Retention is one of the most important topics in the lash industry. As lash artists, we’ve all had clients who say “my lashes didn’t last as long as I expected.” While it’s easy to blame the glue or the client’s aftercare, the truth is lash retention is a 50/50 contribution.

• 50% is the artist’s responsibility — proper application, correct glue usage, and a controlled lash room environment.

• 50% is the client’s responsibility — consistent aftercare and daily maintenance.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what every lash artist should focus on to improve lash retention:

1. Know Your Adhesive & Its Environment

Every lash adhesive is designed to work within a specific humidity and temperature range. If your lash room isn’t set up correctly, your glue will not cure properly — and poor curing = poor retention.

✅ Check your glue’s recommended range (e.g., 40–60% humidity, 20–24°C).
✅ Use a hygrometer in your room to monitor humidity and temperature.
✅ Invest in tools (humidifier, dehumidifier, or air conditioner) to control your lash environment.

👉 Pro Tip: If your adhesive cures too fast for your lashing speed, you’ll get poor bonding. If it cures too slow, lashes may stick together. Always match the glue’s dry time to your personal application speed.

2. Lash Preparation Is Key

Retention starts before you even dip into your adhesive. If natural lashes are not thoroughly cleaned, the glue will not bond properly.

✅ Remove all oils, makeup, and debris with a lash cleanser.
✅ Prime lashes if necessary (especially for oily clients).
✅ Make sure lashes are 100% dry before application.

👉 Pro Tip: Never skip this step. A “dirty base” leads to early lash shedding, no matter how good your glue is.

3. Application Technique Matters

How you dip and place your lashes directly affects retention.

✅ Right amount of glue: Not too little (weak bond), not too much (clumping or slow curing). The adhesive bead should be smooth, not stringy.
✅ Proper placement: Extensions should bond to the natural lash without gaps, tilting, or excess glue.
✅ Isolation: Ensure every natural lash is properly isolated to avoid “stickies,” which cause premature fallout.

👉 Pro Tip: Always adjust your pickup based on humidity. In higher humidity, work faster because glue cures quickly. In lower humidity, you may need to use a slower-drying adhesive or adjust your technique.

4. Educate Your Clients

Even if you apply lashes perfectly, retention will fail if your client doesn’t take care of them. This is why client education is so important.

✅ First 24 Hours: Avoid water, steam, or sweat while glue fully cures.
✅ Daily Care: Wash lashes daily with a lash-safe cleanser — dirty lashes = poor bonding.
✅ Avoid Oils: No oil-based makeup or skincare around the eye area.
✅ No Picking or Pulling: Picking damages natural lashes and reduces retention.

👉 Pro Tip: Give every client an aftercare card or lash cleanser with their appointment so they leave with the right tools to care for their set.

5. Choose the Right Glue for Your Speed

Not every adhesive is made for every lash artist. A fast-drying glue might be perfect for experienced artists, but stressful for beginners.

✅ Beginners: Use a glue with 2–3 second dry time to give yourself room to adjust.
✅ Intermediate: A 1–2 second dry time adhesive works well as your speed improves.
✅ Advanced: A 0.5–1 second glue is ideal for high-volume artists who work quickly.

👉 Pro Tip: Always do your research and test your glue before switching brands. Not every adhesive will work the same in your environment.

Final Thoughts

Retention is not about one single factor — it’s about many small steps done consistently. From proper room setup, to lash prep, to client education, each step plays a vital role in ensuring lashes last 2–4 weeks.

✨ Remember: 50% is your responsibility, and 50% is your client’s. If both sides do their part, retention issues become a thing of the past.

Call to Action:
At Lashes & Aesthetics by Summiya, we don’t just train lash artists — we supply them with professional tools, adhesives, and fiber-tip tweezers to achieve flawless retention every time.

👉 Shop our Frost Fire Bond Adhesive and Labubu Tweezer Collection today to elevate your lash sets.