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How to Clean Eyelash Extensions The Right Way

How to Clean Eyelash Extensions The Right Way

Many clients worry that cleaning their eyelash extensions will make them fall out, but the opposite is true. Proper cleaning keeps your extensions in top condition and improves lash retention, while neglecting hygiene can cause damage or irritation. In this guide, I’ll share a few simple ways to clean eyelash extensions at home to keep your lashes looking flawless and healthy.

Why It’s Important to Clean Eyelash Extensions

Dirt, oil, and cosmetics can build up on your lash extensions, leading to itchy eyes, premature lash loss, or even blepharitis (eyelid inflammation). Besides maintaining good hygiene, cleaning your extensions ensures they last longer and look fresh while preventing the adhesive from breaking down prematurely.

Neglecting proper cleaning can affect the health of your natural lashes and the skin around your eyes. Clean extensions help you maintain both peak lash retention and eye health.

Products You Can Use to Clean Your Lash Extensions

Your lash technician will likely recommend that you clean your lashes daily with an oil-free foam cleanser and lash brush. This isn’t to upsell you a product; a specially formulated lash shampoo is safe to use on your eyes, oil-free, and will properly clean lash extensions without breaking down the lash glue. 

At Hello Beautiful, our oil-free foaming lash cleaners are safe for the delicate eye area, non irritating, free from phthalates, parabens, ethylene oxide, betaine, and sulfates – and includes a free brush! 

If you don’t have a dedicated lash shampoo, you can also use: 

  • Micellar Water (look for the type without any added oil)
  • Oil Free Makeup Remover

How to Clean With a Lash Extension Cleanser

For a squeaky-clean result, a foaming, oil-free lash cleanser is the best product to clean your extensions. These options are specifically formulated to clean dirty lashes without harming the adhesive or irritating your eyes.

  1. Pump a small amount of lash extension cleanser onto your lash brush.
  2. Gently work the cleanser along the lash line (the base of your lashes), being careful to avoid aggressive scrubbing.
  3. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
  4. Pat your lashes dry with a clean paper towel, then use a clean spoolie or mascara wand to brush your lashes into place. 
  5. Thicker lash sets such as Russian Volume may take longer to dry. You can use a hairdryer on the cool setting to help dry your lashes.

How to Clean Lash Extensions with Micellar Water

Micellar water can be used to clean lash extensions at home if you choose the oil free version. Those with oil can break down the lash adhesive, causing your extensions to fall out. It may not be as effective as a good lash shampoo, but is better than not cleaning them at all.

1. Pour a small amount onto your lash brush.
2. Gently wipe along the lash line to remove dirt, makeup, and impurities.
3. Rinse your lashes with lukewarm water, then dry with a clean paper towel.

Can You Clean Eyelash Extensions with Water Only?

If you’re pressed for time or don’t have eyelash extension cleaning products on hand, cleaning with plain water is better than skipping altogether. This method doesn’t remove stubborn or oil-based dirt like cosmetics, but it will clear away excess dust or light grime. Simply rinse your lashes with lukewarm water and air dry.

Cleaning After Crying

Crying can leave salt residue on your extensions. If you’ve been crying, follow these steps:

1. Rinse your lashes gently with lukewarm water to flush out the salt and tear residue.
2. Use a lash cleanser or oil-free makeup remover to fully cleanse the area.
3. Dry your lashes carefully by blotting them with a clean paper towel. Avoid rubbing!

Cleaning Mascara Off Lash Extensions

It’s best to skip mascara if you have eyelash extensions, as most formulas can cause them to clump or break down the lash adhesive. However, if you must wear it, make sure it is labeled as extension-safe or oil-free. Avoid waterproof mascaras, they are difficult to remove. Follow one of the step-by-step guides above to wash your lashes. 

Can You Wear Eye Makeup with Eyelash Extensions?

Yes, you can wear makeup with extensions, but there are some caveats. Always choose oil-free and extension-safe products. Avoid heavy eyeliners or waterproof products that can damage the delicate bond between the extensions and your natural lashes.

For eye liner, opt for water-based formulas and apply it minimally. Cleanse thoroughly after wearing eye makeup. Cleaning your eyelids is just as important as cleaning your extensions, so don’t skip this. 

How Often Should You Clean Eyelash Extensions?

Cleaning your lash extensions daily is ideal to prevent the accumulation of oil, dead skin cells, and dirt. At a minimum, aim to clean your eyelash extensions at least 2–3 times a week.

If you wear cosmetics or have oily skin (including oily eyelids), more frequent cleaning will help maintain proper hygiene and ensure your extensions last longer.

How to Wash Your Face with Eyelash Extensions

Washing your face requires extra care when you have extensions. Follow these tips:

  1. Wash your face first, then wash your lashes.
  2. Use a paper towel or a paper tissue to blot your face—don’t rub!
  3. If you must use oil based products on your face to remove makeup, keep them away from your eyes. 

Why I Don’t Recommend Baby Shampoo to Clean Lashes

I’ve seen some people recommend baby shampoo as a gentle alternative to other cleansers for your lashes. Baby shampoo contains glycerin, which is derived from plant oils. As an oil-derived product, my concern is lash retention. For this reason, I don’t recommend using baby shampoo.

Also Avoid These Products On Your Lashes

  • Hexane free castor oil is my recommended go-to for lash recovery and health in between extensions, but it’s unsuitable when you have extensions on; the oil will break down the adhesive. 
  • Cotton pads or cotton balls—lint from cotton products often gets caught on extensions and can pull them out. I recommend a super-soft, lint-free brush. 
  • I can’t stress enough that any product you choose to keep your lash extensions clean should be oil-free and safe for the eyes. 
  • Swap your soft lint towel to a paper towel or a face tissue. The towel fibre can pull your extensions out or damage them.

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