Cyanoacrylate is an acrylic resin that polymerizes into a solid in the presence of water. The main ingredient in all eyelash extension adhesives is cyanoacrylate. This ingredient is found in any instant bonding adhesives such as super glues and nail glue. Cyanoacrylate is the ingredient that provides the instant cling. An adhesive containing this ingredient does not “dry”, it polymerizes into an inert plastic in the presence of water.

The adhesive requires water to form the initial bond and turn from a liquid into a solid. It requires a specific amount of water in the air (humidity) to form the initial bond. Depending on the formulation of the adhesive, the optimal humidity range will vary. It is very important to always work within the optimal humidity range to ensure that the adhesive works as specified. If an adhesive is used in the incorrect humidity range, it will not be able to form the bond properly (no instant cling and/or poor bond strength), which can lead to application and retention issues. To measure your humidity, use a hygrometer.

Temperature can change the consistency of the adhesive – low temperature will cause the adhesive to seem thicker and high temperature will cause the adhesive to seem more liquid. Room temperature will ensure that the adhesive is in the perfect consistency = all ingredients in the adhesive are mixed evenly.

If the adhesive is used outside of the optimal ranges, everything about it changes as well! 

If the humidity is too low, it will take longer for the adhesive to form the initial bond, as it takes longer for the cyanoacrylate to react with the low water content in the air. If the humidity is too high, the cyanoacrylate will react too fast, as it reacts quickly with the high water content in the air.

It may be difficult to achieve the perfect humidity and temperature in the working environment. Different tools can be used to adjust to the perfect environment! 

We receive our adhesive shipments every 3-4 weeks to ensure that our Artist's receive the freshest adhesives. Our adhesives are shipped in a air tight bag with a Silica Gel Packets which absorb moisture - this prevents moisture from spoiling your adhesive. We recommend keeping your adhesive in this package until you're ready to use it. Store your adhesive package at room temperature and away from sunlight and heat.

To minimize the amount of air and moisture that gets into the bottle when dispensing, we recommend tilting your adhesive bottle upside down and letting the drop come out slowly. Squeezing the bottle will cause air and moisture to get into the bottle. You'll want to throw your adhesive away once you notice the consistency changing - stringy, goopy and turning grey (if using a black adhesive).