California Cosmetology Written ExamEyelash and Eyebrow ServicesMedium
A client's eyes begin to water and sting during a lash extension service due to strong adhesive fumes. What is the technician's best immediate action to improve safety going forward?
- ASwitch to a slower-drying adhesive with a stronger odor
- BIncrease airflow with proper ventilation and keep the adhesive bottle capped when not dispensing
- CApply numbing eye drops before continuing
- DMove the client closer to the adhesive bottle for faster bonding
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Increase airflow with proper ventilation and keep the adhesive bottle capped when not dispensing
Cyanoacrylate adhesive releases fumes that can irritate eyes and airways. Cal/OSHA and manufacturer safety guidance require adequate ventilation (fans, air filtration) and minimizing open-bottle exposure time to reduce fume buildup and protect both client and technician.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A stronger-odor adhesive would worsen fume exposure, not improve safety.
- C. Numbing drops mask symptoms but do not address the underlying fume hazard.
- D. Moving closer to the fumes increases irritation risk rather than reducing it.
Adhesive Fume Safety
Cyanoacrylate lash adhesives emit fumes that can irritate eyes and respiratory passages; proper ventilation and minimal bottle exposure reduce this risk.
- Use fans or air purifiers during application
- Keep adhesive capped between uses
- Avoid pointing bottle opening toward client's face
Memory trick: Fresh air keeps fumes fair.