Ever feel like your lash glue has a mind of its own? One minute it's drying super fast, the next it's taking forever. We've all been there! And while it's easy to blame the glue itself (we've all wondered if we accidentally grabbed a bad batch!), there's usually more to the story.

As experienced lash techs like yourself know, there are a lot of factors that can affect how your adhesive performs, from the environment in your salon to your application technique. So, let's dive in and uncover the secrets to perfectly behaved lash glue!

What Influences Adhesive Drying Time?

1. Adhesive Quality (It REALLY Matters)

Okay, let's talk about quality for a minute. Just like with your lash work, the quality of your glue makes a HUGE difference. We know this isn't always the easiest thing to judge, especially since we don't get to see how adhesives are made.

But here's a pro tip: Dr. Dan, a leading adhesive scientist from the University of Cambridge, has shared extremely useful advice on how to spot a high-quality adhesive. (Definitely check out his video!) Basically, those top-notch glues are made with the purest ingredients, which means they'll give you consistent performance every time. Trust us, investing in quality pays off big time with better drying speed, amazing retention, and happy clients!

2. Environmental Factors (Humidity is Key!)

Now, let's assume you've got a fantastic glue. Even the best adhesive can be affected by your salon's environment. Remember how lash adhesives react with moisture in the air to cure? (Check out our blog post on "How Adhesives Work" for a refresher!) That means humidity plays a major role:

• High humidity = faster drying. Too much moisture in the air can make your glue dry super quickly, which can lead to those dreaded sticky situations and poor lash placement.
• Low humidity = slower drying. On the flip side, if the air is too dry, your glue might take forever to dry, which can weaken the bond and affect retention.
• Temperature matters too! Higher temps speed up drying, while lower temps slow it down.

3. Adhesive Storage and Care (Treat Your Glue Right!)

You're probably already on top of this, but it's always worth a reminder:

• Shelf life is important. Adhesives don't last forever. Most have a shelf life of about 6 months unopened and 1 month after opening. Always check those labels!
• Freshness is key. Using expired glue can seriously mess with your drying time and even affect retention.

4. Application Technique (You're the Expert Here!)

This is where your skills as a lash tech really shine! You already know how much the amount of glue and how often you refresh your glue dot can affect drying time. But just in case, here's a quick recap:

• Too much glue = slower drying.
• Too little glue = poor retention.
• Refresh your glue dot every 20-30 minutes. (or even more often if needed!)

Best Practices for Perfect Lash Glue

• Choose the right adhesive: Think about your salon's environment. Faster-drying glues are great for low humidity or cold temps, while slower-drying ones are better for high humidity or warm temps. And if your glue is drying faster than it should, try a thicker adhesive – it might regulate better in your space.
• Prioritize quality: Invest in those high-quality adhesives with pure ingredients. Dr. Dan will back us up on this one!
• Monitor your environment: A hygrometer is your best friend! Use it to keep tabs on your humidity and temperature.
• Maintain good airflow: Make sure your room is well-ventilated, but don't go overboard with fans or AC, as that can dry out your glue too quickly.
• Test your adhesive: Before you start a full set, do a quick test application to see how your glue is behaving in your current conditions.
• Store adhesives properly: Follow those manufacturer's instructions! Improper storage can change the formula and make your glue act up.
• Never stop learning: Invest in training from a reputable lash academy or an experienced lash artist to keep your skills sharp. And hey, if you're struggling with retention, don't hesitate to reach out to a lash retention expert!

Final Thoughts

Mastering adhesive drying times is a game-changer for any lash tech. By understanding all the factors that can affect your glue and following these best practices, you'll be creating flawless, long-lasting lashes that will have your clients raving!