How to Save Your Retention When the Heat Hits

If you’ve been struggling with retention lately, you’re not alone. As the weather heats up, your lash adhesive begins to behave differently. What worked in the spring might not work in the summer, and that’s because heat and humidity can throw your whole setup off balance.

Here’s what you need to know (and do) to keep your glue performing and your clients happy:

1. Know How Temperature & Humidity Affect Your Glue

Adhesive is chemistry, and in hot weather, that chemistry changes. Here’s the breakdown:

• High temps = faster curing. Your glue sets quicker, meaning less time to isolate and place.

• High humidity = even faster curing. Too fast, and the bond becomes weak or brittle.

• Low humidity = slower curing. You’ll notice lashes sliding around and poor attachment.

If your environment is outside the glue’s “happy zone,” it won’t bond the way it should, and your clients will notice.

2. Check Your Lash Room Conditions

Use a hygrometer to monitor your lash room daily. This is your new best friend.

• Ideal humidity: usually 40–60%, depending on the glue

• Ideal temperature: typically 68–72°F (20–22°C)

If you're outside those ranges, adjust:

• Use a dehumidifier or humidifier

• Turn on the AC or a fan to keep things consistent

• Don’t lash near a window, sunlight heats the space more than you think

3. Store Your Glue Like a Pro

Heat and moisture are glue killers. Here's how to protect your bottle:

• Store unopened glue in the fridge (inside an airtight container with silica packs)

• Once opened, never refrigerate, keep it in a cool, dry drawer or an airtight glue storage case

• Replace it every 4–6 weeks, sooner if it starts acting weird

• Always wipe the nozzle clean and squeeze out excess air before recapping

4. Work With Your Glue, Not Against It

If your glue is curing too fast in the heat:

• Use a slower-drying glue

• Work in smaller sections and isolate faster

• Don’t use a fan or nano mister right after application, you might shock-cure the glue

If it’s curing too slow:

• Use a faster-drying glue

• Lightly mist the room to increase humidity

• Use a bonder to help lock in the cure at the end

5. Educate Clients About Aftercare in Summer

Sweat, sunscreen, pool water, they all affect retention. Remind clients to:

• Avoid hot steam and saunas

• Clean lashes daily with lash-safe cleanser

• Blot sweat, don’t wipe or rub their eyes

Summer Lashing Requires Strategy

If your retention suddenly tanks when the seasons change, don’t panic, just adjust. Your glue isn’t bad, and you’re not doing anything wrong. You just need to stay a step ahead of the weather. Monitor your environment, prep your space, and stay flexible with your products. You’ve got this. 👏