Lash Products and Retention Glossary

The professional glue that bonds each extension to a natural lash. Most lash adhesives are cyanoacrylate based and made specifically for lashes. A good artist places it just above the skin so it never touches your eyelid. Allergy to lash adhesive can develop over time, so always mention any itching or swelling.

A cleanser applied to your natural lashes before the set begins. It removes oils and residue so the adhesive can bond well.

A product some artists apply after the set to help the adhesive cure and hold. You may also hear it called a sealant or super bonder, depending on the brand.

A professional gel, cream or liquid that softens the adhesive so extensions slide off without pulling your natural lashes. Removal should always be done by a trained artist.

Soft pads or medical tape placed under your eyes to hold your lower lashes out of the way. If a pad feels scratchy or stings, tell your artist so they can reposition it.

A small device that releases a very fine water mist over the lashes. Some artists use it at the end of an appointment to help the adhesive set.

The time it takes for the adhesive to fully set. Most adhesives need around 24 hours to fully cure, which is why you are asked to keep your lashes dry for the first day.

Lash adhesive is sensitive to the moisture and warmth in the room. Many artists monitor both, as they affect how quickly the adhesive dries and how well it holds.

A gentle cleanse of your lashes at the start of the appointment, often with a lash shampoo and soft brush. Clean lashes help the extensions bond and last.

Separating one natural lash from its neighbours with fine tweezers, so each extension is attached to a single lash. Careful isolation protects your natural lashes.

How long your extensions stay in place. Good retention depends on your natural lash cycle, the artist's technique, the products used and how you care for your set at home.

Natural lashes fall out every day as part of their growth cycle, and the extension attached to each one falls with it. Losing a few lashes a day is completely normal and is why infills are needed.

Every lash goes through a growing phase, a short transition phase and a resting phase before it sheds and is replaced. Lashes at different stages sit side by side, so a skilled artist chooses extensions to suit each one.

Two or more natural lashes accidentally glued together. Stickies can pull and cause discomfort or breakage as lashes grow, so a careful artist checks for them before you leave.

A reaction, usually to an ingredient in the adhesive, that can cause itching, redness or puffy eyelids. Contact your artist and a pharmacist or doctor if you notice these signs.

A gentle, oil free foam made for extensions. Cleansing every day or two keeps the lash line clean, helps your set last and supports healthy eyes.

A clean mascara style brush used to comb your extensions into place each morning.

Products with no oils, which you will be asked to use around the eyes. Oils can weaken the adhesive and shorten the life of your set.

When you want a break or a fresh start, book a professional removal. Pulling or picking at extensions can take your natural lashes with them.