How to Choose the Right Lash Extension Adhesive for Better Retention
Every lash artist knows the real secret to beautiful lash sets isn’t just the type of lashes—it’s the adhesive. The glue you choose can completely change how long extensions last, how comfortable they feel, and how satisfied your clients are when they leave your chair. With so many different lash extension supplies available today, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when selecting the right adhesive. But once you understand the basics, choosing becomes much simpler.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to select the perfect lash adhesive for classic lashes, volume lashes, and Russian lashes, while also sharing practical tips to help you achieve maximum retention every time.
Why Adhesive Matters More Than You Think
Lash adhesive is more than just a product—it’s the foundation of every set. A high-quality adhesive keeps lashes in place, prevents premature shedding, and ensures the extensions look flawless from day one to week three.
If the adhesive doesn’t match the technique you’re using, problems quickly arise: clumping, fans closing, poor retention, or even discomfort for your client. That’s why no lash artist should overlook this step when choosing their lash extension supplies.
Adhesive for Classic Lashes
Classic lashes are the most natural-looking style, applied one extension per natural lash. For this technique, you need an adhesive that’s strong but not too thick, with a slightly slower drying time.
Why? Because with classic application, precision matters more than speed. An adhesive that dries in 2–3 seconds gives you time to place each lash neatly, without stress. Too fast, and you’ll struggle with placement; too slow, and retention may suffer.
When stocking your lash extension supplies, always keep an adhesive specifically designed for classic applications. This ensures clean bonds, no stickiness, and beautiful natural results.
Adhesive for Volume Lashes
When moving into volume lashes, the game changes. Here, you’re applying multiple extensions—either handmade or pre-made fans—onto one natural lash. That means the adhesive has to be lighter, thinner, and quicker to dry.
Volume sets look their best when the fans stay open and fluffy. If your adhesive dries too slowly, the fans may close before they bond, ruining the look. That’s why most lash artists prefer a fast-drying adhesive (1–2 seconds) for volume work.
The right adhesive also ensures long-lasting retention. Your client wants to enjoy their volume set for weeks, not days. Adding a strong, thin adhesive to your lash extension supplies is key for this technique.
Adhesive for Russian Lashes
Russian lashes take volume artistry to another level. This style uses ultra-fine extensions in dense, dramatic fans, creating a bold and glamorous look. Because so many lightweight lashes are applied, you need an adhesive with instant bonding and maximum hold.
Russian volume requires adhesives that are fast-drying, often less than a second, so fans don’t close before attachment. If you’re working with this technique, the adhesive must also be flexible enough to keep retention strong without feeling heavy.
Many advanced lash artists keep two adhesives in their kit—one for volume and one specifically for Russian styles. This ensures you’re always prepared, no matter what your client requests.
How to Choose the Right Adhesive
When selecting adhesives for your lash extension supplies, consider these key factors:
1. Drying Speed – Beginners should use slower adhesives for control. Experienced artists can use faster-drying ones for efficiency.
2. Consistency – Thicker adhesives are better for classic lashes, while thinner adhesives suit volume and Russian lashes.
3. Retention Strength – Always choose adhesives designed for long-lasting wear. Good retention means happy clients.
4. Humidity & Temperature – Adhesives react differently depending on your studio environment. Choose one that matches your climate.
5. Sensitivity – Always keep a low-fume adhesive for clients with sensitive eyes. This is a must-have in every lash artist’s kit.
Pro Tips for Better Retention
Even with the best adhesive, technique matters. Here are some pro tips:
- Prep properly: Always clean natural lashes with a cleanser before applying extensions.
- Use a primer: This helps remove oils and creates a better bond.
- Replace adhesive drops often: Every 20–30 minutes during appointments, refresh your glue.
- Store correctly: Keep adhesives away from sunlight, heat, and moisture to maintain quality.
- Work at the right speed: Match your adhesive’s drying time to your skill level.
These steps, combined with the right adhesive, guarantee your classic lashes, volume lashes, and Russian lashes look flawless and last beautifully.
Building the Perfect Lash Extension Kit
As a lash artist, your lash extension supplies should include more than just lashes and tweezers. Adhesives are the heart of your kit. Here’s what every lash professional should have:
- Adhesives with different drying times (slow, medium, and fast)
- Classic lashes for natural sets
- Lightweight volume lashes for fluffy looks
- Ultra-fine Russian lashes for dramatic styles
- Primer, lash cleanser, and adhesive remover
Having these essentials ensures you’re ready for every client, whether they want subtle elegance or bold drama.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right adhesive may feel tricky at first, but once you understand the differences between classic lashes, volume lashes, and Russian lashes, the process becomes much easier. Your adhesive should match your speed, your client’s needs, and the environment you’re working in.
With the right lash extension supplies, you can deliver results that look stunning and last longer, giving your clients a reason to return again and again.
Upgrade Your Lash Extension Supplies Today
At BBA Lash & Brow Art Studio, we believe every lash artist deserves the best tools for their craft. That’s why we provide premium adhesives, classic, volume, and Russian lashes, along with everything else you need to achieve flawless results.
FAQs
1. I’m new to lashing—what lash extension supplies should I start with?
If you’re just starting out, your lash extension supplies should include the basics: a gentle lash cleanser, primer, tweezers, and a beginner-friendly adhesive with a slower drying time. Start practicing with classic lashes to perfect your technique. Once you feel confident, you can expand your kit to include volume lashes and Russian lashes for more advanced styles.
2. Which adhesive is best for classic lashes?
When applying classic lashes, it’s best to use an adhesive with a drying time of about 2–3 seconds. This gives you enough time to place each lash carefully while ensuring good retention. A slightly thicker adhesive works well to create clean, natural bonds.
3. Is there a difference between adhesives for classic lashes and volume lashes?
Yes, there’s a big difference! Adhesive for volume lashes is thinner and dries faster because volume fans need to stay open and fluffy during application. If you use the same adhesive as classic lashes, you might end up with closed fans or poor retention.
4. What kind of adhesive should I choose for Russian lashes?
For Russian lashes, you’ll want a strong adhesive that dries in under a second. These lashes are super lightweight and dense, so a fast-drying glue helps them bond instantly and keeps your fans looking full and fluffy.
5. How can I get better lash retention with my lash extension supplies?
For long-lasting results, always prep your client’s natural lashes by cleansing and priming before application. Shake your adhesive well, replace glue drops regularly, and choose the right adhesive for classic lashes, volume lashes, or Russian lashes. These small steps will make a huge difference in retention.
