Can I Use Eyelash Glue for Nails?

We are often asked, “Can I use eyelash glue for nails?”

Eyelash extension adhesive can be used for many things (here at PLA, we have definitely used it to fix some things in a pinch), but using it in place of nail glue is probably not the best idea.

While lash glue and nail glue both fall under the category of adhesives, they are not made to do the same job. Let’s break down what lash glue is, how it works, and whether or not you can use lash glue as nail glue. (Spoiler: It’s not ideal, we’ll get into why?

TL;DR Can I Use Eyelash Glue for Nails?

Short Answer: Yes, you can use eyelash glue for nails. No, you probably should not. If you’re in a pinch, fine, but don’t make it a habit.

Since eyelash extension adhesive is created specifically for lashes, you may not get the desired results using lash glue as nail glue.

What Does Lash Extension Glue Do?

Lash extension glue plays a critical role in the retention, safety, and overall success of a lash set. It’s not only about holding lashes in place, it’s about creating a secure, long-lasting bond that remains flexible and comfortable for the client. Unlike everyday adhesives, lash adhesive is specially formulated to work in high-humidity and sensitive areas like the lash line, where precision and performance matter.

Before answering the question, Can I Use Eyelash Glue for Nails, let’s get into the basics of lash glue, and what they’re made of.

Different Types of Lash Glue

• Strip Lash Glue - Made for temporary wear (one day) and easy removal.

• Lash Extension Adhesive - Stronger and cyanoacrylate based, designed for professional use only. Within this category, there is also clear vs black lash glue. If you were to use lash glue as nail glue, we'd recommend clear. 

• Lash Cluster Glue - Cyanoacrylate-free, latex-free, and specifically designed for cluster lashes. When paired with a sealant, can last up to a week and is waterproof. For more on this, see lash bond vs lash glue.

For the purpose of this blog, we’ll be discussing lash extension adhesive.

Purpose and Composition of Lash Glue

Lash extension glue is formulated specifically adhering individual eyelash extensions to natural lashes to the lash line. The glue must be lightweight, flexible, quick drying and safe to use around the eyes.

Almost all lash extension adhesives have cyanoacrylate as one of the main eyelash glue ingredients, which is a fast drying chemical that creates a strong, but thin bond.

Can I Use Eyelash Glue for Nails?

If you are asking, can i use eyelash glue for nails? Technically speaking, yes you can.

Should you, though? Maybe not.

Since lash glue is designed for, well, lashes, it isn’t necessarily designed to bond with the harder, less porous surface of natural nail plates or artificial nails. So, using eyelash glue for nails might stick, when you’re in a pinch, but you might not have the same results.

Why Might One Use Lash Glue for Nails in the First Place?

In most cases, people reach for lash glue out of convenience or desperation.

Imagine this — you’re a lash artist and your press on nail popped off while in your studio. You don’t have your nail glue readily available, but you do have your lash glue sitting in front of you. Your initial thought would probably be to just use your lash glue.

Other instances would be travelling without your nail kit or trying to apply press ons.

Is Lash Glue and Nail Glue the Same?

No, they are not the same, even though they have similar ingredients.

While both lash glue and nail glue typically contain cyanoacrylate, they have different formulations and concentrations of ingredients to serve different purposes.

While eyelash glue is designed to be safer for the eye area, nail glue is designed to be stronger, made to withstand daily wear and tear on your nails for a much longer duration.

Will Lash Glue Work On Nails?

In a technical matter, using eyelash glue for nails will work, and likely do a pretty good job of keeping your nails on, but it may not have the same results.

Is Using Lash Glue as Nail Glue Safe?

Under salon grade standards, as a beauty professional, using lash glue as nail glue would be considered unsafe and not compliant.

For short term use, and in a pinch, it’s not likely to cause serious harm, but there can be some risks.

Allergic reactions or contact dermatitis may occur, especially considering lash glue is not meant for use on nails or hands. Also, the amount of glue you would use on a lash line is much less concentrated than it would be on a finger nail. On each lash you’d use a microbead, but to attach a nail, you might need a larger dot. Since attaching lashes is very precise, the adhesive typically doesn’t and should not touch the skin, but when attaching nails, there is usually a bigger glob, which can result in flooding and touching the skin.

Using lash glue as nail glue, though, is much safer than using nail glue as lash glue, which is extremely dangerous, and should not be done under any circumstances.

Is There a Better Alternative to Nail Glue Than Lash Glue?

The most obvious answer to this question is, yes, nail glue.

If you’re out of nail glue, though, nail adhesive tabs or soft gel extension adhesives are better temporary alternatives.

How to Use Eyelash Glue for Nails if You Have No Other Option

Are you still determined to use eyelash glue for nails? Here are some tips to use it as safely and as effectively as possible.

• Work on clean, dry, press on nails & natural nails

• Apply a small amount of glue

• Press and hold for 15-30 seconds to allow the glue to set

• Remove gently – don’t rip off.

Again, this method is not recommended for extended wear or high-impact activities.

Stock Up On All the Essentials for Lashes and Nails at PLA Pro!

Whether you’re here because you are a lash artist or a nail artist, PLA has the high-performance products you need. From professional nail supplies to eyelash extension supplies, our collections are curated for artists who expect quality, reliability and results.

Running low on nail supplies? We’ve got you. Start by checking out our nail lacquer and nail dip collections!

Closing Thoughts on Using Eyelash Glue for Nails

While the question can i use eyelash glue for nails has kind of a vague answer, because yes you can, but maybe you should not.

Of course, we take adhesives seriously, because we know a reliable bond makes or breaks a set, so while our adhesive is great for lash sets, it’s not necessarily for nails.