You might have heard your lash technician talking about curing or giving you specific advice to avoid water so your extension adhesive can cure properly. But, what exactly is curing, and how does it affect your extensions? Keep reading to find out more about this important process so you can ensure that your extensions last as long as possible.
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You probably know by now that eyelash extensions are applied on to your natural eyelashes. When extensions are glued to your natural lashes, a bond is created.
When we talk about curing, we are referring to the process of the lash adhesive drying all through to the center. The curing process happens by absorbing moisture from the surrounding air, and it’s worth noting that this is a slow process that takes approximately 24 to 36 hours. Curing can’t be rushed as the lash adhesive cures slowly, absorbing little but adequate moisture.
This is exactly why we advise our customers never to go swimming or allow any water on their extensions right away. If too much water came into contact with the lash adhesive, it would affect the curing process.
When it comes to curing, humidity plays a significant role. Lash adhesive is very sensitive to the humidity of the air. Quite simply, when there is high humidity, the adhesive will cure faster. This is due to the air having more moisture.
Bear in mind that curing works by absorbing moisture from the air, so if there’s high humidity, it will take a shorter time to cure. While curing faster might sound like a good thing, it is not. Curing too fast will lead to poor extension attachment, leading to a quicker fall out.
Conversely, when there’s low humidity, the lash adhesive will cure really slowly. Just imagine the adhesive yearning for but not getting enough moisture from the air.
It’s vital to understand that both drying and curing aren’t the same. In fact, curing can be seen as a level further than drying. Drying is simply when the exterior surface of the adhesive is dried and hardened, whereas curing is about drying and hardening all the way through to the center.
Once you leave our Studio, you must avoid any moisture in your extensions for at least 24 hours. Avoid long, hot showers or baths, and definitely don’t go swimming. Even if you manage to keep your lashes dry, the humidity will still compromise the curing process.
If the adhesive doesn’t get the opportunity to cure properly, your extensions may fall out prematurely. If you want your extensions (and investment) to last longer, try to stay in a cool and dry environment.
Ultimately, it is your responsibility to protect the curing of the glue by avoiding excessive heat, humidity, and touching and brushing your lashes at least in the immediate 24 hours after your appointment.
Any well-trained and reputable lash technician has to understand how curing works and pass that knowledge on to our clients. On our part, it’s vital for us to control the humidity level in our Studio so we can achieve optimal curing and ensure the best result for our clients. At the same time, it’s crucial for clients to also understand the curing process and stay away from excessive moisture and humidity after the appointment. Together, we’ll be able to achieve longer-lasting lash extensions.