Is Waiting 24 Hours to Wet Your Lash Extensions REALLY a Thing of the Past?

Once upon a time in the lash industry, it was gospel to tell your clients to wait 24 hours (and sometimes even up to 48 hours) before getting their lashes wet.   But with advancements in lash adhesive technology, the new consensus is that it’s completely fine to get their lashes wet right after the appointment.

But is this necessarily true?   Let’s dive in and find out.

The Science Behind Lash Adhesives

The active ingredient in lash adhesives is cyanoacrylate, which cures by exposure to moisture from the atmosphere. This process, known as polymerization, can be accelerated by little helpers like lash misters or super bonders.

Early generations of lash adhesives contained less advanced forms of cyanoacrylate, which were weren't as good at drawing in moisture. As a result, the polymerization process took much longer, leaving the adhesive in a semi-liquid state for an extended period. Any exposure to water during this time would weaken the bond between the natural lash and the extension, leading to premature shedding.

Modern adhesives, however, feature advanced forms of cyanoacrylate with lower fumes, increased flexibility, improved heat resistance, and rapid curing times.

So, Does Waiting 24 Hours Do Anything?

With modern adhesives, the polymerization process is about 90% complete within the first 10 minutes. However, a full bond still isn’t achieved until around 24 hours after application . This means that while waiting can still help, it’s not as critical as it used to be. If your clients want to get their lashes wet shortly after their appointment, it probably won’t make a noticeable difference in lash retention.

Should I Tell My Clients to Wait?

The decision is up to you. However, we recommend prioritizing other aspects of lash aftercare over waiting to get lashes wet. Advising your clients to avoid pulling or rubbing their extensions, cleansing them with a lash extension friendly cleanser, and steer clear of steam or heat sources is far more important than the old 24-hour waiting rule.

In summary, while the 24-hour wait may still offer some small benefit to retention, modern adhesives have made it less essential. Focus on the more impactful aftercare tips to ensure your clients enjoy beautiful, long-lasting lash extensions.