Course: UV lamp and UV glue lash course · Module 2 of 5
UV lash lamp safety is the most important part of this course. You are working with ultraviolet light a few centimetres from a pair of closed eyes, using an adhesive that contains acrylates. In this module you will see what the World Health Organization, a national radiation safety authority and the dermatology literature say about the risks, how to protect your client and yourself, which contraindications manufacturers list and what to do if something goes wrong. This content does not replace medical advice.
Module objectives
- Understand the effects of UV radiation on the eye according to health authorities.
- Understand photobiological risk groups (IEC/EN 62471) and why you should ask for your lamp’s test report.
- Follow an eye protection protocol for both client and technician.
- Recognise the contraindications and precautions that manufacturers list.
- Understand acrylate allergy and how to reduce exposure.
What light these lamps emit and why it matters
Lash lamps work in the ultraviolet A (UVA) range, many at 385–400 nm according to manufacturers’ specifications cited by O’Malley and Feighery (Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2024). Some also offer a white light of around 405 nm, on the border with visible violet-blue light (Starry Lashes).
The WHO describes the effects of UV radiation on the eye as follows:
- Acute effects: photokeratitis and photoconjunctivitis (inflammation of the cornea and the conjunctiva). They are painful, usually reversible and easily prevented with protective eyewear.
- Chronic effects: cataract, pterygium and cancers in and around the eye. UV exposure may also be involved in age-related macular degeneration.
Finland’s Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) makes the same point in the lash context: UV radiation can cause corneal inflammation and cataracts.
UV lash lamp safety: what STUK measured
In 2024 STUK published the results of measuring six lash extension lamps bought online. The key findings for your work:
- Radiation was measured at the working distance given in each device’s instructions and, additionally, at 20 cm in line with EN 62471:2008.
- The classification is based on the UV hazard to the unprotected eye.
- Three of the six lamps fell into the highest risk group, RG3; the rest were in lower groups.
- For the most powerful device, the exposure limit would be exceeded in just 15 seconds if the light were directed straight into the eyes from 20 cm.
- The devices’ technical data proved incomplete or implausible in every case.
- Responsibility for the safe use of radiation lies with the provider of the cosmetic service. STUK advises asking for a test report before buying.
Photobiological risk groups at a glance
IEC/EN 62471 classifies lamps and LEDs by photobiological risk. The general definitions (summarised by lighting manufacturer Reggiani) are:
| Group | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Exempt (RG0) | No photobiological hazard |
| RG1 (low risk) | No hazard under normal behavioural limitations |
| RG2 (moderate risk) | The natural aversion to bright light or thermal discomfort prevents harm |
| RG3 (high risk) | Hazardous even for momentary or brief exposure |
Some lash system brands, such as Illumino, recommend protective eyewear for RG2 and RG3 products and gel pads over the client’s closed lids. Ask the seller for your lamp’s risk group and test report; if you cannot get them, always apply the maximum-protection protocol below.
Protecting your client’s eyes: step by step
- Explain the procedure first. Your client needs to know she must keep her eyes closed throughout and must not open them even if she notices light or warmth.
- Eyes closed at all times. No manufacturer allows the light to be pointed at open or unprotected eyes (Curacoro, Starry Lashes). Beamlight labels its glue “not suitable for open eye application”.
- Cover the area. Starry Lashes recommends dark, matte tape or gel pads; with thin tape you may need two layers. Curacoro stresses that protection must be in place before the lamp is switched on. Gel pads or tape from our accessories range can be used, but never assume a material blocks the light.
- Test your pads and tape. Starry Lashes advises holding them under the lamp before using them on clients.
- Check in during the service. If the client notices light or warmth between her lids, stop, check the protection and, if needed, secure the lid with tape (Starry Lashes).
- Keep the beam as narrow as possible. Starry Lashes recommends the smallest lens setting; Curacoro advises a narrow beam for bond-by-bond curing to avoid unnecessary exposure around the eye.
- Stick to the manufacturer’s distance and time. Starry Lashes warns that exposure rises sharply as the distance shrinks or curing time per lash increases. Module 3 covers the ranges manufacturers give.
Protecting yourself
- Never look directly into the lamp. Every manufacturer we consulted gives this warning.
- Wear UV-filtering glasses. The Lash Canarias UV LED lamp comes with UV protective glasses: wear them every time. Starry Lashes recommends UV400 glasses and warns that glasses that only filter up to 380 nm do not fully protect against UVA. Some brands (KA Lashes, Beamlight) describe glasses as an extra precaution rather than mandatory because the light points downwards; given that disagreement, the cautious choice is to always wear them.
- Protect your hands and airways. Ventilate the room (London Lash, Beamlight) and wear nitrile gloves, changing them often (see below).
Contraindications and precautions listed by manufacturers
There is no single official list for lash lamps. These are the situations in which the manufacturers we consulted advise against treatment or ask for a doctor’s opinion first. They are in addition to the general extension contraindications from the extensions course:
| Situation | Source |
|---|---|
| Abrasions, wounds, herpes, psoriasis, infections, sunburn or skin cancer in the area | KA Lashes, Beamlight |
| Photosensitivity, polymorphic light eruption, lupus or photosensitive eczema | KA Lashes, Beamlight |
| Photosensitising medication (KA Lashes cites retinoids, antihistamines and NSAIDs) | KA Lashes, Beamlight, Curacoro |
| Epilepsy, haemophilia, thyroid disease, radiotherapy or chemotherapy | KA Lashes, Beamlight |
| IPL or laser in the area within the last 21 days; surgery in the area within the last 3 months | KA Lashes |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding: only after consulting a doctor | Beamlight |
You do not diagnose: if any of these apply, or there is any doubt, do not apply and suggest the client speaks to her doctor.
Acrylate allergy: what the medical sources say
A 2021 review in Advances in Dermatology and Allergology (Kucharczyk et al.) explains that lash glue often contains cyanoacrylates and has been linked to eye problems such as blepharitis in clients and to hand eczema in lash stylists. It describes a woman who developed blepharoconjunctivitis after a year of using an acrylate lash adhesive, followed by rhinitis; her symptoms cleared when she stopped using it.
Key points from that review for anyone using light-cured products:
- With gel nails, the risk of sensitisation depends on using good-quality UV devices and an adequate curing time. In dentistry, inadequate polymerisation releases residual monomers. That is why the lamp-glue compatibility from Module 1 is also a safety issue.
- Many people react to several acrylates at once (cross-reactions or concomitant allergies).
- Patch testing, carried out by a dermatologist, is the gold standard for diagnosing the allergy.
- Nitrile gloves protect better than latex, but only for brief exposure (15–20 minutes); other authors suggest changing them after about 30 minutes.
London Lash adds two practical points: reactions usually build up gradually over months or years of appointments, and a negative patch test is no guarantee. Itchy or slightly puffy eyelids after sessions are a red flag to stop treatment. Carry out the patch test your glue manufacturer specifies (Tatti Lashes, for example, asks for one 24 hours beforehand).
Watch out for TPO: since 1 September 2025 the photoinitiator TPO (INCI: Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) has been banned in cosmetic products in the EU, according to Ireland’s Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA). It mainly affects UV nail gels and polishes, but check the ingredient list of any UV-cured product you use and confirm with your supplier.
What to do if there is a reaction or an accident
- If the client reports intense itching, swelling, pain or redness, stop the treatment.
- If glue gets into the eye, manufacturers’ labels say to rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
- After a reaction, removal must be done carefully (Module 5) and the client should see a healthcare professional.
- Record the products used (brand and batch) on her client card so a doctor has the information.
Common mistakes
- Relying on closed eyelids alone. Manufacturers also call for pads or tape, a narrow beam and the correct distance.
- Buying a lamp with no manual or test data. STUK found incomplete or implausible technical data on every device it studied.
- Skipping your glasses “because the light points down”. One moment of distraction is enough to look straight into it.
- Curing for longer “just in case”. It increases exposure; the right time is the manufacturer’s.
Module summary
- UV radiation can cause photokeratitis and, in the long term, cataracts (WHO, STUK).
- STUK measured six lash lamps: three were in the highest risk group for the unprotected eye.
- Protocol: eyes closed, tested pads or tape, narrow beam, the manufacturer’s distance and time, UV glasses for the technician.
- Check manufacturers’ contraindications and refer to a doctor whenever in doubt.
- UV adhesives contain acrylates: allergy is still possible and incomplete curing increases the risk.
Self-assessment
Which acute effect of UV radiation on the eye does the WHO mention?
Photokeratitis and photoconjunctivitis, inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva, which are painful but usually reversible.
What did STUK base its risk group classification on?
The UV hazard to the unprotected eye, measured at the manual’s working distance and at 20 cm according to EN 62471:2008.
A client takes medication that makes her sensitive to the sun. What do you do?
You do not simply go ahead: manufacturers list photosensitising medication as a contraindication or a reason to consult a doctor. You suggest she checks with her doctor.
Why is incomplete curing also a safety issue?
It leaves unpolymerised monomer behind, and the Kucharczyk et al. review links inadequate polymerisation to a higher risk of acrylate sensitisation.
Note: this online course is for educational and information purposes only and does not replace hands-on, in-person training with a qualified educator. Always follow each product manufacturer’s instructions.
Sources
- WHO – Ultraviolet radiation (fact sheet)
- STUK – Antti Latomäki: Examining the UV radiation of lash extension devices (2024)
- O’Malley S, Feighery C. Ultraviolet light and eyelash extensions: does convenience outweigh theoretical risk? Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2024
- Kucharczyk M et al. Acrylates as a significant causes of allergic contact dermatitis – new sources of exposure. Advances in Dermatology and Allergology, 2021
- HPRA – TPO added to European Union list of prohibited ingredients
- Reggiani – Photobiological safety (EN 62471 risk groups)
- Illumino Lashes – Are UV and LED Lash Extensions Safe?
- Starry Lashes – Safety of the UV LED lash extensions
- KA Lashes – UV LED Light System (product page and FAQ)
- Beamlight – UV Lash System S6 Complete Set (product page)
- Curacoro – MasterSET Beam UV LED Light (product page)
- London Lash – Lash Extension Allergies: A Safety Guide for Technicians
- Tatti Lashes – UV Lash Glue (product page)
Buy the course supplies
All the supplies for this course are available at Lash Canarias: