Patch Testing With Lash Glue - The Truth, The Law & Why It Matters
In the lash world, patch testing is one of those things that often gets brushed off or misunderstood, but it’s a vital part of keeping our clients safe and our businesses protected. Whether you’re new to lashing, been in the game for years, or you’re a client thinking about getting lashes, knowing why patch testing matters is key and for business owners it’s essential to running your business with integrity and professionalism.
What Is a Patch Test?
A patch test is where you apply a small amount of lash adhesive to the natural lashes at least 48 hours before a full set. It gives us an important insight as to whether the client is going to react to the lash glue. It doesn’t guarantee there won’t be a reaction later, but it’s about reducing risk, showing that you’ve done your due diligence and promoting best practice within your business. Doing a patch test shows that you take your clients’ safety seriously, and if anything ever went wrong, it shows your insurance provider that you did everything you could to protect the client. That’s a big deal when it comes to liability and professionalism.
The Legal Bit and What You Need to Know
The rules around patch testing can vary depending on where you’re based in the world. But in the UK, most insurance companies require it. If you don’t patch test and something goes wrong, you may discover your insurer removes your cover even if the client has signed a disclaimer/waiver. Waivers and disclaimers do NOT protect you. In fact, A waiver can demonstrate that you knew there was a risk, and if you knew, then why didn’t you test? Also, some manufacturers list patch testing as a requirement. If you ignore manufacturer’s instructions, and something happens it may be seen as negligence.
Patch testing is 100% a best practice and something we should all be doing as standard.
Common Myths (Let’s Clear Them Up) 
“They’ve had lashes before, they don’t need a test.” 
Not true. Clients can develop sensitivities over time, even if they’ve had lashes for years. Cyanoacrylate (the glue ingredient) and other additives can cause new reactions out of the blue. “Patch tests don’t prove anything anyway.” It’s true they’re not guaranteed, but they reduce risk massively. They also give you a paper trail to prove you’ve acted responsibly. “A waiver covers me.” No! If your insurance requires patch testing and you skip it, a waiver won’t save you or your business financially or reputationally.
Top tip: Always note down what glue you used, the batch number, and the date you opened it. Wait 48 hours, get signed consent, and take before/after pics for your records.
Why It Matters Patch testing isn’t about box ticking it’s about doing the right thing. It shows:
• You care about your client’s health and wellbeing
• You’re up to date with best practices
• You take your business seriously
• You’ve got strong professional ethics
At Lustrelash and Lashphoria, we’re all about raising standards in the lash industry. We want to see more lash techs working smart, working safe, and keeping this industry as professional as it should be. A patch test might seem like a small thing, but it could save you a lot of stress, and even save your business. As a brand, we want to push the path forward to raising our standards…
* Do the test
* Keep the trust
* Protect your client, protect yourself, and protect the industry
Thanks for reading
Nina Attfield
Owner – LusterLash Group
