How to Keep Your Lash Extension Glue from Getting Stringy

Stringy Lash Adhesive: What it is, Why it Happens, and How to Deal with It

Eyelash extensions glue is a crucial part of your lash extension kit, but it does have a shelf life. Using expired lash adhesive can result in a sticky, stringy mess that complicates your application and disrupts your lash designs. Here's how to prevent your lash extensions glue from getting stringy, and what to do when it does.

What is Stringy Glue?

You may have heard terms like “goopy” or “stringy” when describing lash glue. If your glue begins to exhibit these characteristics, it’s a clear indication that it’s no longer effective. A stringy or gooey consistency means it’s time to replace it. Depending on the type you use—whether for classic, hybrid, or mega volume lashes—London Lash glues have slightly different consistencies, you can refer to our Glue Chart to see the consistency for your eyelash extension glue. If your glue is coming out of the bottle stringy, it’s beyond revival and should be swapped out for a fresh bottle.

Tip: If you’re using a Jade Stone (which we highly recommend over glue rings), the glue may become slightly stringy after about 15 minutes. Just stop using the old drop and dispense a new one. However, if your glue is stringy right from the bottle, it’s time for a new one.

Why Does My Glue Seem Fine One Day and Problematic the Next?

Even if your eyelash glue appeared fine yesterday, it could still cause problems today. Stringy glue can make application tricky and may take longer to dry, which can lead to glue touching nearby lashes and creating unwanted stickiness. This not only compromises the appearance of your lash extensions but can also damage natural lashes. Expired eyelash extension glue often results in poor retention and uneven application, whether you're working with classic or volume lashes.

Risks for Clients

Expired lash glue isn’t just an inconvenience for you—it can also pose risks for your clients. As glue ages, its chemical makeup can change, potentially increasing the risk of sensitivities. Old and expired glue can produce more, even stronger fumes, so to ensure client safety, always use fresh glue.

How to Determine if Your Glue is Still Good

Check the Date of Production (DOP) on your lash extension glue bottle, as this indicates when it was manufactured. Ideally, use the glue within 6 months of this date, and replace it every 4-6 weeks once opened. To keep track of when you opened your glue, attach a piece of tape with the opening date or set a calendar reminder.

Tips for Keeping Your Glue Fresh

While you can’t prolong the life of lash extension glue indefinitely, you can prevent it from deteriorating prematurely. You can store unopened glue in the refrigerator, but never put open glue there—condensation can build up inside the bottle and will cause your glue to cure from the inside. Instead, keep open glue in a lash extension airtight container, away from sources of heat and direct sunlight, ideally at temperatures between 18-22ºC.

A Glue Shaker can also be a great investment, as it quickly mixes the glue for consistent results, eliminating the need for excessive shaking by hand. 

Finally, if you invest in no other glue care accessories, make sure you pick up a digital hygrometer. Not only do these help you to stay on top of your room conditions to ensure your glue is always performing as it should, it will help you to determine whether you’re even using the best lash extension glue for you!