Lash Stickies: How to Prevent Them During Lash Extensions

A lash stickie happens when one lash accidentally becomes attached to a neighboring lash during an eyelash extension treatment. Poor isolation, too much adhesive, or glue that dries too slowly can all contribute to stickies.

1. Choose the Right Lash Glue

An adhesive that dries too slowly can increase the risk of stickies. Choose a lash extension glue with a drying speed that matches your application technique and working speed.

If you are using a slower-drying adhesive, keep your isolation tweezers in position for a few extra seconds to allow the bond to set properly.

2. Use the Right Amount of Glue

More glue does not mean better retention. Too much adhesive can slow drying and cause lashes to stick together.

Dip the extension into the middle of the glue dot and slowly slide it out. Aim for a thin coating covering about 2 mm from the base of the extension.

Avoid scooping or pulling the extension out too quickly, as these techniques can pick up too much adhesive.

3. Improve Your Isolation Technique

Good isolation is one of the most important ways to prevent stickies.

Work in layers: Separating the lashes by layers can make isolation easier and help you work more efficiently.

Use a guide lash technique: Instead of working continuously in one direction, use guide lashes to help maintain a clear working area and improve isolation.

4. Always Check Your Work

Leave a few minutes at the end of each treatment for a final stickie check.

Use your tweezers to gently check each lash from root to tip, separating any lashes that have become attached. Ask the client to blink and move her eyes in different directions to make sure there is no discomfort.

A thorough final check only takes a few minutes, but it can make a big difference to the comfort, retention, and safety of the finished set.

When it comes to lash extensions, client safety should always come first.