Understanding Stringy Eyelash Extension Glue: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Deal With It
Eyelash extension glue is the MVP of your lash extension kit, but did you know that lash glue has an expiration date? Using expired eyelash glue can lead to a stringy, goopy mess that not only leads to frustration, but could also mess up your lash extension styles and stop your clients from booking in with you again! Let’s dive into the reasons your lash extension glue might go stringy, and what you can do to prevent it.
What’s Stringy Glue?
You might have come across terms like “goopy” or “stringy” when discussing lash glue. If your glue starts looking or acting like this, it’s a clear sign it’s past its prime. A stringy or gloopy consistency means it’s time for a fresh drop, or if it comes out of the bottle stringy, you’ll need a new bottle.
London Lash glues have a specific consistency depending on the type you choose, whether it’s for classic lashes, hybrid eyelash extensions, or mega volume lash extensions. Check out our Glue Chart to see how your glue should look. If your glue is coming out of the bottle stringy, there’s no reviving it—swap it for a new one.
Pro Tip: If you’re using a Jade Stone (which we highly recommend over glue rings), it’s normal for the glue to get a bit stringy after about 15 minutes. All you need to do is shake your bottle again and dispense a fresh drop, nice and far away from the drop that’s going stringy!
My Glue Was Fine Yesterday, What’s the Big Deal?
Even if your eyelash glue seemed fine yesterday, using it today could lead to issues if it's past its best. Stringy glue can make it difficult to control the amount you apply and may take longer to cure after you place your extensions. This can cause glue to touch neighboring lashes and create stickies, which can ruin the look of your lash extensions and damage your clients’ natural lashes. Expired lash glue often leads to poor retention, whether you’re doing classic eyelash extensions or volume eyelashes.
Risks for Clients
Expired lash adhesive isn’t just a problem for you; it can also be risky for your clients. As glue ages, its chemical composition can change, increasing the risk of sensitivity. To ensure yours and your clients’ safety, always use fresh glue and work in a well ventilated space.
How to Check if Your Glue is Fresh
Check the Date of Production (DOP) on your glue bottle. This date tells you when the glue was made. Ideally, use it within 6 months of this date, and after opening, switch to a new bottle every 4-6 weeks. Stick a piece of tape on the bottle with the date you opened it or set a calendar reminder to keep track of when you opened your glue, and when it’s time to swap it out.
How to Keep Your Glue Fresh
You can’t extend the life of your lash extension glue indefinitely, but you can prevent it from going bad too soon. Store unopened glue in the fridge if you want to, but never put opened bottles of glue there—condensation can form inside the bottle which will cure your glue before you even think about using it. Keep opened glue in an airtight container, away from heat and direct sunlight, ideally at a temperature between 18-22ºC.
A Glue Shaker can also be a game-changer. It mixes the glue quickly and ensures consistent results without you having to spend extra time shaking the bottle!
Lastly, we cannot stress enough how important it is that you have and refer to a hygrometer. A digital hygrometer will keep track of your room temperature and humidity levels so that you can stay one step ahead of stringy glue!
