Why is California banning do-it-yourself lash extension adhesive? Professionals reveal security risks
In a high-end beauty salon in Los Angeles, California, Emily was lying on the beauty bed, anxiously looking at the lash extension adhesive in the beautician's hand. She originally wanted to graft it herself after purchasing it online, but fortunately she consulted a professional.
"I almost bought the so-called 'home DIY' eyelash extension glue from the Internet. Fortunately, I came here." Emily said with emotion.
Beautician Lisa nodded: "Using lash extension adhesive on your own is extremely risky. Just last week I handled a case where a client had severe allergies due to self-grafting."
01 Learn about lash extension adhesive
In California, with the booming beauty industry, lash extension adhesive has become a popular service item in many beauty salons.
This professional adhesive is mainly used to accurately adhere artificial eyelashes to natural eyelashes to achieve the beauty effect of lengthening and thickening.
Professional lash extension adhesive used in regular beauty salons usually undergoes strict quality testing, and its ingredients and formulas need to comply with California's increasingly stringent beauty product safety standards.
This is very different from DIY products that consumers buy in ordinary markets or online.
The core function of eyelash extension glue is to strike a balance between safety and stickiness.
Not only does it need to provide enough adhesion to maintain the eyelash extension effect, but it must also ensure that use in the sensitive eye area does not cause irritation or allergic reactions.
In California, professional eyelash extensions typically cost between $50-$500, with results lasting 1-3 months before requiring repeat treatments.
02 The huge gap between professional use and self-operation
Why are beauty experts unanimously opposed to consumers using lash extension adhesive on their own? This is not an industry monopoly, but is based on real safety considerations.
Professional beauticians have undergone rigorous training and mastered precise pasting techniques and safe operating practices.
They use professional tools - tweezers, release paper, and hypoallergenic tape to ensure that the glue only contacts the false eyelashes during the operation and does not endanger the eyes or skin.
"The most common mistake when using lash extension adhesive yourself is improper control of the amount," said Sarah, a Beverly Hills beauty expert. "Excessive use can cause the glue to spread to areas it should not touch, causing irritation and even chemical damage."
In a professional operation, the beautician will carefully isolate the upper and lower eyelashes and use tape to lift the eyelids to fully expose the root of the eyelashes. Only then can the false eyelashes be accurately glued to the real eyelashes to avoid contact with the skin.
However, consumers do it by themselves at home, lacking professional tools and technology, and the risk increases exponentially.
03 The dangerous consequences of doing eyelash extensions yourself
Using lash extension adhesive on your own can come with a range of health risks, some of which are quite serious.
Corneal damage is one of the most concerning risks. Dr. Amy Zhang, an ophthalmologist at Case Medical Center at University Hospitals in Cleveland, clearly stated: "If adhesive products enter the cornea, it can cause irritation and even long-term damage."
These glues may contain irritating ingredients such as formaldehyde, which can have disastrous consequences if they come into contact with sensitive areas of the eyes.
The risk of infection cannot be ignored either. Grafted eyelashes are mostly made of animal hair or chemical synthetic fibers. If the source of the product is unknown or improperly stored, it is easy to carry bacteria and parasites, leading to eye infections.
In severe cases, it may cause corneal inflammation, redness and swelling.
Allergic reactions are also a common problem. The chemical components in lash extension adhesive may cause allergies in some people, causing eyelid swelling, itching and other discomforts.
"If the body is sensitive to the adhesive, it can cause swelling of the eyelids," professionals warn. "There are usually no strict standards for the ingredients of glue and false eyelash remover."
Even more concerning is the risk of eyelash loss. "When the hair follicle is under constant stress, it can't grow properly," explains Lisa, a professional beautician.
If some customers continue to wear false eyelashes improperly, they may damage their natural eyelashes, causing them to fall out or even stop growing.
04 California related regulations and consumer protection
California has always been at the forefront of consumer protection, and it’s no exception when it comes to beauty product safety.
Recently, the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) has strengthened supervision of potentially harmful ingredients in beauty products and plans to list beauty products containing specific chemical substances as key regulatory targets.
While there is currently no ban specifically targeting lash extension adhesive, California has increasingly tightened restrictions on ingredients such as formaldehyde in cosmetics.
In August 2025, Washington State officially banned the sale of cosmetics containing formaldehyde-releasing substances, which is likely to be a precursor to California's follow-up.
The California Cosmetology Licensing Board also strictly stipulates that only licensed beauticians can provide eyelash extension services. Consumers who purchase professional materials for home use may violate relevant regulations.
05 Frequently Asked Questions for California Residents
Q: What are the requirements for purchasing professional lash extension adhesive in California?
A: In California, professional eyelash extension glue is usually only available to licensed beauticians. What ordinary consumers can buy on the market are mostly home DIY versions, whose stickiness and safety standards are far lower than professional products.
Q: What should California residents do if they experience discomfort after self-implanted eyelashes?
A: Seek medical help immediately and contact the California Cosmetology Licensing Board to report the situation. Retain product packaging and proof of purchase and file a complaint with the California Department of Consumer Affairs if necessary.
Q: What are the specific regulations regarding eyelash extension services in California?
A: California requires beauticians who provide eyelash extensions to hold a valid license, use certified products and equipment, and follow strict hygiene standards. Consumers should check the beautician’s qualifications when choosing services to ensure safety.
Q: How can I identify a legal eyelash extension service provider in California?
Answer: Regular institutions will publicize their beauty licenses, use products with complete packaging and clear labels, and inform customers of the operating procedures and potential risks in detail. Avoid choosing a service provider that has unusually low prices or cannot provide proof of qualifications.
06 Key differences between professional services and home DIY
There are many significant differences between professional eyelash extension services and at-home DIY eyelash extensions, and understanding these differences can help consumers make safe choices.
Technical level: Professional beauticians master the "one-on-one" technology to ensure that each false eyelash only contacts the corresponding real eyelash, without damaging the hair follicles or affecting the natural growth cycle. Doing it yourself often causes multiple eyelashes to stick together, affecting the health of the eyelashes.
Material quality: The glue used by professional institutions has been strictly tested, and its composition and volatility are controlled within safe limits. Home DIY products sold online may use ingredients that are not suitable for direct contact with the skin in order to enhance the stickiness and extend the durability.
Safety backup: Professional beauty salons are equipped with necessary first aid equipment and products so that they can handle accidents in a timely manner. The home environment is completely lacking these safety nets.
Sanitary conditions: Professional institutions follow strict disinfection procedures, and all tools will be thoroughly disinfected before use to prevent cross-infection. It is difficult for the home environment to meet the same hygiene standards.
07 How to get ideal eyelashes safely
Since applying lash extension adhesive on your own carries many risks, how can California residents safely achieve the desired eyelash results?
Choosing a reputable professional agency is a critical first step. "If you decide to get eyelash extensions, be sure to do your homework. Always visit a reputable beauty salon and check that the eyelash extension equipment is of good quality and certified," advises health medical editor Dr. Rohini Rajapaksa.
It is also important to seek professional advice. Especially for consumers who are trying eyelash extensions for the first time, it is recommended to consult a professional beautician first and choose the most suitable solution based on their own eyelash conditions and needs.
Understanding product ingredients can help consumers make more informed choices. Ask your beautician about the ingredients in the glue used and avoid products that contain potential irritants like formaldehyde.
Regular maintenance and proper care not only prolongs results but also ensures safety. Try not to rinse your eyelashes with water on the day after treatment, avoid pulling and rubbing your eyelashes, and avoid sauna, steaming and swimming within a week.
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In a well-known beauty salon in San Francisco, Jennifer, who had just finished professional eyelash extensions, looked at herself in the mirror and smiled with satisfaction. "I once thought about buying glue and making it at home, but now I know there is such a big difference. Not only does the professional one have a more natural effect, but the most important thing is that it is safe and secure."
Maria, the director of the beauty salon, stood aside and added: "True beauty should not come at the expense of health. Understanding the characteristics of products and choosing professional services is the attitude towards being responsible for yourself."
Walking out of the beauty salon, Jennifer blinked confidently. Under the thick and curled eyelashes, there was a pair of bright, safe and worry-free eyes.
