If you have ever had a client whose lashes just will not stick properly no matter what you do, chances are you are working with low porosity lashes that need a little extra prep and attention before application.
What is lash porosity?
Lash porosity refers to how resistant a natural lash is to absorbing moisture and therefore lash glue. When a client has low porosity, their lash cuticle is tightly sealed, making it hard for adhesive to fully wrap and bond to the lash cuticle.
Signs of low porosity lashes:
- Shiny in appearance
- Thick and strong
- Resistant when you bend them back as they spring right into placed
Because these lashes are so strong, extensions may slip or struggle to attach; BUT don’t worry, with the right prep, they can have incredible connection and retention – They just need a little extra love and attention, that's all.
Pre-service prep for low porosity clients:
Prime Properly:
- Use a high quality primer like Bond-Aid, that will effectively open the lash cuticle without drying it out.
- Apply with two lint-free applicators, working from mid-shaft to base.
- Let it fully dry (use your LAL Gluburrator to speed this up, it doubles as a glue shaker + fan also).
Supercharge with Superbonder:
- After priming, go in with Lost Artistry Superbonder.
- It opens the cuticle and has curing properties that create an instant “magnetic” connection.
- You can even send Superbonder home with your clients, it’s designed to be used as aftercare to re-cure bonds and extend retention.
Extra Credit, The Popsicle Trick:
- For extremely stubborn lashes, gently rub the lash base between two popsicle sticks to “rough up” the surface area slightly.
- Focus only where the glue will attach, avoid the tips!
Pro Tip:
If the lashes start feeling resistant again mid service, you can reapply Superbonder. Just make sure it’s fully dry before continuing because applying adhesive to wet product can shock cure your glue and disrupt the bond.
And that’s how you turn a tricky low porosity client into a retention success story!
