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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!
36 Episodes
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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.
In this special episode, Carly and Olivia are joined by optometrists Dr. Gurleen Dhanoa and Dr. Aysha Chaudhry from @eyestheticsofficial for an in-depth conversation about ocular health, lash extensions, and why hypochlorous acid (HOCl) deserves a place in every lash artist’s routine!
We discuss how they became involved in the lash industry, what healthy lash extensions and proper ocular hygiene look like from an eye doctor’s perspective, and the best practices they wish more lash artists would follow. The episode then dives into all things HOCl: what it is, where it comes from, how it can benefit both lash artists and clients, and how to properly store and apply it. They also cover practical topics like HOCl concentration, product shelf life, packaging differences, client aftercare, and even whether artists should consider charging for HOCl treatments as an add-on or just include it in every service.
If you’ve ever wondered how to elevate your lash services with medical-grade eye care practices, this episode is packed with expert insights you won’t want to miss.
We’re back with Part 2 of our LED UV Lash Extensions Q&A!
In this episode of Lash Science, Carly and Olivia break down the most searched—and most misunderstood—questions about light-cured lash systems:
* Are LED UV adhesives better for sensitive or allergic clients?
* Does light curing really lower irritation?
* Is the light safe for eyes or does it cause damage over time?
* Should lash artists worry about exposure from the lamp?
* Is investing in LED UV systems worth it for your business?
* Just hype or the future of lashing?
We’re cutting through the confusion and giving you real, science-backed answers.
If you have more questions, drop them in the comments below and we will save them for next time!
In this episode of Lash Science, Carly and Olivia tackle your most Googled, TikTok’d, Reddit’d questions about LED UV lash extensions. This is Part 1 of our deep-dive Q&A series—and we’re covering the basics and the juicy stuff:
How do LED/UV lash systems actually work?
What's the difference between LED and UV light?
Do they really improve retention?
Can you get them wet right away?
What’s the biggest mistake beginners make with light curing?
Is it actually worth it?
We’re busting myths, sharing science-backed facts, and giving you honest answers to help you decide if light curing is right for your lash biz.
Tune in and tag us with your questions for Part 2!
The lash industry is facing a growing problem: more and more clients are developing sensitivities, and it's not just bad luck—it's a full-blown epidemic...
In this episode, we dive into the rising rates of irritation and allergic reactions, why this issue is being brushed under the rug, and what it means for the future of our services (and our income).
We also introduce the BioComfort™ Method—a step-by-step, optometrist-approved approach designed to reduce sensitization risks, protect the ocular surface, and help lash artists provide a safer, longer-lasting lash experience. These are actionable steps that lash artists can integrate into their service routine right now.
Plus: we’re officially launching the online BioComfort™ Certification course in early July! If you want to lead the industry in client care, this is your next move.
Tune in now. Your clients (and your career) will thank you.
Think you know how to patch test for lash extensions? Think again. In this episode, we're breaking down the correct way to perform a patch test — using one eye only, applying 10–15 lashes in a single section, and replicating your full service exactly — whether you’re using traditional or light-cured adhesive.
We explain why this method matters, what subtle symptoms to watch for, and how even the smallest reaction can signal something bigger. You’ll also learn what to do if your client reacts, and how patch testing fits into a responsible lash artist’s routine — especially in today’s world of rising sensitivities.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about client safety, longevity, and lashing with integrity — no matter your adhesive type.
Let’s stop guessing and start testing — properly.
In this episode, we’re diving into the do’s and don’ts of marketing light-cured lash services on social media — and let’s just say, some of y’all are making content for lash techs instead of clients.
We’ll talk about:
- Why client-friendly language is everything
- How to explain light curing without sounding like a chemist
- Mistakes that scare clients away (yes, even if your lash set is stunning)
- How to position LED UV lash services as a luxe, safe, and smart upgrade
- What not to say when you're trying to build trust online
If you offer light-cured lashes or are thinking about introducing them, this is a must-listen. Let’s make sure your content educates, attracts, and actually gets you booked!
Announcements:
1. Upcoming Lash Apothecary Masterclasses (June 21-22 DFW) (August 9-10 Vegas) code: LASHSCIENCEPOD for 15% off enrollment
2. Opal Educator Course December 6-8 DFW
3. LashCON October 11-13! Use code ANNE100 for $100 off your ticket!
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