Eyelash Extensions: Cyanoacrylate Poisoning

Eyelash extensions are a popular beauty treatment, but they come with risks, especially for the professionals who apply them. One potential risk that every lash artist should be aware of is cyanoacrylate poisoning.

This blog post will explain what it is, how it happens, and how lash artists can protect themselves from exposure.

New to lash photo editing? We've got you covered with our Free Lash Editing Tutorial. Click here to learn more!

What Is Cyanoacrylate?

Cyanoacrylate is the main ingredient found in most eyelash extension adhesives. It’s a fast-drying glue that bonds lashes to natural eyelashes.

While it is effective for its purpose, it also releases fumes when it cures, and these fumes can be harmful when inhaled in large amounts or over extended periods.

How Cyanoacrylate Poisoning Happens

When you work in a lash room, the glue fumes can accumulate in the air, especially if proper ventilation is lacking. If you are exposed to these fumes repeatedly or in a high concentration, they can cause health problems.

The symptoms of cyanoacrylate poisoning are often linked to the irritation of the respiratory system, skin, or eyes.

Symptoms of Cyanoacrylate Poisoning

The symptoms can vary from mild to severe, depending on the level of exposure. Some common signs of cyanoacrylate poisoning include:

• Irritated eyes: Redness, itching, or tearing in the eyes.

• Respiratory issues: Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or a sore throat.

• Skin reactions: Redness, burning, or itching on the skin.

• Headaches: A dull or intense headache, especially if you’re exposed to the fumes for a long time.

• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or faint.

In extreme cases, continuous exposure can lead to more severe conditions, like chronic asthma, allergic reactions, or other respiratory disorders. If symptoms persist, it’s important to consult a doctor.

For more tips like this one be sure to subscribe to our email list, we send very informative and helpful emails every week, please click here.  

Preventing Cyanoacrylate Poisoning

As a lash artist, your health should always come first. Here are a few steps to help minimize your risk of cyanoacrylate poisoning in the lash room:

1. Ventilation: Ensure your lash room is well-ventilated. Use fans, open windows, or invest in air purifiers designed to remove harmful chemicals.

2. Quality Adhesives: Use high-quality eyelash extension adhesives with low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These adhesives tend to release fewer fumes.

3. Proper Application: Avoid using excessive amounts of glue. Apply the adhesive only to the base of the natural lash to reduce the amount of glue fumes that are released into the air.

4. PPE (Personal Protective Equipment): Wearing protective gear like gloves, masks, and eye protection can reduce direct exposure to the glue fumes and minimize the risk of skin or eye irritation.

5. Work Breaks: Take regular breaks to step out of the lash room and get fresh air. This can help reduce the amount of exposure to harmful fumes over the course of the day.

6. Client Care: Clients should also be informed about the potential risks of glue fumes. Ensure that the room is properly ventilated for their safety as well.

What to Do if You Experience Symptoms

If you begin to feel symptoms of cyanoacrylate poisoning, it’s important to take action immediately:

• Leave the area: Step outside into fresh air.

• Seek medical attention: If symptoms persist, go to a healthcare provider.

• Avoid further exposure: Take time away from lash application until you fully recover. This will give your body time to heal and reduce the risk of long-term health issues.

Conclusion

Cyanoacrylate poisoning is a real concern for lash artists, but by understanding the risks and taking preventative measures, you can protect your health while continuing to create beautiful lash extensions. Always prioritize safety in your lash room by ensuring proper ventilation, using high-quality adhesives, and protecting yourself with the right equipment.

Remember, your well-being is just as important as the beauty you create.

Do you find this blog post helpful? Have you learned something? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts. Don’t forget to share this blog with your lash friend.

Be sure to follow ThousandLashes on our social media - Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube for helpful lash tips and tricks. 

Anyone needing lash support or lash tips and tricks? Thousandlashes Lash Talk for Beginner Lash Artists will always be open for the kind of support that you will be needing on this lash journey. 

For more tips like this one be sure to subscribe to our email list, we send very informative and helpful emails every week, please click here.

If you want to learn and create a beautiful set of wispy lashes. We have a FREE Training Ebook just for you, please click here.

*Grab your FREE Training Ebook on wispy lashes now! ( limited time only )

To purchase lash products, check out our website. SHOP NOW

ThousandLashes team will do our best to service you with our high-quality products and best service.

Be sure to check out our eyelash extension glue for sensitive eyes! 

Have you noticed how easy it is to put on a set of lashes with our Ultra Crystal Clear Bond? Well, that's no accident! Whether you're using black or colored lashes, this adhesive does the trick every time! This clear bond is a showstopper for clients and lash artists alike.

Shop now for Ultra Crystal Clear Bond>>

RELATED POSTS THAT YOU MIGHT FIND HELPFUL TO UPSCALE YOUR LASH BUSINESS:

Working With L And M Curls: Detailed video on how to work with L, M curl and on how to create beautiful lash sets using these lash curls.

How To Pick A Lash Curl For Your Client?: In this blog, you will learn how to choose the right lash extension length and curl.

Master The Skills Of Color Lashes: Learn the 5 important lash tips on how to work properly with color lashes, what kind of lash glue you should use and on how to mix color lashes.