When you begin your eyelash extension training in Long Island, NY, you might find yourself wondering what all the fuss is about when it comes to using a primer. While there are many pros to using a primer when applying for lash extensions, not all products are created equal—and being well-versed in the dos and don’ts of proper lash application is imperative if you plan on how to become an esthetician.
You know that a strong lash bond is a key to long-lasting extensions. You also know that the faster the attachment process, the better. A lash primer was formulated to quicken the attachment time between the extension and the lash. While this might sound great, some primers can do more harm than good. The biggest culprit is alcohol-based primers.
Since they are made to remove excess oils and residue, primer often contains poly ethanol—or alcohol. While it is meant to dissolve dirt and oil from the natural lash line, it doesn’t stop there. Alcohol-based primers will also dry out the entire area, which can lead to brittle lashes and dry, flaky lids. Other potential risks that can come with using an alcohol-based primer include the following:
Dryness – The alcohol in the primer solution can sit on your client’s skin for days. This dries out the skin and the hair follicles, which creates weaker lashes and irritating dryness.
Eye Irritation – If too much alcohol-based primer is used, there is a potential that it could leak into the eyes of your client. Even when washed out immediately, there is a good chance that the alcohol will cause painful burning followed by irritation and redness.
Weakened Bond – The ultimate irony of using an alcohol-based primer is that a product formulated to create such a strong bond will ultimately weaken the adhesion. This is because the alcohol removes moisture from the lashes in addition to dirt and oil. That means there is nothing to help the lash glue cure, which leaves your client with brittle, less flexible lashes that are difficult to bond.
