Why Skin Patch Testing Lash Glue is a Big Fat Nope

Listen, love. I know some people still believe it's a good idea to perform a patch test for lash glue by dabbing a bit behind the ear or on the wrist 'just to check'. But in the lash world, that is a big no-no. It's old school, dangerous, and not really a reliable approach to predict how your client would respond.

Let's be serious and speak about why you should never, ever apply lash glue directly to skin.

First Off, Lash Glue Isn’t Made for Skin 

Lash extension glue is intended to connect extensions to natural lashes - hair to hair, not skin. It includes cyanoacrylate, a very powerful bonding agent. If you apply it to your skin, it might cause irritation, chemical burns, or even blisters. It's similar to using superglue as hand lotion; it's just not supposed to belong there.

It Can Trigger the Reaction You’re Trying to Avoid 

Here's the crazy thing: using lash adhesive directly to the skin might cause someone to acquire an allergy to it, even if they've never had one. Harsh chemicals irritate your skin's immune system, and frequent exposure might cause it to overreact.

So, while a skin patch test may appear to assist, it is possible that you are generating an issue that did not exist in the first place.

Patch Tests Don’t Actually Work for Lash Glue 

A standard patch test is appropriate for goods like hair colour since the chemicals reside on the skin during regular use, making it logical to test them that way. However, the fumes from sensitive eyelash glue, rather than the adhesive itself, cause the majority of allergic responses.

During a lash session, the glue is never supposed to come into contact with your client's skin, so testing it there doesn't reveal anything. Someone may pass a skin patch test without incident, yet react during a full set due to prolonged exposure to fumes.

The Safer Way to Test for Sensitivity 

Instead of skin testing, conduct a lash line patch test. This entails applying a few extensions (often 5-10 per eye) a few days before the session. That way, the glue is applied exactly as it would be in a regular set - on the lashes, not the skin - and your customer is exposed to the fumes in a realistic manner.

If there is a reaction, it will manifest in a form that is consistent with the actual session, without causing excessive skin harm. 

Cover Yourself and Educate Your Clients

It's not enough to merely do things correctly; you also need to explain why. If a customer requests a skin patch test, inform them that it is hazardous and worthless, and recommend the lash line test instead. This demonstrates that you are knowledgeable and maintains your professional image.

Also, ensure that your consent forms and consultations address allergies and responses. Even if someone has had lashes previously, allergies might arise at any moment; it's uncommon, but it does happen. 

Skin patch testing for lash glue is not only out of date, but also harmful and inaccurate. The safest option is to test the adhesive on lashes rather than skin.

Protect your clients and your business by sticking to proven practices. Because nothing spoils a lash session quicker than puffy, irritated eyes, and no one wants to be the lash tech who causes the drama.