When it comes to applying lash extensions, there are various steps and products involved to ensure a flawless and long-lasting result. One such product is lash primer.
Primer is used to prepare the natural lashes before applying extensions. However, the question arises: should primer be used on all clients? In this blog, we will explore the benefits and considerations of using primer and whether it is necessary for every single client.
What is Lash Primer?
Lash primer is a product that is applied to the natural lashes before lash extensions are attached. Its main purpose is to cleanse the lashes, remove any oils or residue, and create an optimal surface for the adhesive to bond well with the natural lashes. Primer typically comes in a liquid or gel form and is applied using a microfibre or lip brush.
How do Primers work?
Primers contain a number of different ingredients to help prep the natural lashes for the application of eyelash extensions. But how do the ingredients work to achieve these results?
- Alcohols (ethanols, is isopropyl alcohol etc) cleanse and degrease the lash, removing any of the sebum (oil), protein and dead skin cell build up. The alcohols dissolve and lift the contaminants to provide a better surface for the adhesive to bond to.
- pH Adjusters like Sodium Hydroxide or TEA are sometimes added to primers (may also be found in separate pH balancers instead) to slightly raise the pH of the natural lash. Most adhesives work best in a pH of around 7-9, whereas our natural lashes usually sit at a pH of around 5.5. So, having an ingredient that makes the natural lashes more alkaline will create a better bond between the adhesive and the lash.
- Conditioning Agents like keratin, biotin or peptides can sometimes be added to condition the lashes post cleanse. These ingredients will help to improve the condition of the natural lash, meaning they are less brittle and prone to breaking. These ingredients do not necessarily improve the function of the primer itself but provide a great secondary function to improve the overall health of the natural lashes, therefore improving retention.
What are the Benefits of Using a Primer?
1. Enhanced Adhesive Bond: Primer helps to remove any oils, dirt, or makeup residue from the natural lashes, ensuring a clean surface for the adhesive to adhere to. This results in a stronger bond between the extensions and the natural lashes, leading to better retention.
2. Longer Lasting Extensions: By using primer, the adhesive can bond more effectively, resulting in lash extensions that last longer. The improved bond between the extensions and the natural lashes helps to prevent premature shedding or loosening of the extensions. This means that clients can enjoy their lash extensions for an extended period before needing a fill or touch-up.
3. Improved Lash Health: Lash primer not only prepares the lashes for extensions but also helps to nourish and condition them. Many lash primers contain ingredients such as vitamins, peptides, and antioxidants that promote lash health and growth. Regular use of primer can contribute to stronger, healthier natural lashes.
Things to Consider when Using Primer
While lash primer offers several benefits, it is important to consider certain factors before using it on all clients:
Sensitivity and Allergies
Some clients may have sensitive skin or allergies to certain ingredients present in lash primers. It is crucial to perform a patch test before using primer on a client for the first time. This helps to identify any potential adverse reactions and ensures the client’s safety.
Client’s Natural Lash Condition
Not all clients have the same natural lash condition. Some may have naturally oily lashes, while others may have dry or brittle lashes. In such cases, the use of primer may need to be adjusted according to the specific needs of the client. For clients with oily lashes, primer can be beneficial in removing excess oils and improving adhesive bond. However, for clients with dry or brittle lashes, the use of primer may need to be minimized or avoided altogether to prevent further drying or damage.
If primers are used on clients with already brittle and dehydrated lashes, there won’t be enough moisture within the lash to start the curing process. This will cause a weaker bond (if any) between the glue and the lashes and make it much harder for the extension to attach. Therefore, if the client does have already dehydrated lashes, it is best to use a hydrating cleanser in place of a primer.
Skill and Experience of the Lash Artist
The application of lash primer requires skill and precision. Lash artists should be trained in the proper use of primer to ensure its effective and safe application. Inexperienced or untrained lash artists may not be able to use primer correctly, leading to potential issues such as over-drying of the lashes or improper adhesive bonding.
While lash primer offers several benefits in terms of enhancing adhesive bond, improving lash retention, and promoting lash health, it is not necessary to use it on all clients in every situation. Factors such as client sensitivity, natural lash condition, and the skill of the lash artist should be taken into consideration.
Ultimately, the decision to use primer should be made on a case-by-case basis, ensuring the best possible outcome for each individual client. Communication between the lash artist and the client is key to understanding their specific needs and preferences, and to achieve the desired results in lash extension application.
We hope this helped clarify some important points for you! If you have any specific topics you would like us to cover, let us know in the comments!
If you want to learn more about the basics behind eyelash extensions, make sure to take a look at our e-learning video – The Basics.
The Pinkfishes Training Team xx
