume vs. classic lashes: Volume fans need a thin-viscosity glue, while classic lashes can handle slightly thicker adhesives.

5. Maximizing Adhesive Retention with Proper Use

Even the best adhesive won’t perform well if not used correctly. Follow these retention-boosting best practices:

✅ Shake well before use: Adhesives contain multiple components that must be evenly mixed.

✅ Use a fresh glue dot every 15-20 minutes: Older glue becomes stringy and loses effectiveness.

✅ Avoid excessive adhesive: Using too much glue can lead to clumping and poor retention.

✅ Cure with a bonder: A bonder like MLA Megabonder speeds up curing and enhances retention.

✅ Educate clients on aftercare: Oil-based products, steam, and excessive touching weaken the bond.

Now that you know how adhesives work, let’s talk about some of the best options to suit your needs. 

Finding the perfect adhesive takes trial and error, but once you match your glue to your lashing style, you’ll notice better retention, faster application, and happier clients!

Need help picking the right lash glue? Explore Mega Lash Academy’s professional-grade adhesives and take your lashing game to the next level! ✨