Lash Science

In this episode, Carly and Olivia are diving deep into the history of cyanoacrylate (the main ingredient in lash adhesives) and are asking one big question… How did this chemistry end up being used in the beauty industry… and on the eyes??! We’re going all the way back to the origins of cyanoacrylate, from its accidental discovery to its early uses in medical and industrial settings, and tracing how it eventually made its way into lash extension services. Let’s just say… we put our tin foil hats on for this one! This episode explores the timeline, the gaps, and the “how did we get here?” moments that most people in the industry have never questioned. 💜 Topics Covered: The discovery of cyanoacrylate Early uses (medical, industrial, and beyond) How it transitioned into beauty + lash applications Why this chemistry became the industry standard The questions no one is asking about lash adhesive origins If you’ve ever wondered why we use what we use in lash extensions, this episode is for you!

In this episode, we’re doing something a little different. Instead of diving into a single scientific topic, we’re sitting down for a candid conversation about the things in the lash industry that drive us crazy... from questionable trends and bad habits to the misinformation that keeps circulating online!! The lash industry is constantly evolving, but not every trend is a good one. This episode is an honest conversation about where we think the industry is getting it wrong — and where it can do better.

In Part 1 of this two-episode deep dive, we’re laying the foundation for understanding LED UV lash lamp safety and what real testing actually looks like behind the scenes! What is IEC 62471, and why does it exist? What are photobiological safety tests measuring, and how do risk groups work? We walk through the basics of how lamps are evaluated, explain the different risk group categories, and share why Lash Apothecary chose to pursue independent third-party testing for the Opal lamp. This episode is all about building context so lash artists can understand the language used around safety claims and certifications. In Part 1, we cover: What IEC 62471 is and what it evaluates The purpose of photobiological safety testing A beginner-friendly overview of risk groups Why third-party testing matters How safety standards apply to LED UV lash lamps If you’ve ever wondered what those classifications actually mean, or why some brands talk about testing while others don’t... this is where to start! https://www.intertek.com/blog/2024/09-17-photobiological-compliance-for-medical-devices/ https://webstore.iec.ch/en/publication/7076

Are the “formaldehyde fumes” from lash adhesive actually harmless… or are we closer to the danger zone than the industry wants to admit? In Part 1, we break down: the difference between fumes, gases, and vapors (and which one formaldehyde actually is) how formaldehyde behaves in the lash room (does it linger? dissolve into skin?) the World Health Organization’s indoor air guideline for formaldehyde exposure how Lash Apothecary’s traditional adhesives measure up to that guideline and why comparisons to fruit, vegetables, or what your body naturally produces are not a relevant comparison to breathing formaldehyde gas This episode sets the science foundation — and yes, it gets spicy!🌶️ Sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK612582/ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5225186/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35674514/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22134404/ https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/hair-smoothing-products-release-formaldehyde-when-heated

In this episode, we explore the question: is there a real connection between cold weather and lash allergies? We walk through a peer-reviewed PubMed study together (reading and interpreting the abstract in real time) and break down what it reveals about how cold, dry environments impact the skin barrier — especially the delicate eyelid area. We then connect that science to what lash artists see in the treatment room: seasonal increases in irritation, sensitivities, and allergic-type reactions — and why a compromised eyelid skin barrier can increase a client’s risk of reacting to products they previously tolerated. If you’re a lash artist who wants to understand the why behind seasonal reactions (and not just how to manage them), this episode will give you a clearer, evidence-based framework for protecting your clients’ skin, eyes, and long-term lash health. Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26449379/

Go behind the booth with the Lash Apothecary team as we share the real, unfiltered story of what it was like being a small brand stepping onto a big stage as a Diamond Sponsor at LashCon — from the chaos to the breakthroughs, and the unforgettable moments we introduced Opal Free to the world!

LashCon 2025 is almost here — and Lash Apothecary is coming in BIG this year. In this episode, Carly and Olivia give you the full breakdown of what to expect from Lash Apothecary at this year’s event. We’re talking booth details, class times, product launches, and everything happening inside our sponsor suite. Whether you’re attending LashCon for the first time or you’re a returning pro, this episode will help you plan your weekend and make sure you don’t miss a thing — from new launches to live demos and exclusive education opportunities!! SEE YOU THERE!

The EU (European Union) has officially banned TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) in all cosmetic products starting September 1, 2025. This includes gel nail polish and LED UV lash adhesives — but why did this happen, what does it mean for beauty professionals, and should you be worried? In this episode, we break down: What TPO is and how it’s used as a photo initiator in beauty products Why it was originally considered safe, and what changed after rat studies in 2021 The difference between cosmetic use (ban) and dental use (still allowed) How much TPO was actually given to test animals (hint: way more than real salon exposure) What this means for nail techs, lash artists, and salon owners — including what to do with old stock The rise of “TPO-free” products and whether TPO-L is a safe replacement This is not just a nail industry issue — it affects all cosmetic professionals, including lash artists using LED UV curing systems. If you’re a beauty pro trying to make sense of the headlines (New York Post, People, Allure, The Times), this episode gives you the science, context, and business impact you need to stay ahead!! Common Names on MSDS/SDS Sheets: Diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide CAS #75980-60-8 EC/EINECS #278-355-8

Are oils really ruining your retention — or have we all been lied to? In this episode of Lash Science, Carly and Olivia are joined by cosmetic chemist, Michael Becker, to finally get to the bottom of one of the most misunderstood topics in lash care: OIL. We cover everything from: How oils actually interact with lash adhesives (traditional and light-cured) Which oils are actually a problem… and which ones are totally fine Whether light-cured adhesives hold up better against oil-based products Common myths about "oil-free" aftercare Why not all cleansers and balms are created equal This is the episode every lash artist and educator needs to hear!

Is UV light a public health threat… or have we been scared into sunlight phobia? In this episode, we dive into the "Great Solar Debate", breaking down how sunburns, tanning, and skin cancer actually happen, and whether the lash industry (and the world) have misunderstood UV exposure altogether. We cover what UVA and UVB really do to your skin, how the electromagnetic spectrum plays a role, and the difference between damage, and disease. We also talk about how much sun exposure is actually healthy, and why a little UV isn’t just safe—it’s essential!!!! Then, we zoom in on LED UV lash lamps, like Opal, and explain exactly why they cannot cause sunburns, tans, premature aging, or cancer—despite the fear-mongering going around the lash industry........... What if UV wasn’t the villain, it was just misunderstood? Listen now to find out.

In this special episode, Carly and Olivia are joined by optometrists Dr. Gurleen Dhanoa and Dr. Aysha Chaudhry from @eyestheticsofficial for an in-depth conversation about ocular health, lash extensions, and why hypochlorous acid (HOCl) deserves a place in every lash artist’s routine! We discuss how they became involved in the lash industry, what healthy lash extensions and proper ocular hygiene look like from an eye doctor’s perspective, and the best practices they wish more lash artists would follow. The episode then dives into all things HOCl: what it is, where it comes from, how it can benefit both lash artists and clients, and how to properly store and apply it. They also cover practical topics like HOCl concentration, product shelf life, packaging differences, client aftercare, and even whether artists should consider charging for HOCl treatments as an add-on or just include it in every service. If you’ve ever wondered how to elevate your lash services with medical-grade eye care practices, this episode is packed with expert insights you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of Lash Science, Carly and Olivia tackle your most Googled, TikTok’d, Reddit’d questions about LED UV lash extensions. This is Part 1 of our deep-dive Q&A series—and we’re covering the basics and the juicy stuff: How do LED/UV lash systems actually work? What's the difference between LED and UV light? Do they really improve retention? Can you get them wet right away? What’s the biggest mistake beginners make with light curing? Is it actually worth it? We’re busting myths, sharing science-backed facts, and giving you honest answers to help you decide if light curing is right for your lash biz. Tune in and tag us with your questions for Part 2!

Think you know how to patch test for lash extensions? Think again. In this episode, we're breaking down the correct way to perform a patch test — using one eye only, applying 10–15 lashes in a single section, and replicating your full service exactly — whether you’re using traditional or light-cured adhesive. We explain why this method matters, what subtle symptoms to watch for, and how even the smallest reaction can signal something bigger. You’ll also learn what to do if your client reacts, and how patch testing fits into a responsible lash artist’s routine — especially in today’s world of rising sensitivities. This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about client safety, longevity, and lashing with integrity — no matter your adhesive type. Let’s stop guessing and start testing — properly.