Eyelash Extension Care – How to Sleep with Extensions

  • Published
  • Last Updated
  • April 20th, 2023
woman in bed with lash design pillow covering her face

You’ve just gotten a full set of lash extensions and they’re looking FAB! Now you want to keep them looking full, fluffy and flawless. That’s why eyelash extension care, which includes proper sleeping, is sooo important.

From how you sleep 💤 to the pillowcase you sleep on, there is a “right” way when it comes to sleeping with lash extensions! Knowing how to sleep with lash extensions is a necessary part of the lash aftercare process AND can impact the longevity of your lash extensions.

See some of the expert tips we’ve gathered from our Lash Lounge training team for sleeping with eyelash extensions!

How to Sleep with Eyelash Extensions

Believe it or not, there is an ideal way for sleeping with lash extensions. The best position: Sleep on your back (sorry for the bummer news to all you stomach sleepers!). This ensures that each precious lash will stay in place.

If you’re not a back sleeper, we know it may be tough to change your habits. If sleeping on your side is how you’re most comfy, that’s A-ok, too! Just know that it’s not uncommon to notice a couple of lashes on your pillow from time to time.

Stomach sleepers, we’re back to you! When it comes to caring for your eyelash extensions, your fave sleep position is not the best match. Sleeping on your stomach may mean your lash extensions could shed prematurely because of increased friction from tossing and turning and even excess warmth. Of course, you can still sleep on your stomach with lashes if you like. Just know that your extensions may not last as long and you will likely find some on your pillowcase when you wake.

black woman smiling and refreshed waking up in bed

Pillow Talk: What’s the Best Pillow for Lash Extensions?

It’s true—the type of pillowcase you use CAN affect your lashes. Silk and satin pillowcases are the best pillowcase options for those with lash extensions.

Let’s review some common types of pillowcases and how they can impact your lovely extensions …

  • Classic cotton—This may be your go-to pillow because it’s comfy and smooth, but cotton causes friction between your lashes and the material, resulting in premature lash shedding. 👎 Lashes aside, cotton is also moisture-wicking and can draw out natural oils from your hair and skin, further causing issues like making your lashes dry.
  • Jersey-knit—A jersey fabric pillowcase is soft and comforting like a well-worn t-shirt. But this stretchy fabric doesn’t allow your lashes to easily glide along the surface as you toss and turn. This means that some extensions can get lost during the night.
  • Silk— We LOVE silk and satin for our hair, skin and yep, our lashes. Resting your head and lashes on a silk or satin pillowcase allows your extensions to glide on the surface while you sleep, avoiding any lashes getting caught or pulled. BONUS: These pillowcases can even help prevent the appearance of facial wrinkles, assist in keeping your skin smooth and help reduce acne! All in all, a silk/satin pillowcase is the way to go so you can wake up looking and feeling refreshed. 💁🏾
gray headboard with white pillows and Lash Lounge sleep mask

Can You Wear an Eye Mask with Lash Extensions?

You CAN wear an eye mask with lash extensions. The key is the type of mask you wear (AKA, a contoured sleep mask). Our wonderful corporate trainer, Ambrielle, shared, “I have mixed emotions about using masks with lash extensions. I find that the wrong type of mask can cause more harm than good (i.e., smashing the lashes, retention issues, etc.). However, I would recommend the right kind of mask where the socket area is beveled out so there’s no direct contact with the mask and the lash extensions.”

Well, we took Ambrielle’s advice and created the PERFECT eye mask for lash extensions! 👀 With its premium foam and silk construction, our 3D Contoured Lash Sleep Mask is comfortable AND shaped to protect your lashes while you sleep. With our mask, you can sleep on any type of pillowcase, knowing your extensions are protected.

Related Blog: How to Take Care of Your Eyelash Extensions

How to Protect Eyelash Extensions When Sleeping

Let’s break it down. To protect your lashes while sleeping, you:

  • can’t go wrong with sleeping on your back or side
  • should sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase
  • need the right kind of sleep mask, like our 3D Contoured Lash Sleep Mask, so you can sleep any which way you like!

Have more questions about sleeping with extensions? Ask your lash stylist during your next appointment. Our stylists are experts with loads of lash care knowledge AND tips!