How to Protect Your Eyelash Extensions in Three Steps

  • Published
  • Last Updated
  • February 5th, 2024
mid-shot of woman cleaning her lash extensions with a soft brush

Did you know that makeup, debris and natural skin oil can build up along your lash line? It’s a fact AND something that can threaten the durability of your lash extension adhesive. When it comes to the longevity and appearance of your lash extensions, nothing is more important than properly cleaning and caring for them between refill appointments.

Not only will washing your lashes help you get the most out of your lovely extensions, but it will also promote general lash health and growth. When you apply the right tips, it’s easy to make lash cleaning and care a simple addition to your day. ✨

How Do I Clean My Lash Extensions?

Three quick and easy steps are all it takes for cleaning your lash extensions! In fact, all you’re doing is removing existing makeup, oil or dirt by cleaning them with an oil-free cleanser. Once that’s done, you simply pat your lashes dry, give them a gentle brush and voilà!

Gel eye makeup remover product box and bottle from The Lash Lounge

Adding lash cleaning to your daily routine is one of the best ways to keep your lash line looking as lush as the first day you got your extensions!

See below for three extension cleaning steps so you can protect your lash investment and keep your lash line full.

How to Wash Lash Extensions:

Step 1: Remove Makeup and Debris

To prep your lashes for the ultimate cleanse, you’ll want to start by using an oil-free makeup remover around your upper and lower lid lines. We recommend using our Gel Eye Makeup Remover which is infused with hydrolyzed soy protein and works wonders for removing makeup without drying out your skin. Paired with our Lint-Free wipes, it’s easier than ever to gently removing makeup around your lash line!

Step 2: Cleanse Your Lashes with a Lash Extension-Safe Cleanser

Now that your extensions are free of makeup and debris, it’s time to get them squeaky clean! 🧼 For this step, you’ll want to make sure you use an oil- and alcohol-free cleanser to protect the extensions’ adhesive.

Take your selected cleanser and apply 1-2 pumps onto the back of your hand or onto a clean lash cleansing brush. Then, close your eyes and apply the brush over your eyelid, gently working in small sections across your lash line. Once the cleanser has made its way evenly along your lash line, rinse with water and lightly pat or air dry.

Our cleanser rec: Use the Lash Detox foaming cleanser in either our Unscented or Tea Tree formula!

bottle of Lash Detox Cleanser for cleaning lash extensions sitting on counter

Step 3: Comb Your Lashes

No lash cleaning is complete without a final fluff and comb through! For this step, take a clean lash wand (our fav is our stylish Crystal Lash Wand!) and, once your lashes are dry, gently give them a brush through to separate and fluff.

Now that your lashes are clean and fluffed, you’re ready to take on the day! 🤩

Lash Cleaning FAQs

Why Cleaning Your Lash Extensions Is Important

Not only will regularly cleaning lash extensions at home make them last longer, but it will also ensure they stay healthy between your refill appointments. Over time, dead skin cells, dirt, makeup and oils build up on lash extensions and across your lash line. If not regularly cleaned, these impurities can dissolve your lash extensions’ bond. Trust us, no lash lover want’s that!

How Often Should You Clean Your Lash Extensions?

The answer is simple: Clean your eyelash extensions once a day. That’s right, one good, thorough cleanse is all you need keep them looking long and full between lash refill appointments.

close-up of woman removing her eye makeup

Can You Wear Eye Makeup with Lash Extensions?

Good news: You can wear eye makeup with extensions! While most of our guests choose lash extensions so they can ditch mascara and other eye makeup, there are some who want to wear it for some extra va-va-voom, and that is a-okay! Just remember that, if you choose to wear makeup with your extensions, it’s important to keep these two steps in mind:

  1. Avoid oil and alcohol-based makeup products—these ingredients can cause premature breakdown of your lash adhesive. Oil-free and alcohol-free makeup and mascaras are the way to go!
  2. Remove your makeup daily—thoroughly removing any and all of your makeup will keep your lashes clean while also avoiding buildup that could possibly cause inflammation if not cleansed regularly.

If you have questions or concerns about how to wash your eyelash extensions, or you just want more info on lash extension aftercare, ask one of our expert stylists at The Lash Lounge!

Enjoy Your Clean Lashes

Remove makeup, cleanse, dry and comb. It’s THAT simple! With these easy steps, your lashes will stay looking lush that much longer.

For the ultimate long-lasting lashes, don’t forget to schedule lash refill appointments every two weeks. Your stylist will replace any naturally grown-out lashes and make sure your extensions are perfectly set so you feel beautiful and confident! 💜