We’ve all been there. You’re getting ready for a night out, your makeup is flawless, and the last step is applying your favorite false eyelashes. You carefully apply the glue, and then the waiting game begins. It can feel like an eternity waiting for the glue to get to that perfect tacky state. If you apply it too soon, the lash strip slides around your eyelid. Too late, and it won’t stick at all. It’s a frustrating dance that can make or break your look. But what if we told you there are ways to speed up the process without compromising the safety or longevity of your lashes?
Before we dive into the tips, it’s important to remember that safety is paramount when dealing with products near your eyes. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that lash extensions and adhesives should be applied by an experienced aesthetician in a sanitary setting, with chemicals that are safe for your skin . While this advice is for professional extensions, the principle of using safe, high-quality products applies to at-home lash application as well. Understanding how your lash glue works is the first step to a faster, more effective application. In this post, we’ll explore five expert tips to help your eyelash glue dry faster, so you can get on with your day with beautiful, securely attached lashes.
1. Understand Your Environment: The Role of Humidity and Temperature
The secret to your lash glue’s performance lies in its main ingredient: cyanoacrylate. This is the same family of adhesives found in products like super glue, but formulated to be safe for use around the eyes. Cyanoacrylate cures, or hardens, in the presence of moisture. This means the humidity in the air is actually what activates your lash glue. The ideal humidity for most lash adhesives is between 45% and 60% .
Here’s how your environment can affect drying time:
•High Humidity (Above 60%): Too much moisture in the air can cause the glue to cure too quickly on the outside, without properly bonding to the natural lash. This can lead to a weak bond and poor retention. Your glue drop might also dry out faster than you can use it.
•Low Humidity (Below 45%): Not enough moisture in the air will slow down the curing process, leaving you waiting longer for the glue to become tacky. This is often the culprit when your glue seems to take forever to dry.
To manage your environment, you can use a hygrometer to measure the humidity in your room. If the humidity is too low, a humidifier can add moisture to the air. If it’s too high, a dehumidifier can help. For more troubleshooting tips on why your glue might not be sticking, check out our post on Why Your Eyelash Glue Won’t Stick: 12 Common Problems and Fixes.
2. Apply the Right Amount of Glue
When it comes to lash glue, more is not better. Applying a thick layer of adhesive will actually take longer to dry. The glue cures from the outside in, so a thick bead of glue will have a larger volume to cure through. Instead, aim for a thin, even layer of glue along the lash band. This will ensure that the glue cures evenly and quickly.
For a perfect application, try our Elite Eyelash Extension Glue, which is designed for a strong hold and a quick drying time. For more detailed instructions on application, read our guide on How to Apply Eyelash Glue.
3. Wait for the “Tacky” Stage
This is perhaps the most crucial step in the entire process. After applying the glue to the lash band, you need to wait for it to become tacky before applying it to your eyelid. This usually takes about 30-60 seconds, depending on the glue and the humidity. When the glue is tacky, it will be sticky to the touch but won’t transfer to your finger. This is the sweet spot for optimal adhesion.
Applying the lash when the glue is still wet will cause it to slide around and make a mess. If you wait too long and the glue is already dry, it won’t stick at all. You can gently wave the lash strip in the air to help it along, but be patient. That short wait will make all the difference.
4. Use a Lash Fan or Blower
If you want to take your lash game to the next level, consider using a small, handheld lash fan or blower. These devices are used by professional lash artists to speed up the curing process. The gentle stream of air helps to wick away excess moisture and encourages the cyanoacrylate to cure faster. You can find these inexpensive tools at most beauty supply stores. A few seconds of fanning the lash strip can significantly reduce the waiting time for the glue to become tacky.
5. Consider a Lash Primer
A lash primer is a product that is applied to your natural lashes before you apply extensions or strip lashes. It helps to remove any oils or residue from your natural lashes, creating a cleaner surface for the adhesive to bond to. This can lead to a stronger, longer-lasting hold. Our Primer - Without Scent is a great option to prepare your lashes for a flawless application.
By creating an optimal surface for the glue to adhere to, a primer can also help to speed up the bonding process. When the glue has a clean, prepared surface to grab onto, it can cure more efficiently.
Conclusion
Waiting for your eyelash glue to dry doesn’t have to be a test of your patience. By understanding the science behind your lash adhesive and implementing these five pro tips, you can speed up the drying time for a faster, more efficient application. From controlling your environment to using the right products, these small adjustments can make a big difference in your beauty routine. Now you can achieve those perfect, long-lasting lashes without the long wait.
