What are LED/UV lash extensions?
LED lashes are a newer technology in lash extension application, offering improved retention and less sensitivity. The curing process is unique, and means that the lashes are instantly waterproof, and much more resistant to oil. LED lashes are similar (in so far as look and feel) to regular lash extensions, except the application method/ and method of adhesive curing differs. The adhesive is cured by a process known as photoinitiation – each adhesive bond cures instantly upon exposure to a special light, for 1-3 seconds. This results in a stronger bond, and lashes can sometimes be applied more quickly and neatly (particularly in the case where the wearer has curled/criss-crossed natural lashes)
Do LED/UV lashes last longer than normal lash extensions?
Yes, in most cases they do – and this is one of the
On average, we see that the extensions will last around one week better than normal extensions, however they do continue to grow out with the natural lashes – therefore infills need to be done at around the same time. Basically, this type of extension set will book better for longer. They are the perfect set to get if you are going away for a holiday somewhere warm, may be swimming lots and unable to get infills, as you’ll get longer out of them.
If you do wait too long between infills, then the lashes will be very grown out, and we will need to remove them before doing a new set to prevent twisting or drooping (which takes more time). So generally, we recommend no more than four weeks between infills.
If you naturally have extremely good retention from regular lash extensions (we would classify this as by 4 weeks, at least 50% of the extensions are remaining, from a properly isolated, well-applied set without excess glue) then you may not benefit from LED lashes as much. Some (lucky!) people do have very dry and porous natural lashes that will hold onto extensions for dear life. So if you find that when you are having an infill, your lash stylist is spending a lot of time removing grown out lashes, and you never seem to lose lashes, you may not find LED has as much benefit to you.
What are the benefits of LED/UV lashes over regular lashes?
There are quite a few benefits to LED lashes, including improved retention (usually an extra week or so between infills) decreased sensitivity (if you have a tendency to get watery/red eyes from the usual application, LED should reduce that significantly), and the lashes being instantly cured and waterproof – so you don’t need to worry about waiting to wet them, or exposure to steam. People who have oily skin and hair, do a lot of swimming/sweaty sports that affect their lashes, or typically struggle with lash retention, LED can improve this a great deal. It’s also great for those with curly or weak/fine lashes, as the instant curing effect means that less adhesive overall is needed to create a very strong bond.
Are LED/UV lashes safe?
We use the Aura Monaco Beamlight system, a German-engineered system which has multiple global safety certifications, in particular, passing the DIN EN 62471 – a standardised test used worldwide to measure the photobiological effects of luminaires on the skin and eye. The exposure time in a session is extremely short, and the type of light used in it is very weak.
The curing technology itself is not new, with these types of lights being used in dentistry and nail art for over 2 decades. It has now been adapted for use in eyelash extensions.
Even though the manufacturer does not actually deem it necessary, we use special black/UV resistant pads and taping during the treatment (under and above the closed eye) for added assurance that there is no exposure to the eye or skin.
If you are allergic to lash extensions, can you have LED/UV lashes?
Regular LED lash adhesive contains the same (or very similar ingredients) than those found in almost all eyelash extensions adhesives, so will often still trigger an allergic reaction if you have had one previously. Although some people with an allergy history can tolerate LED applications, LED does not mean that it is hypo allergenic or that it guarantees that it will be safe for you if you are allergic – as essentially, the ingredients are the same.
The curing process, however, is different and instantaneous, so those who have very sensitive eyes to the fumes of regular lash extension applications (in terms of this causing redness or watering eyes) may find that LED lashes eliminate this.
However, in our ‘SensitiveLED sets’ we do use an alternative adhesive type – this adhesive does not contain cyanoacrylate, which a primary ingredient that can be the frequent cause of allergies. Please note that this adhesive is generally not as long lasting as a regular LED adhesive (it does not set as hard) and we still find that and some people still do have a reaction. However, we had many clients who have been able to have lashes with this type of glue and not others.
SensitiveLED lashes are the best option if you are allergic to lash extensions and want to try a different system that may reduce your risk of allergic reaction.
Please note that we highly recommend a patch test at least 48 hours prior (particularly if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any kind of eyelash extension treatment) and we can’t guarantee an allergic reaction won’t occur, due to the range of individual idiosyncratic reactions. If you have had a confirmed allergic reaction previously to eyelash extensions, we would strongly recommend seeking advice of a medical professional before having the treatment done.
Are LED/UV lashes hypoallergenic?
No, they are not. Like all cosmetic products, they can cause a reaction in certain individuals. However, sensitivity may be reduced, and in the case of the adhesive used in our Sensitive LED sets (which contains different ingredients), some allergic individuals may be able to tolerate it. However, it is not hypoallergenic in that it is still possible to be allergic to it.