How To Clean Eyelash Extensions

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Eyelash extensions are an easy way to make your eyelashes looking full without much effort. You don’t need to put mascara on every day, and unless you’re naturally blessed with long, lustrous lashes it means your eye area really can look better than ever before.

It is, however, important to keep your eyelash extensions in good condition – and clean eyelash extensions often. Not only does this mean your lashes will look better for longer, you will also keep your eyes healthy by getting rid of any bacteria.

Step-by-step: How to clean eyelash extensions

1
Wet your lashes with warm water.
2
Use a gentle, oil-free and alcohol-free cleanser – such as a foaming face cleanser, facial soap or baby shampoo – and work it gently into your lashes and over your eyelids
3
Pro Tip: You can also read our article on how to make your own antibacterial soap to ensure that your cleanser is free from harmful ingredients.
4
Use an up-and-down motion so you don’t tug at your eyelashes and concentrate on the lash line as this is where dirt and bacteria can build up.
5
Rinse with warm water.
6
It’s best to let them dry naturally. Occasionally, you could give each eyelashes set a 10-second blast of cold air from your hairdryer – but don’t do this too often as it could affect the adhesive.
7
Comb your eyelash extensions out with a clean mascara brush.

How often to clean eyelash extensions

It’s best to clean your eyelash extensions a few times a week, if not daily. You can just comb through with a little warm water to remove light dirt.

It’s a good idea to clean them last thing at night, after you’ve removed your make-up.

How to maintain eyelash extensions

There are a few other ways to make sure your eyelash extensions stay in good shape:

1
Oil is the nemesis of the eyelashes’ bonding agent – so keep your eyelash extensions oil-free. That means avoiding moisturising shampoo and conditioners, so shield your eyes while washing your hair.
2
Don’t rub your eyes. Needless to say, this could loosen or make your lashes fall out.
3
Avoid cream eyeshadows and liquid eyeliner.
4
Be careful when removing make-up and when cleaning lash extensions. Make-up wipes or any material that could tug at the lashes are best avoided. Try applying an oil-free makeup remover such as Simple Micellar Cleansing Water with your finger, then gently blot with a damp cleansing cloth.

Why should I clean my eyelash extensions?

As mentioned, keeping your eyelash extensions clean not only helps them look better for longer - it also means you'll be less prone to germs and infections. Styes, for example, are caused by collected bacteria at the bottom of the eyelid. Blepharitis is another one to watch out for - this is when the hair follicle becomes infected and blocked because it hasn't been cleaned properly. It can cause soreness and red, itchy eyes.

How to extend the life of your lash extensions?

Extending the life of your lash extensions requires a combination of proper care and maintenance. Here are essential tips to keep your lash extensions looking fabulous for longer:

1
Gentle Cleansing: Cleanse your lash extensions daily with a gentle, oil-free lash cleanser or baby shampoo. Use a soft brush or your fingertips to remove makeup, oils, and debris, being careful not to tug or rub excessively. At the same time, make sure you know how to clean makeup brushes properly to ensure that your tools won’t contribute to the dirt build-up on your lashes.
2
Avoid Oil-Based Products: Steer clear of oil-based cosmetics and makeup removers. Oils can break down the lash adhesive, causing extensions to fall out prematurely.
3
No Mascara: Avoid mascara on your extensions, as removing it can be harsh on the lashes and extensions. If you want more volume, opt for volume lash extensions during your next fill.
4
Regular Fills: Schedule regular lash fill appointments every 2-4 weeks to replace lost extensions and maintain a full look.
5
Be Gentle: Avoid rubbing your eyes, pulling, or tugging at your lash extensions. This can damage both the extensions and your natural lashes.
6
Sleep Carefully: Try to sleep on your back to prevent friction and pressure on your lashes. You can also use a silk or satin pillowcase to minimize rubbing.
7
Protect Lashes in Water: Avoid submerging your lashes in water for extended periods, especially hot tubs and saunas. Chlorine and excessive moisture can weaken the lash adhesive.
8
Sleep on a silk pillowcase: Whether you go for a DIY or professional eyelash extension application, your lashes are supposed to be slept in. Despite that, a lot of people have their lashes falling out at night. Most of the time, this happens because of their cotton pillowcases. As such, you should switch to a smoother pillowcase, preferably one made of silk or satin. This way, your lashes won’t fall off even when you toss and turn while sleeping.
9
Apply a protective coating: After your regular eyelash extension cleaning, apply a sealant to keep the adhesive strong. At the same time, applying a protective after-cleanse product will give a nice shine to your lashes, making them look like new. Usually, you can purchase this sealant from your lash technician.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy longer-lasting, stunning lash extensions and keep your natural lashes healthy.

Reference:

1. Hordeolum (stye). (n.d.). AOA. https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/hordeolum?sso=y

2. Sosne, G., Rimmer, D., Kleinman, H., & Ousler, G. (2016). Thymosin Beta 4. In Vitamins and hormones (pp. 277–306). https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.vh.2016.04.012

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Frequently asked questions about cleaning eyelash extensions

What do you use to clean eyelash extensions?
You can use an oil-free and alcohol-free facial cleanser to clean your eyelash extensions.
Can you clean eyelash extensions with just water?
Yes, you can clean your eyelash extensions with just water, but start doing so 24 hours after they’ve been installed. Otherwise, the lashes will fall off prematurely. Also, while eyelash extensions can be cleaned with water, you can remove gunk more efficiently if you use micellar water or lash shampoo.
What happens if you don't clean your lash extensions?
If you don’t clean your lash extensions, the adhesive will become weak due to the build-up of oil and dirt. Consequently, the lashes will fall off prematurely, and you’ll have to go back to the tech sooner for a touch-up.
Can you clean fake eyelashes with alcohol?
Yes, you can safely clean fake eyelashes with alcohol as long as they are not attached to your real lashes. All you need to do is place the lashes on a paper towel, then lightly mist them with rubbing alcohol. Then, use a mascara wand to gently lift off gunk or dirt build-up.

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