**Why Hydroquinone Should Not Be Used in Lash Glues**
When it comes to eyelash extensions, safety and quality are crucial. This is especially true for lash glues, which are applied near the sensitive areas around the eyes. Unfortunately, some manufacturers have used Hydroquinone, or HQ, as a stabiliser in lash glues—but this comes with significant risks. At Ladybug Lashes, we’ve taken a different route by completely removing HQ from our formulations and opting for a safer alternative: Butylated Hydroxyanisole, or BHA. As a UK-based supplier who works closely with an ISO-certified facility, we ensure our lash glues are safe and high-performing. In this blog, we will discuss why Hydroquinone should not be used in lash glues, the international regulations surrounding it, and why BHA-based glues are the safer choice.
What is Hydroquinone and Why is it Used?
Hydroquinone is a chemical widely used to prevent lash glues from breaking down too quickly. Although this is beneficial for stability, it poses several health, regulatory, and environmental concerns, especially considering how close the products are to the eyes.
The Risks of Using Hydroquinone
1. Health Concerns: Hydroquinone can irritate the skin and eyes, causing redness, inflammation, and itching. Even small amounts in lash glues can lead to allergic reactions, particularly for those with sensitive eyes. Some studies even raise alarm about potential cancer risks from long-term exposure to Hydroquinone.
2. Client Sensitivity: Many people think cyanoacrylate—the main adhesive in lash glues—is the cause of irritation; however, research shows that Hydroquinone often plays a critical role. It can worsen the adverse effects triggered by cyanoacrylate fumes and improper application. By improving lash glue formulations to eliminate HQ, we can reduce sensitivity and still deliver excellent adhesive performance.
3. Regulatory Issues: Hydroquinone is banned in cosmetics within the UK and EU due to strict safety regulations. While it is still used in some products in the U.S., it is highly regulated by the FDA, especially in skin-lightening products.
4. Environmental Impact: Hydroquinone is also dangerous to the environment, contaminating water sources and harming aquatic ecosystems, which is a concern for those committed to sustainability which we are at Ladybug Lashes.
Why Choose BHA Instead?
At Ladybug Lashes, we've committed to removing Hydroquinone from our lash glues altogether. After two years of research and the development of safer formulations, we use BHA as a stabiliser. BHA is approved in cosmetics across multiple global regulatory bodies. It effectively stabilises lash glue while being gentler on skin and eyes, significantly reducing the possibility of irritation or allergic reactions.
Going Above and Beyond in Safety
While lash glues don’t need to meet full cosmetic standards, we ensure ours do. This includes intensive dermatological and ophthalmological testing for safety, alongside transparent ingredient listings. Our compliance with global regulations means our products maintain the highest industry standards.
Aiming for Global Compliance and Quality
Trusted by lash professionals worldwide, our lash glues set new benchmarks in safety and quality.
Make the Safe Switch
Hydroquinone has no place in today’s eyelash adhesives. At Ladybug Lashes, we are proud to lead the industry with our BHA-stabilised lash glues, focusing on safety, client satisfaction, and overall effectiveness.
If you're looking to give your clients a safe, HQ-free beauty experience, explore our innovative range today. Together, let's champion a safer, more responsible beauty industry.
