Lash extensions have become a staple in many people's beauty routines, offering a convenient way to achieve fuller and longer lashes without the hassle of daily mascara application. However, one crucial aspect of getting lash extensions is the adhesive used to bond the extensions to your natural lashes. In recent years, UV lash glue has gained popularity due to its quick drying time and long-lasting hold. But amidst its growing popularity, concerns have been raised about its safety. In this blog post, we'll delve into the question: Is UV lash glue safe?
Understanding UV Lash Glue
UV lash glue, also known as cyanoacrylate adhesive, is a type of adhesive commonly used in the application of lash extensions. It is called UV glue because it requires ultraviolet (UV) light to cure or dry completely. This curing process typically takes only a few seconds, making UV lash glue a favourite among lash technicians for its efficiency.
Myths and Concerns
Despite its widespread use, UV lash glue has faced scrutiny regarding its safety. One common concern is the potential for allergic reactions or irritation. Cyanoacrylate, the main ingredient in UV lash glue, can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, resulting in symptoms such as redness, itching, or swelling around the eyes.
Moreover, there have been claims suggesting that the exposure to UV light during the curing process may pose risks to eye health. UV light, when absorbed by the eyes, can potentially lead to conditions like photokeratitis (similar to sunburn of the cornea) or even contribute to the development of cataracts or other eye disorders over time.
Debunking Misconceptions
While it's essential to acknowledge these concerns, it's also crucial to debunk misconceptions and provide a balanced perspective. Firstly, allergic reactions to lash glue are relatively rare, and most reputable lash technicians perform patch tests prior to application to identify any potential sensitivities. Even though UV glue is made from Cyanoacrylate, because it is cured completely in just a few seconds and contains no black carbon, another ingredient that's often in regular lash glue, 8 out of 10 allergy sufferers can use UV Lash Glue.
Regarding UV exposure, one common misconception is the belief that the UV light used to cure lash glue is strong enough to penetrate the skin and cause damage. However, it's important to note that the UV light emitted during the curing process on our UV lash lamps is a UV LED light focused and intended to cure the adhesive on the surface of the lashes. The intensity and duration of exposure are minimal and not sufficient to penetrate the skin or cause harm. Our UV LED lamp is only 395nm which has 6x less power than an average lamp with 36W for curing nails and 1000x less power than a tanning bed which has 5000 watts.
UV LED lights with the same working principle of ours have been used in dentistry to apply plastic fillings in teeth for over two decades. It is thought that the word UV automatically means there is damage to the skin or eyes and this is incorrect. Making sure you buy your products from a reputable brand like ours is essential as there are many products on the market (I've seen a few on ticktock) which literally burn the clients skin as the lamp is far too strong. So definitely do your research.
Lash technicians are recommended to use protective eye wear and clients should
close their eyes during the curing process to further minimise any potential risk. Additionally, the use of protective barriers such as under-eye pads or tape helps shield the delicate skin around the eyes from any accidental contact with the adhesive or UV light.
Safety Precautions
To ensure the safe application of lash extensions with UV lash glue, both lash technicians and clients should take certain precautions:
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Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before the full application to check for any allergic reactions.
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Protective Measures: Lash technicians should wear gloves and protective eyewear during application, while clients should keep their eyes closed to minimize exposure to UV light.
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Quality Products: Use high-quality, reputable brands of lash glue like ours to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.
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Proper Application: Follow proper application techniques and adhere to recommended curing times to ensure optimal bonding without overexposure to UV light. We have UV Lash Glue training days in Kent to help ensure you're using our products correctly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while concerns about the safety of UV lash glue exist, taking necessary precautions can help mitigate risks and ensure a safe and successful lash extension application. With proper adherence to safety guidelines and the use of high-quality products like ours, individuals can enjoy the benefits of longer, fuller lashes without compromising their eye health.
