Being a professional lash artist means to set the satisfaction and safety of clients as a top priority. We all are engaged in a constant battle for the top effect and flawless work. However, there are lots of obstacles on a way of professionals, and a common one is shock polymerization. It could bring a big trouble in the past, but those days are gone. The key is to understand this phenomenon and then you’’ be able to easily and prevent it. This point is crucial for lash artists to ensure excellent lash retention and client happiness.
What is Shock Polymerization?
Shock polymerization in eyelash extensions refers to the rapid and uncontrolled hardening of the adhesive used to attach the extensions to the natural lashes. This process results in a weakened bond, poor retention, and often visible white residue on extension. All that leaves clients extremely dissatisfied with their lashes.
So how does that happen? Shock polymerization occurs when the adhesive, namely its cyanoacrylate-based formula, reacts too quickly due to environmental factors or improper application techniques.
Key indicators of shock polymerization include:
- White residue on the eyelashes, often mistaken for poor-quality adhesive or application errors.
- Brittle or flaky adhesive bonds that result in premature lash shedding.
- Difficulty in achieving smooth, seamless lash extensions.
What Causes Shock Polymerization?
There are several common factors that may lead to the unwanted shock curing effect.
- Environmental Factors
- Humidity: High humidity levels can accelerate the curing process of the adhesive, leading to shock polymerization. Conversely, low humidity can slow down the curing process, causing other issues. Moreover, exposing the adhesive that has not fully cured to moisture can instantly lead to shock curing.
- Temperature: Extreme temperatures, either heat or frost, can disrupt the adhesive's chemical balance and trigger shock polymerization.
- Incorrect Handling and Storage of Adhesive Products
- Adhesives need to be stored properly to maintain their efficacy. Exposure to air, moisture, or varying temperatures can degrade the adhesive, making it more susceptible to shock polymerization.
- Application Techniques:
- Using too much adhesive can create clumps that are prone to shock polymerization.
- Not allowing adequate time for the adhesive to set before moving to the next lash can also cause rapid curing issues.
How Do You Fight Shock Polymerization?
Preventing shock polymerization requires a combination of right products usage, environmental control, client awareness and proper techniques.
Environmental Control:
- Maintain Optimal Humidity Levels: Aim for a workspace humidity level between 40-60%. Using a hygrometer can help you monitor and adjust the humidity levels as needed.
- Implement Temperature Control Measures: Ensure that the workspace is kept at a consistent, moderate temperature to prevent extreme conditions that could affect the adhesive. We recommend adding Booster to your application routine, as it adjusts the environment to adhesive requirements.
Proper Adhesive Handling:
- Store Adhesives Properly: Keep your adhesive in a cool, dark and dry place, away from heat, direct sunlight and moisture. This helps maintain their integrity and performance. Always ensure that adhesive containers are tightly sealed when not in use to prevent exposure to air and moisture.
- Always use Bonder (Glue Sealer): This is the main factor to prevent shock curing. Bonder is used at the end of the procedure and instantly cures the adhesive. After that, client can expose their lashes to moisture straight after the lash set is completed. They can attend pool, beach or drench in the rain and their extensions will remain intact
- Use Fresh Adhesive: Keep an eye on the shelf life of your adhesive and avoid using expired products, as they are more likely to cause shock polymerization.
Application Techniques:
- Apply Adhesive Sparingly: Use a minimal amount of adhesive to achieve a clean bond without clumping. This reduces the chances of shock polymerization.
- Allow Adequate Setting Time: Give each lash enough time to set before moving on to the next. Rushing the process can lead to rapid curing and shock polymerization.
Choosing the Right Products:
- Select Climate-Specific Adhesives: Choose adhesives that are formulated to perform well in the specific climate conditions of your area. This can greatly reduce the risk of shock polymerization lashes.
- Opt for High-Quality Brands: For example, Stacy Lash newest adhesive, Premium Pro cures within just an hour, instead of usual 24 hours. Typically, client has to wait for 24-48 hours before getting the extension wet. However, with Premium Pro, this time is reduced to just 1 hour.
Conclusion
Shock polymerization was a common challenge in the eyelash extension industry, but time flies, and now it can be effectively managed. With the magical tools like Bonder and Premium Pro glue, you can let your clients live their best life and don’t stress out due to moisture and potential risks. Also, by controlling environmental factors, handling adhesives properly, and refining application techniques, lash artists can avoid this issue and ensure excellent lash retention. Prioritizing these practices not only enhances the quality of the extensions but also guarantees the safety and satisfaction of clients, leading to a more successful and reputable lash business.
