Even the most experienced lash technician experiences bonding issues from time to time. It’s usually not the fault of the technician, the technique, or the adhesive. The culprit behind a bonding issue is usually the client’s natural lash.
Because bonding issues are commonplace, dealing with them quickly and effectively is the key to a great-looking set of lashes and a satisfied client.
Tricky Lashes
Lash adhesive is quite powerful, drying in mere seconds. (Remember, drying is not the same as curing, which takes 48 hours!) However, despite its sticking power, some lashes just won’t stay stuck. Why? Sometimes it’s the natural lash. The following lash types can present a challenge when trying to achieve a 100% bond:
Very curly lashes
Very straight lashes
Older lashes
Wispy lashes
When a lash is not bonded, durability, life, and longevity are all compromised. When the bond is weak, lashes will fall out sooner, resulting in a less than desirable look – and even the potential loss of a client. You’ll know you’re having trouble when despite your best efforts and trying all your best tricks, that extension just won’t stick.
Getting Them to Stick
The key to getting a lash that won’t stick to stick is to address it right away. Don’t ignore it. Don’t skip it. Don’t move to the next lash or the other eye and “go back to it later.” None of these methods result in the best result for the client. Plus, fixing a bonding issue is super easy and quick! You just need to know what to do.
Start by grabbing a wooden applicator
Add a small amount of adhesive to the applicator and smooth that right onto the lash extension
Using tweezers, squeeze the extension to the base on the natural lash
Hold for a few seconds to let the glue dry, and release
That didn’t work? Don’t worry. Time for plan B.
Using tweezers, drag the bottom third of the lash through the adhesive again
Try affixing the lash once more
Only do this once – continuing to add glue will result in a clumpy look
That did work either? Don’t sweat it!
Discard the lash – two tries is the maximum
Grab another lash and try again, being very careful to achieve the bond you desire
Try holding the base of the natural lash and the extension with your tweezers for a couple of seconds on your first attempt to ensure success
What did it cost you to fix the issue? A lash or two and a bit of extra glue. What does it cost you to ignore it? Your reputation, a client, referrals, and the potential for positive word-of-mouth marketing. Don’t pay this price! Fix your bonding issue and keep going.
Add a Little Something-Something to Help the Bond Stay Put
We all have that one client with the notoriously hard-to-lash lashes. This client has you addressing bonding issues like crazy. For this client, consider using a super-bonder to help the lashes stick.
Super bonder works by blocking glue fumes and increasing elasticity at the adhesive bonding points. While absolutely nothing can keep your client’s extensions in place forever, super bonder is known to add some longevity to the length of time the extension sticks around before it naturally grows out and falls off. While super-bonder is quite effective, there are a few drawbacks to be aware of:
Expert application is a MUST – any skin contact or eye contact will result in extreme discomfort and possible injury
Does not guarantee lashes will last longer, especially in the absence of proper client aftercare
Higher price point than sealant
Do you want to learn more about using super bonders? InfinitiLash can help! We have training that covers this, and so much more!
InfinitiLash – Where Beauty Meets the Eye
Contact us to discuss our training programs, or to ask questions about our products, services, or the InfinitiLash Method. Visit us on the web 247 at infinitilash.com