What does lash sealant do, and should you use it?

Lash sealants are often marketed as essential products for maintaining the longevity of lash extensions. However, the reality is that they may not be as beneficial as they seem. While lash sealants are designed to create a protective barrier over your extensions, preventing moisture, dirt, and oil from breaking down the adhesive, they also have significant drawbacks.

Potential downsides of lash sealants

1. Extra weight: Lash sealants can add unnecessary weight to your natural lashes. This extra weight can lead to stress on your natural lashes, potentially causing them to shed prematurely, which defeats the purpose of prolonging the life of your extensions.
2. Clumpy appearance: When used with volume lashes, sealants can cause the delicate fans to close, resulting in a clumpy and unnatural appearance. Volume lashes are meant to be lightweight and fluffy, and adding a sealant can compromise their aesthetic appeal.
3. Limited use cases: Lash sealants may only be useful in specific scenarios, such as achieving a wet lash style. However, even in this case, using a lash primer or instant cure is generally more effective and provides better results without the potential downsides of a sealant.

Why lash bonders are a better alternative

For those seeking better retention and overall lash health, lash bonders are a superior alternative. Lash bonders work by curing the adhesive more quickly, ensuring that the bond between your natural lashes and extensions is strong and durable. This results in longer-lasting extensions without the added weight or risk of clumping.

Benefits of lash bonders:

• Improved retention: Lash bonders help to lock in the extensions, providing longer-lasting results compared to sealants.
• Lightweight: Unlike sealants, bonders do not add extra weight to your lashes, preserving the natural feel and appearance of your extensions.
• Versatility: Lash bonders can be used with all lash styles, including volume lashes, without compromising the look or feel of the extensions.

How to achieve better retention without a sealant

If you’re aiming for optimal retention and beautiful lash extensions, consider the following tips:

1. Use a lash primer: Lash primers prepare the lashes for optimal bonding by removing excess oil and residue, ensuring the adhesive adheres properly.
2. Apply an instant cure: An instant cure can be applied after the lash extension procedure to cure the adhesive faster and enhance the bond.
3. Proper aftercare: Advise clients to avoid oil-based products and excessive moisture around their lashes, as these can weaken the adhesive and reduce the lifespan of their extensions.

When to use lash sealants

While lash sealants are generally not recommended for most lash styles, they may have a place in specific situations. For example, if a client prefers a wet lash style, a sealant might help achieve this look by adding a glossy finish. However, even in this case, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and consider using a lash primer or bonder instead.

Final thoughts

For those seeking better retention and overall lash health, using an instant cure or lash bonder is a superior option. Lash bonders effectively seal the adhesive without adding extra weight, helping to lock in the extensions and promote longer-lasting results. This method is especially beneficial as it cures the adhesive faster and ensures that your lashes remain light and fluffy.

If you’re aiming for a specific lash style, such as the wet lash look, using a lash primer instead of a sealant can also be more effective. Primers prepare the lashes for optimal bonding and retention without the drawbacks associated with sealants.

FAQ

Is lash sealant necessary?

No, it’s not necessary. Instant cures or lash bonders offer better results without the drawbacks of sealants.

Can lash sealant be used with volume lashes?

It’s not recommended, as it can cause the fans to close, making the lashes look clumpy.

What is the best alternative to lash sealant?

Lash bonders are a superior alternative, offering better retention and protection without adding extra weight or compromising the look of volume lashes.