Aside from creating beautiful lashes client after client, lash artists also need to make client and personal safety a priority by having a plan in place for adhesive spills. If the glue bottle tips, don’t panic! Take action by using these helpful tips to ensure a safe cleanup.
If glue spills on your workstation … immediately pour water on the affected area. Water will cause the Cyanoacrylate, a key component in all lash adhesives, to become thick and turn white. At that point you can remove the dried glue with acetone or an approved adhesive remover. Remember never to use a paper towel, napkin or cloth that contains cotton fibers because they can react with the Cyanoacrylate and become flammable.
If glue gets on someone’s skin… quickly soak affected area in water (a sink is preferred) causing it to harden and turn white. Depending
on the severity and location of the spill, you have a few options. 1) let the glue dry and gently pick it off 2) use an approved remover and apply with a cotton-free cloth or 3) soak the area in warm soapy water to avoid any possibly skin irritation that might occur from using the remover in option two.
If glue gets in your client’s eye… the most serious of the scenarios, prompt action is required to reduce the risk of complications. Remember that Cyanoacrylate will harden with moisture so, if it enters the eye, it will immediately start to harden instead of spreading within the eye. Natural tears should be enough to remove all of glue remnants over time. Keep a gentle saline solution on hand which will help flush out glue particles.
For any scenario, be sure to refer to your adhesive’s MSDS sheet which should be conveniently located at your work station. Even though application will become second nature for experienced lash artists, always exercise caution and safety at every appointment to help avoid accidents.
