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There are many benefits to getting eyelash extensions. For one, you can wake up with voluminous lashes, significantly reducing prep time on busy mornings.
However, not all eyelash extensions are equal. It can depend on the expertise of the lash technician and the quality of tools and products used for lash extensions.
Only the best eyelash extension glues in the market offer optimal results. You can find a lot of amazing choices when it comes to their bonding strength and retention power.
It’s also important to consider external factors such as temperature and humidity, which can affect the overall appearance of lash extensions.
We know it can be overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. Thankfully, we’ve got you covered!
Keep reading to discover the best eyelash extension glues for all application types.
Everything You Need to Know About Eyelash Extension Glue
Here are some things to consider when choosing the best eyelash extension glue.
What Is Eyelash Extension Glue Made Of?
1. Cyanoacrylate
Cyanoacrylate is a fast-acting and quick-drying adhesive. It undergoes polymerization in the presence of moisture/water, which allows it to create a strong bond with your natural eyelashes.
You only need a thin layer of this adhesive, and it can last for several weeks.
There are several types of cyanoacrylate:
- Ethyl cyanoacrylate: The most common type used in eyelash extension glues. It has the fastest drying time and longest retention period. However, it also releases the most fumes and odor, increasing the risk of potential irritation.
- Butyl cyanoacrylate: This type of cyanoacrylate will dry slower and has relatively weaker retention. The advantage is that it also releases fewer fumes and odors during curing.
- Ethoxyethyl cyanoacrylate: It has a soft finish that is gentler to the eyes but has the weakest retention and takes the longest to dry.
- Alkoxy cyanoacrylate: This type of cyanoacrylate is considered hypoallergenic and non-irritant, which makes it suitable for sensitive clients. However, this ingredient can be expensive and has lower adhesion and retention properties.
2. Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)
PMMA is the ingredient used to create sticky acrylic glass. With eyelash extension glues, it serves as a thickening agent.
It also bonds with cyanoacrylate, which results in even faster drying times and longer-lasting retention periods.
Generally, the higher the PMMA content, the longer eyelash extensions stay in place.
3. Hydroquinone
Eyelash extension glues will also have a small amount of hydroquinone.
Hydroquinone functions to prevent polymerization. This helps stabilize your eyelash extension glue and prevent it from hardening or drying out while not in use.
4. Carbon Black
Carbon black gives eyelash extension adhesives that deep dark color. This pigment is also used in various cosmetic products, such as eyeliners, mascaras, nail polishes, and eyeshadows.
For eyelash extensions, carbon black can help produce a more natural appearance. It allows the adhesive to blend seamlessly with natural lashes.
However, some people are allergic to carbon black. If you’re one of them, you can opt for a transparent eyelash extension glue, which does not contain carbon black.
Which Eyelash Glue Does Not Contain Formaldehyde?
Many people are concerned about having formaldehyde in their eyelash extension glue.
The truth is eyelash extension glues do not contain formaldehyde. However, formaldehyde is a by-product that is released during the curing process. This is what contributes to the fumes and odor.
However, the formaldehyde content is very low. It is not considered dangerous as long as exposure is short and limited.
Lash technicians can help reduce the risk of irritation by having proper ventilation and reducing exposure time.
Do Eyelash Extension Glues Contain Latex?
Yes, but not all. Some eyelash extension glues contain latex, which helps increase water resistance and oil resistance. This gives eyelash extensions more flexibility to reduce fallouts and enjoy longer retention periods.
However, those with latex sensitivity may experience allergic reactions. As an alternative, there are a lot of eyelash extension glues that do not contain latex.
Importance of Humidity and Temperature
So how long does eyelash extension glue take to dry?
Humidity and temperature will affect the performance of your eyelash extension glue.
So even if you’re using the best adhesive, it will be hard to achieve successful results if the conditions are not right.
Does Humidity Make Eyelash Extension Glue Dry Faster?
The adhesive properties of cyanoacrylate are only activated when there is moisture in the air. As such, the humidity will significantly affect drying times and retention periods.
Manufacturers have their own specifications when it comes to humidity level. However, most eyelash extension glues need around 40% to 70% humidity to perform well.
If the humidity is too high, the adhesive will dry much faster. You’ll have less time to correctly apply your eyelash extensions.
The glue also solidifies without bonding properly to the natural lashes, which increases the risk of lash fallout.
On the other hand, if the humidity is too low, the adhesive will take a long time to dry. This leads to clumps. As the adhesive thickens, it also becomes harder to achieve precise application.
Longer drying times also mean clients are exposed longer to fumes and odors, which can increase the risk of irritation.
As such, choosing an eyelash extension glue suitable for your specific climate is important. If you have a humidifier in the salon, set it to the proper humidity level for a more seamless application process.
Does Temperature Affect Eyelash Extension Glue?
Similar to humidity, temperature also affects your eyelash extension glue. Adhesives will generally dry faster in low temperatures. The colder it is, the faster it will take for the eyelash extension glue to dry.
Ideally, you’ll want to stay within a temperature range of 65°F to 80°F.
Consider Your Experience and Pace
When choosing an eyelash extension glue, you must also consider how experienced you are in applying eyelash extensions.
A beginner will most likely benefit from using a slower-drying adhesive. This can be more forgiving, and it allows you to work at a pace that you’re comfortable with.
Meanwhile, lash technicians with years of experience can work more quickly. They can benefit from a faster-drying adhesive, which allows them to finish the application while minimizing exposure and irritation for the client.
After considering all these factors, you’ll have a better idea of which eyelash extension glue will be suitable for your business.
13 Best Eyelash Extension Glues For Pro And DIY Applications
What is the best glue for eyelashes extensions, you ask? We picked 13 best glues for lash extensions for professional use, for sensitive eyes, and for self-application!
Best Professional Eyelash Extension Glue
This eyelash extension glue delivers a powerful hold while keeping fumes and irritation low.
Key benefits: Ultra-hold and instant-dry formula; waterproof; black adhesive; vegan and cruelty-free
Features:
- Quick drying time of one to two seconds
- Retention lasts up to eight weeks
- Medium viscosity for stable drying and retention
Advanced lash artists will appreciate the staying power of the Lyon Lash Eyelash Extension Glue.
What makes this one of the best retention eyelash extension glues? It provides maximum bonding strength without sacrificing the comfort of your lash clients.
The advanced formula helps minimize potential fumes and irritation. It does not contain petrochemicals, latex, and formaldehyde.
For best results, make sure that the temperature is between 68°F to 77°F and keep humidity levels at 45% to 70%. This eyelash extension glue is designed for professional use only.
This eyelash extension glue allows professionals to work quickly while delivering quality service.
Key benefits: Extra-strong formula and fast-drying time; waterproof; extra black adhesive
Features:
- Fast drying time of one to two seconds
- Retention can last six to seven weeks
- High flexibility helps prevent fall outs
This is a great option for creating beautiful, natural-looking eyelash extensions.
Applying lash extensions is tedious and detailed work. But with the Venus Visage Eyelash Extension Glue, you can still deliver quick and efficient client service.
It has strong bonding strength, which helps deliver long-lasting results. It uses safe and premium ingredients as one of the best professional eyelash extension glues.
The formula is latex- and formaldehyde-free, but expect to deal with low fumes. This is ideal for lash artists working in temperatures of 65°F to 80°F and 50% to 70% humidity.
This highly rated adhesive creates a powerful bond between eyelash extensions and natural lashes.
Key benefits: Fast-curing and long-lasting formula; black lash adhesive; no formaldehyde and latex
Features:
- Dries out in one to two seconds
- Incredible retention for up to eight weeks
- Thin viscosity allows you to work efficiently
For the best performance, check out the Forabeli Pro Care Eyelash Extension Glue.
If you have lash clients who are always on the go, the Forabeli Pro Care Eyelash Extension Glue is a perfect choice.
It has incredible retention and flexibility, which makes it suitable for those with an active lifestyle.
The fast-drying and extra-strong formula has been certified by lash technicians. With advanced skills, you can minimize potential fume exposure to clients.
For optimal results, ensure that temperature is between 70°F to 74°F and humidity is between 40% to 70%.
The Stacy Lash Crystal Clear adhesive is one of the gentler and more versatile formulations in the market.
Key benefits: Strong hold, high retention, and low fumes; high flexibility; transparent adhesive; cruelty-free; ISO quality certified
Features:
- Fast drying time at one to two seconds
- Strong hold that lasts up to eight weeks
- Ultra-thin consistency for precise lash application
This is one of the best eyelash extension glues for colored lashes.
This professional eyelash extension glue has all the features you’d want and expect — fast drying time, incredible retention, low fumes, and high flexibility.
In addition, the crystal clear adhesive can also be used for both black and colored lash extensions. The lack of carbon black in the formula makes it gentler for clients.
The Stacy Lash Crystal Clear Eyelash Extension Glue works well in a wide range of humidity conditions (50% to 70%) and at temperatures of 70°F to 75°F.
When it comes to bonding power, it doesn’t get any better than this eyelash adhesive.
Key benefits: Extra-strong and long-lasting formula; quick-dry black adhesive; high flexibility;
Features:
- Quick drying time of one to two seconds
- Can last for seven to eight weeks
- Very low viscosity allows for easy lash application
This formulation has been tested and approved by professional lash stylists.
The Lonris Volume Advanced Ultra+ Premium Eyelash Extension Glue makes the lash application process as easy as possible. You can rely on the extra-strong bonding power to deliver long-lasting results.
Additionally, the thin consistency and quick-dry formula allow you to work quickly and efficiently. It is also suitable for working in 65°F to 80°F temperatures and 50% to 70% humidity levels for the best possible results.
This semi-permanent adhesive helps create voluminous lashes that still look natural.
Key benefits: Superb retention, fast-drying formula; waterproof; glossy black adhesive; ISO 9001 and 14001 certified
Features:
- Fast drying time at one to two seconds
- Retention period of six to seven weeks
- Low viscosity to prevent clumping during application
For seamless lash application, consider the Beau Lashes Sky Glue eyelash extension glue.
When using the Beau Lashes Sky Glue, one of the best eyelash extensions adhesives, your clients will undoubtedly love the natural-looking results.
It has superb retention that helps prevent lash fallouts after treatment and up to seven weeks later.
The formula is designed for seamless application. Even beginner lash technicians will appreciate how easy it is to use.
With more economical packaging, this eyelash extension glue also provides great value to your business.
When it comes to drying time, nothing beats the Lyon Lash SpeedMax Eyelash Extension Glue.
Key benefits: Super-fast drying formula; low-fume and non-irritative; vegan and cruelty-free
Features:
- Unrivaled drying time at 0.5 to 1 second
- Long retention period of up to eight weeks
- Very thin viscosity for faster curing period
With this eyelash extension glue, you can create ultra-bold lashes in record time.
The Lyon Lash SpeedMax Eyelash Extension Glue is a great addition to your lash extension arsenal.
This is undeniably one of the best lash glue for lash extensions. Aside from a maximum-strength formula, you’re getting an unprecedented drying time of less than a second.
This increased efficiency won’t come at the cost of your clients, though. The adhesive has been formulated to be low-fume and non-irritative.
They’ll have a comfortable experience as you create voluminous lashes in record time.
This eyelash extension glue creates a strong bond but remains gentle on natural lashes.
Key benefits: Super strong bond; black adhesive; vegan and cruelty-free; no latex and formaldehyde
Features:
- Quick drying time of one to two seconds
- Can last up to eight weeks
- Thin viscosity delivers just the right amount of product
With this high-quality adhesive, lash extensions stick to natural lashes like a magnet.
The Miya Lash Ultra Bond Eyelash Extension Glue delivers a super strong bond. Your clients will keep coming back due to the high-quality results.
This adhesive has been formulated to have optimal drying time. It’s not too fast that you’ll compromise your work, but not too slow that you’ll have to deal with stickies or clumps.
You can also use this product for different application techniques, including classic, mega volume, and Japanese feathering lash extensions.
For optimal results, it’s best to set the salon temperature at 74°F to 82°F and the humidity range at 50% to 70%.
Best Eyelash Extension Glue for Sensitive Eyes
You won’t have to deal with fumes and irritation with the Neenoxtub Sensitive Eyelash Extension Glue.
Key benefits: Ultra-hold formula without strong fumes and odor; ophthalmologist-tested; black waterproof adhesive; cruelty-free
Features:
- Drying time at three to five seconds to minimize irritation
- Retention period of five to seven weeks
- Thin viscosity and high flexibility to increase comfort
As a hypoallergenic eyelash extension glue, you still get amazing strength and retention power.
This is one of the best eyelash extension glues to use when working with clients with sensitive eyes. It has an updated formula that reduces fumes and odor, which in turn, reduces potential irritation.
Nonetheless, this product still delivers extra-strong hold and up to seven weeks of retention. You can create voluminous lashes that won’t budge — until you need them to.
Due to the gentler formulation, this eyelash extension glue is suitable for self-application or at-home use.
This eyelash extension glue has a lightweight formula that’s gentle on sensitive eyes.
Key benefits: Low-fume and low-odor formula; formulated for sensitive eyes; cruelty-free and ISO quality certified
Features:
- Drying time at five to six seconds
- Can last up to five weeks
- Helps increase comfort with medium thin consistency
The adhesive allows you to cater to more clients with sensitive skin or allergies.
Say goodbye to itchy, red, and swollen eyes during lash extension appointments.
This Stacy Lash Eyelash Extension Glue has been formulated to reduce irritation or allergic reactions from clients with sensitive eyes. They’ll be at ease knowing this has a low-fume and low-odor formula.
With sensitive formulations, having relatively longer drying times and slightly thicker consistencies is normal. However, this product still delivers a strong hold for long-lasting lashes.
It’s also a suitable choice for beginner or novice lash technicians. Make sure to set salon temperature at 70°F to 75°F and humidity at 50% to 70% for optimal results.
With the Milklear Eyelash Extension Glue for Sensitive Eyes, there is a very low chance of irritation.
Key benefits: Extremely low fumes; strong bonding power; black adhesive; no formaldehyde, latex, and sulfate
Features:
- Drying time at two to three seconds
- Retention period for up to two weeks
- No irritating odor that can cause irritation
Avoid adverse reactions from clients with this gentle eyelash extension glue.
This is another great eyelash extension glue for sensitive eyes. The formula has extremely low fumes and odor, which minimizes potential irritation.
Given the two-week retention period, the Milklear Eyelash Extension Glue is also a good choice for clients who want to try out lash extensions but are not yet ready to commit.
The formula has strong bonding power, allowing you to create volume lashes.
This product is suitable for novice technicians and self-application. You can also use it for individual or cluster lashes.
Best Eyelash Extension Glue for Self-Application
This eyelash extension glue is ideal for maintaining your lashes in between appointments.
Key benefits: Gentle and low-irritating formula; odorless and waterproof; cruelty-free
Features:
- Drying time of three to five seconds
- Can last two to three weeks
- High flexibility helps lashes stay intact
You can also use this adhesive for DIY eyelash extensions.
Nothing beats eyelash extensions from an experienced technician. But if you want something to fill in the gaps in between sessions, consider the LashView Individual Lash Glue.
This product is suitable for self-application and for sensitive eyes. You’ll be able to reduce potential irritation due to its odorless and low-irritating formula.
Nonetheless, this eyelash extension glue still has strong bonding power. Your lash extensions will stay secure and flexible. They won’t fall off even as you bathe, sleep, or work out!
Expect reliable performance from this eyelash extension glue from Ardell.
Key benefits: Fast-dying and budge-proof formula; low fumes; clear adhesive; waterproof and latex-free
Features:
- Delivers a secure hold for seamless application
- Can last up to two weeks of wear
- Non-irritating and gentle for sensitive eyes
This Ardell lash adhesive gives you the freedom to create custom lashes that complement your eye shape.
Ardell is a brand known for reliable performance in the realm of eyelashes. The LashTitle Lash Adhesive for Individual Lashes is no different.
It delivers a secure hold, which allows lash extensions to blend seamlessly with natural lashes.
The adhesive dries up clear, which makes it suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether you’re going for simple lashes for work or full volume for a night out.
The fast-drying formula allows you to achieve these looks in a flash.
Choosing the Best Eyelash Extension Glue for Your Needs
There are a lot of eyelash extension glues on the market. However, not all of them can produce your desired results. It depends on several factors, including bonding strength, retention power, consistency, and flexibility.
As a professional lash technician, it’s important to consider your clients’ needs. A fast-drying formula enables you to work quickly, but you’ll have to deal with moderate fumes and an increased risk of irritation.
For self-application or sensitive eyes, the best choice will be a low-fume and low-odor formula that reduces potential irritation or allergies.
It’s all about weighing your options to create your desired results.
Thankfully, we’ve identified the best options for a range of lash applications. Whether you’re an expert lash technician or a beginner, you’re sure to find the best eyelash glue for extensions.
