5 Reasons Why - It’s Not Always the Glues Fault!
The Truth About Lash Retention – It’s Not Always the Glue’s Fault!
When lashes don’t last, the adhesive often gets the blame. But the truth is, retention problems are rarely caused by the glue itself. Most issues come from technique, prep, the environment, or aftercare. Let’s break it down and talk about how to fix each one so you can start getting flawless, long-lasting results.
Application Technique
Your application technique is the backbone of great retention. If the extension isn’t bonded securely, no adhesive can save it. Using too little glue creates a weak bond, while using too much can lead to clumps or heavy lashes that pop off. The sweet spot is dipping 1–2mm of the extension into the adhesive and ensuring it’s placed flush with the natural lash for maximum surface contact. Perfect isolation is key here – clean, confident placement will always win.
Temperature & Humidity
Adhesive is fussy about its environment. If your room is too humid, the glue will cure too quickly, causing weak attachment. Too dry, and it won’t cure fast enough, leading to sliding or poor bonding. The ideal conditions are 40–60% humidity and a temperature of around 20–24°C. A small investment in a hygrometer will help you monitor your lash room daily, and using a humidifier or dehumidifier can help you keep things under control.
Lash Prep
Dirty lashes are the number one enemy of retention. Oils, makeup residue, and natural build-up all break down adhesive bonds. If you’re not prepping the lashes properly, your sets won’t stand a chance. Always start with a thorough cleanse using an oil-free lash shampoo, followed by a rinse and a complete dry. If you’re dealing with oily lashes or stubborn residue, a primer can give you a cleaner surface for the adhesive to grip.
Client Aftercare
Even with perfect prep and application, retention can fail if your client isn’t looking after their lashes. Oil-based skincare, face-down sleeping, or avoiding lash cleanses can all sabotage your hard work. Educating your clients is essential. Teach them the ‘oil = enemy’ rule and show them how to clean their lashes daily with foam cleanser and a soft brush. A quick aftercare demo and some clear instructions go a long way.
Lash Growth Cycle
Sometimes, lash loss is just part of the natural growth cycle. Every lash has its own timeline, and some shedding is normal – it doesn’t mean your retention is bad. Explain this to your clients so they know what to expect, and encourage them to book infills every 2–3 weeks to keep their sets looking full.
Want to Master Retention for Good?
Retention issues don’t have to be a guessing game. If you want to stop blaming the glue and start working smarter, my Online Adhesive Masterclass is exactly what you need.
Inside, you’ll learn how adhesive really works (no myths, just facts), the exact steps to create long-lasting bonds, and pro-level troubleshooting tips to fix retention problems fast. Why wouldn’t you want to know about the one thing that holds it all together?