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Join Carly and Olivia, two passionate lash educators, as they dive into the science behind all things in the lash industry!
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, they break down the latest techniques, industry trends, and everything you need to know to perfect your lash game!
Tune in for expert insights, tips, some sass, and a deeper understanding of the art and science behind lash extensions!
42 Episodes
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In this episode, Carly and Olivia are diving deep into the history of cyanoacrylate (the main ingredient in lash adhesives) and are asking one big question…
How did this chemistry end up being used in the beauty industry… and on the eyes??!
We’re going all the way back to the origins of cyanoacrylate, from its accidental discovery to its early uses in medical and industrial settings, and tracing how it eventually made its way into lash extension services.
Let’s just say… we put our tin foil hats on for this one!
This episode explores the timeline, the gaps, and the “how did we get here?” moments that most people in the industry have never questioned.
💜 Topics Covered:
The discovery of cyanoacrylate
Early uses (medical, industrial, and beyond)
How it transitioned into beauty + lash applications
Why this chemistry became the industry standard
The questions no one is asking about lash adhesive origins
If you’ve ever wondered why we use what we use in lash extensions, this episode is for you!
In this special behind-the-scenes episode, Carly and Olivia are joined by Mama Apothecary in New Jersey for a real, unfiltered look at our Opal Free Certification classes!!
We’re pulling back the curtain on what went right, what didn’t, and the hurdles we faced during our first few trainings—because transparency matters, and growth is part of building something better for this industry.
After that, we walk you through exactly what to expect if you sign up for Opal Free Certification. From day one to the final day, we break down the structure, curriculum, and overall experience so you know exactly what you're stepping into.
Whether you're already enrolled or just curious about the training, this episode gives you a full inside look at what makes this certification different.
💜 Topics Covered:
Behind the scenes of our first Opal Free classes
Challenges we faced + how we improved
Full breakdown of the Opal Free Certification experience
What each day of training includes
Who this course is for
If you're serious about becoming an allergy-conscious lash artist, this is where it starts!
https://www.lashapothecary.com/collections/opal-free-collection/products/in-person-classes
In this episode, we’re doing something a little different.
Instead of diving into a single scientific topic, we’re sitting down for a candid conversation about the things in the lash industry that drive us crazy... from questionable trends and bad habits to the misinformation that keeps circulating online!!
The lash industry is constantly evolving, but not every trend is a good one. This episode is an honest conversation about where we think the industry is getting it wrong — and where it can do better.
In Part 2, we go deeper into the science and real-world application of LED UV lash lamp safety.
We break down the difference between accredited and non-accredited labs, explain what NIST traceability means in the context of testing, and take a closer look at what each IEC 62471 risk group actually represents outside of a technical report.
Why do some lamps require shields, warnings, or black eye pads while others don’t? What would cause a lash lamp to fall into Risk Group 2 and does that automatically make it unsafe?
This episode focuses on understanding hazard vs. real-world exposure, helping lash artists interpret classifications without fear or confusion.
In Part 2, we discuss:
Accredited labs vs. non-accredited testing
NIST-traceable measurements explained
A deeper breakdown of IEC 62471 risk groups
Real-world examples of exposure scenarios
Why some lamps require additional protections
Are Risk Group 2 lamps risky or just misunderstood?
Our goal is to give you the knowledge to evaluate safety claims with confidence and clarity.
https://www.intertek.com/blog/2024/09-17-photobiological-compliance-for-medical-devices/
https://webstore.iec.ch/en/publication/7076
In Part 1 of this two-episode deep dive, we’re laying the foundation for understanding LED UV lash lamp safety and what real testing actually looks like behind the scenes!
What is IEC 62471, and why does it exist? What are photobiological safety tests measuring, and how do risk groups work? We walk through the basics of how lamps are evaluated, explain the different risk group categories, and share why Lash Apothecary chose to pursue independent third-party testing for the Opal lamp.
This episode is all about building context so lash artists can understand the language used around safety claims and certifications.
In Part 1, we cover:
What IEC 62471 is and what it evaluates
The purpose of photobiological safety testing
A beginner-friendly overview of risk groups
Why third-party testing matters
How safety standards apply to LED UV lash lamps
If you’ve ever wondered what those classifications actually mean, or why some brands talk about testing while others don’t... this is where to start!
https://www.intertek.com/blog/2024/09-17-photobiological-compliance-for-medical-devices/
https://webstore.iec.ch/en/publication/7076
In Part 2, we go deeper into what those “formaldehyde fumes” actually mean for your body — and why this conversation is occupational health literacy, not fear marketing.
We cover:
the full list of common symptoms artists and clients experience
how repeated exposure can sensitize the body, leading to stronger reactions over time
does exposure cause allergic contact dermatitis, respiratory sensitization, and irritant responses
and we fact-check a popular Instagram carousel that downplays the risks — line by line
This one is bold, honest, and very spicy!!🌶️🔥
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK612582/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5225186/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35674514/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22134404/
https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/hair-smoothing-products-release-formaldehyde-when-heated
Are the “formaldehyde fumes” from lash adhesive actually harmless… or are we closer to the danger zone than the industry wants to admit?
In Part 1, we break down:
the difference between fumes, gases, and vapors (and which one formaldehyde actually is)
how formaldehyde behaves in the lash room (does it linger? dissolve into skin?)
the World Health Organization’s indoor air guideline for formaldehyde exposure
how Lash Apothecary’s traditional adhesives measure up to that guideline
and why comparisons to fruit, vegetables, or what your body naturally produces are not a relevant comparison to breathing formaldehyde gas
This episode sets the science foundation — and yes, it gets spicy!🌶️
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK612582/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5225186/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35674514/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22134404/
https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/hair-smoothing-products-release-formaldehyde-when-heated
Lash artists use tape every single day… but how many of us actually know what it’s made of?
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of lash tapes— micropore tape, silicone tape, medical tapes, and yes… the wildly popular foam tape. We break down what these products are truly composed of and why the marketing doesn’t always tell the full story.
We also review a surprising PubMed clinical study on foam tape that challenged a lot of common assumptions in the lash industry. The results were eye-opening and raise important questions about irritation, sensitivity, and long-term client comfort!!
This is one of those “unsexy but essential” topics that can seriously change how you approach your lash services. If you’ve ever wondered why certain tapes cause redness, why some feel more irritating than others, or whether foam tape is really the gentle hero product it’s claimed to be... this episode is for you!
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38462426/
In this episode, we explore the question: is there a real connection between cold weather and lash allergies?
We walk through a peer-reviewed PubMed study together (reading and interpreting the abstract in real time) and break down what it reveals about how cold, dry environments impact the skin barrier — especially the delicate eyelid area.
We then connect that science to what lash artists see in the treatment room: seasonal increases in irritation, sensitivities, and allergic-type reactions — and why a compromised eyelid skin barrier can increase a client’s risk of reacting to products they previously tolerated.
If you’re a lash artist who wants to understand the why behind seasonal reactions (and not just how to manage them), this episode will give you a clearer, evidence-based framework for protecting your clients’ skin, eyes, and long-term lash health.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26449379/
In this episode, we reflect on our 2025, share our intentions and goals for 2026, and let the conversation wander into a few unexpected (and spicy) places along the way. It’s a casual check-in on growth, direction, and what’s next for us — both personally and professionally.
If you have any questions, you can email us at carly@lashapothecary.com or olivia@lashapothecary.com.
For in-person training information, head to lashapothecary.com and click on the Education tab.
Go behind the booth with the Lash Apothecary team as we share the real, unfiltered story of what it was like being a small brand stepping onto a big stage as a Diamond Sponsor at LashCon — from the chaos to the breakthroughs, and the unforgettable moments we introduced Opal Free to the world!
In this episode, we’re officially introducing Opal Free — the world’s first acrylate-free, plant-based lash adhesive.
We’re taking you behind the scenes of our journey creating this groundbreaking formula: from the inspiration and research to the testing, certifications, and what makes this adhesive so revolutionary for lash artists and clients alike.
You’ll learn:
What makes Opal Free different from every other lash adhesive on the market
Why it’s fully plant-based, optometrist-reviewed, and certified for client safety
How and why training is required — and why that’s actually a good thing for your business
Details about the upcoming 2026 Opal Free Masterclasses across the US, London, and Australia
How becoming a Certified Opal Free Lash Professional can elevate your career, help you work with medical professionals, and allow you to charge premium prices
This isn’t just a new product — it’s the start of a new generation of lash artists who value science, safety, and sustainability.
Tune in to learn what makes Opal Free the future of lash technology!
LashCon 2025 is almost here — and Lash Apothecary is coming in BIG this year. In this episode, Carly and Olivia give you the full breakdown of what to expect from Lash Apothecary at this year’s event. We’re talking booth details, class times, product launches, and everything happening inside our sponsor suite.
Whether you’re attending LashCon for the first time or you’re a returning pro, this episode will help you plan your weekend and make sure you don’t miss a thing — from new launches to live demos and exclusive education opportunities!!
SEE YOU THERE!
In this special episode, the full Lash Apothecary team—Curtis, Olivia, Anne, and Carly—come together to share the untold story of how Lash Apothecary began and how the Opal LED UV Lash System came to life.
We dive into:
The personal journeys that led each of us together to make Lash Apothecary what it is now
The series of events that led to the idea for the Opal system
The challenges of creating something brand new for lash artists
How Lash Apothecary is here to change the industry for the better
Whether you’re a lash artist curious about light-curing technology, or just want to hear the behind-the-scenes of building a brand from scratch, this episode will give you an inside look at the heart of Lash Apothecary!!
The EU (European Union) has officially banned TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) in all cosmetic products starting September 1, 2025. This includes gel nail polish and LED UV lash adhesives — but why did this happen, what does it mean for beauty professionals, and should you be worried?
In this episode, we break down:
What TPO is and how it’s used as a photo initiator in beauty products
Why it was originally considered safe, and what changed after rat studies in 2021
The difference between cosmetic use (ban) and dental use (still allowed)
How much TPO was actually given to test animals (hint: way more than real salon exposure)
What this means for nail techs, lash artists, and salon owners — including what to do with old stock
The rise of “TPO-free” products and whether TPO-L is a safe replacement
This is not just a nail industry issue — it affects all cosmetic professionals, including lash artists using LED UV curing systems.
If you’re a beauty pro trying to make sense of the headlines (New York Post, People, Allure, The Times), this episode gives you the science, context, and business impact you need to stay ahead!!
Common Names on MSDS/SDS Sheets:
Diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide
CAS #75980-60-8
EC/EINECS #278-355-8
Is LED UV lash glue the same as gel nail polish? A lot of lash artists wonder if light-cured adhesives are just like UV resin or gel polish — and today we’re breaking it all down.
In this episode, we dive into:
✨ What resin really means in chemistry
✨ The big ingredient differences between gel nail polishes and LED lash adhesives
✨ How safety and biocompatibility set lash adhesives apart
Whether you’ve ever questioned if lash glue is “just like gel polish” or you’ve seen UV resin crafting products and wondered how they compare — this episode clears up the confusion once and for all.
Are oils really ruining your retention — or have we all been lied to?
In this episode of Lash Science, Carly and Olivia are joined by cosmetic chemist, Michael Becker, to finally get to the bottom of one of the most misunderstood topics in lash care: OIL.
We cover everything from:
How oils actually interact with lash adhesives (traditional and light-cured)
Which oils are actually a problem… and which ones are totally fine
Whether light-cured adhesives hold up better against oil-based products
Common myths about "oil-free" aftercare
Why not all cleansers and balms are created equal
This is the episode every lash artist and educator needs to hear!
In this episode of Lash Science, we’re diving deep into the Opal LED UV Lash System from Lash Apothecary — the game-changing technology that’s rewriting the rules of lash extensions.
We break down how the Opal light is built, the rigorous safety measures behind it, and why Lash Apothecary goes above and beyond to ensure it’s not just safe... but the safest option on the market!!!
Then we get into the star of the show: the Opal Adhesive. We discuss the chemical formulation, why each ingredient was chosen, and how it delivers:
Better retention that stands the test of time
A truly hypoallergenic formula that supports sensitive clients
300x less fumes for a healthier work environment
Freedom from humidity and temperature stress so you can focus on artistry, not your glue timer
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned lash artist, Opal changes the way you work; giving you the time, control, and confidence to create your best sets ever.
Listen now to learn how Opal will transform your lash career, your client experience, and your results.
Is UV light a public health threat… or have we been scared into sunlight phobia?
In this episode, we dive into the "Great Solar Debate", breaking down how sunburns, tanning, and skin cancer actually happen, and whether the lash industry (and the world) have misunderstood UV exposure altogether.
We cover what UVA and UVB really do to your skin, how the electromagnetic spectrum plays a role, and the difference between damage, and disease. We also talk about how much sun exposure is actually healthy, and why a little UV isn’t just safe—it’s essential!!!!
Then, we zoom in on LED UV lash lamps, like Opal, and explain exactly why they cannot cause sunburns, tans, premature aging, or cancer—despite the fear-mongering going around the lash industry...........
What if UV wasn’t the villain, it was just misunderstood? Listen now to find out.
In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most overlooked but essential tools in lash artistry: saline solution!!
We break down the differences between saline, contact solution, and multi-purpose solution, and explain why only saline belongs in your lash services. From protecting the delicate tear film to reducing irritation, preventing sensitivities, and boosting retention, we cover it all.
We also tackle common myths in the lash industry, like whether saline makes lashes crunchy, ruins retention, or is “just expensive water” — and explain why micellar water or contact solution are NOT safe alternatives.
By the end of this episode, you’ll understand how saline can elevate your lash services, protect client eye health, and position you as an advanced, health-conscious artist!
Learn how to level up your lash game with science-backed insights and practical tips that your clients (and their eyes) will thank you for.
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