Lash artists often rush through the preparation phase of lash extensions, aiming to complete the process as quickly as possible. However, proper preparation is critical for ensuring the longevity and quality of the extensions. This article focuses on the second step of lash preparation, which follows makeup removal and cleaning the interlash area.
The second step of preparation involves degreasing and protecting the natural lashes. The primary goal here is RETENTION. Using pre-treatment is essential for completely purifying the natural lashes of grease. The sebaceous glands around the eyelids actively produce oils that can easily transfer to the eyelashes. This grease is detrimental to the adhesive used in lash extensions, as it prevents proper bonding, leading to premature detachment and short retention. Additionally, greasy lashes can ruin the client's overall look.
While alcohol is highly effective for degreasing, it can also dehydrate the lashes. To solve this issue, the Lovely brand has developed a pre-treatment containing a delicate and smart alcohol blend that gently removes grease without dehydrating the lashes. This formulation includes:
• Glycerin: A moisturizing ingredient that prevents dehydration.
• Polysorbate 20: A cleansing agent that binds residual grease and dirt, gently removing them from the skin and lash surface.
By ensuring the natural lashes are free of grease, the adhesive can work more effectively, providing a secure bond for the extensions.
The Lovely Pre-Treatment (Degreaser) is ideal for lash extensions. Lash artists should use a micro-brush to clean the surface of the natural lashes, removing any dust or dirt that could interfere with the adhesive.
Moreover, Lovely Pre-Treatment and Primers features a light, pleasant fragrance such as Mango, Aloe, and Coconut. These fragrances are non-allergenic, making them safe for the delicate eye area of lashes.
The next crucial step is applying a primer, which serves a different purpose than pre-treatment. The primer protects the natural lash from dehydration and enhances the bond between the natural and artificial lashes.
During the lash extension process, the adhesive tends to absorb moisture from nearby sources, primarily the client's natural lashes. Primers create a protective coating on the lashes, preventing dehydration. This coating has a rough texture, which significantly strengthens the bond between the natural and artificial lashes.
Lash artists should be mindful of the primer's pH level, as it affects the adhesive's curing speed. A pH above 6.5 can accelerate the adhesive's setting time. While this isn't the primary feature of the adhesive, it's important to be aware of its influence.
Lovely primers are available with different pH levels to cater to various needs:
• Tears: pH 6.93-7.45
• Human Skin: pH 4.0-7.0 (average 4.7-5.5)
The optimal pH for adhesives is slightly alkaline, around 8.0 units. This environment enhances the polymerization process, ensuring a stronger bond.
Lovely Pre-Treatment and Primer have a pH value of 8.5, providing the ideal slightly alkaline environment for optimal adhesive polymerization. Using both products in your lash extension process ensures the best results, with improved retention and a more durable bond.
Understanding the difference between pre-treatment (degreaser) and primer, and the importance of using both, is crucial for successful lash extensions. Proper preparation not only enhances the adhesive's performance but also protects the natural lashes, ensuring a beautiful and long-lasting result. Choose Lovely Pre-Treatment and Primer for the best results in lash extension treatments.