Protecting Yourself & Clients: The Science of Cyanoacrylate Allergies
Spring is in the air! And unfortunately, so is pollen. April is the peak season for "Red Eye" complaints. Clients wake up with puffy, itchy eyes and immediately blame their lash extensions.
As professionals, we need to know the difference between a True Allergy and Environmental Irritation. At The Blooming Rose, we see a spike in sensitivity every spring, but we rarely have to remove a set. Here is how we manage it.
The Science: What Causes the Reaction?
Most reactions aren't caused by the lashes themselves, but by the fumes of the curing adhesive (Cyanoacrylate).
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True Allergy: The body develops antibodies to the chemical. The eyelids will be swollen, red, and flaky along the lash line. This client sadly cannot have lashes anymore.
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Irritation (The Common Culprit): The fumes settle on the skin, or seasonal allergies make the eyes sensitive, and the adhesive vapor aggravates it. This is manageable!
The "Sensitive Client" Protocol
If a client complains of stinging or mild itching during the appointment, don't ignore it. Here is the protocol we use in real life:
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Force Cure the Fumes: During the lash appointment, be sure to mist multiple times thoroughly and fan as needed for your client's comfort.
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Instantly Cure Your Adhesive:
What began as a specialized solution for sensitive clients has quickly become the ultimate finisher for every lash service.
How to Use:
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Thoroughly fan dry the lash extensions.
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Apply Luxom Pro Bond and allow it to air dry for one full minute.
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Finish by fanning again as needed to ensure maximum client comfort.
3. The Wash Rule: We instruct clients to wash their lashes immediately after getting home if they have been outside in the pollen. Pollen sticks to extensions like velcro!
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Protecting Yourself
Don't forget—you are breathing these fumes all day, too. If you are feeling congested or getting headaches, it might be your glue. Ensure your studio is well-ventilated and keep your adhesive fresh. Old adhesive releases more fumes as it degrades.
Stock Up on Safety Ensure you have a Nano Mister and a bottle of Luxom Pro Bond in your cart before allergy season hits its peak.