Lash extensions can truly transform your look, giving you that glamorous, eye-catching appearance you’ve always desired. As a lash technician, I’ve seen firsthand the boost in confidence they bring.
But let’s be real: there’s nothing more frustrating than seeing your beautiful lashes fall out prematurely. You invest time and money into getting them just right, only for them to lose their luster too soon.
I’ve been there, painstakingly applying extensions to clients, only to have them return disappointed when their lashes don’t last. That’s why I’m here to share some insider tips on how to extend your lash extension lifespan and keep them looking fabulous for as long as possible.
Initial Care Post-Application
The first 24 to 48 hours after getting your lash extensions are like the foundation of a house – it needs to be solid for everything else to hold up.
The key here is to avoid any water or steam contact with your lashes. This means no hot showers, steam rooms, or sweaty workouts. Why? Because the glue used for your extensions is still setting, and moisture can weaken its bond.
Now, you might be wondering, “Do I have to walk on eggshells during this period?” Not exactly. It’s just about being mindful. If you accidentally get your lashes wet, don’t panic. Just gently pat them dry without rubbing.
And when it comes to sleeping, try to avoid sleeping on your face. I know, it sounds challenging if you’re a side or stomach sleeper, but trust me, it’s worth the effort to keep those lashes intact.
Daily Cleaning Routine
Maintaining a daily cleaning routine is crucial for extending the life of your lash extensions. Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Won’t cleaning them cause them to fall out faster?” It’s a common misconception, but the reality is, the cleaner your lashes, the longer they’ll last. Dirt, oil, and makeup residue can break down the adhesive over time, leading to premature shedding. So, how do you clean them without causing damage?
The trick is to be gentle and use the right products:
- Invest in a lash extension-safe cleanser – these are specifically formulated to clean your lashes without harming the glue.
- Use a soft, clean brush or a lint-free cloth to apply the cleanser. Gently sweep it along your lash line, being careful not to tug or pull.
- When drying your lashes, avoid rubbing them with a towel. Instead, give them a gentle pat or let them air dry.
Avoid Oil-Based Products
Oil and lash extensions are not the best of friends. Oil-based products weaken the glue that holds your lash extensions in place, leading to faster fallout. So, what can you do?
Check your makeup remover, cleanser, and even your moisturizer. If they contain oil, you need to get rid of them.
Does this mean you have to compromise on your skincare and makeup routine?Not at all! There are plenty of high-quality, oil-free options out there that can keep your skin looking great without damaging your lashes.
Proper Makeup and Mascara Use
For most people, once they have lash extensions on, they don’t see a need to use mascara, and rightly so, since extensions offer the enhancement and volume that mascara aims to provide.
However, I’ve had some of my clients express a desire to use mascara for added drama, and it’s still okay. But the advice here is crucial: choose the right kind of mascara. It’s best to avoid waterproof varieties since their removal can be challenging, often necessitating oil-based removers. These types of removers can compromise the adhesive of your lash extensions, leading to a weaker bond and potentially causing them to fall out sooner.
When it comes to eyeshadow and eyeliner, it’s also important to make careful selections. While powder eyeshadows are generally safe, cream-based shadows might contain oils that can compromise the adhesive. For eyeliners, it’s preferable to use liquid or gel liners rather than pencil liners, which can pull at the extensions during application.
Sleeping Habits
What kind of sleeper are you – a side, stomach, or back sleeper? Did you know that your favorite sleeping position can significantly affect the longevity of your lash extensions? It’s a detail many of us overlook, but it’s quite impactful.
If you love to curl up on their side or stomach, there’s a chance you’re putting undue pressure on those beautiful lashes, causing them to tangle or fall out prematurely.
So, what’s the solution?
If possible, try switching to sleeping on your back. It might sound like a small change, but it’s incredibly effective in keeping your lash extensions intact and looking their best. And if changing your sleeping position feels like a tall order, a silk pillowcase can be a fantastic alternative. Silk causes less friction than traditional cotton pillowcases, reducing the chances of your lashes getting caught or rubbed off as you toss and turn.
Conclusion
Getting eyelash extensions is an exciting experience. They enhance your look, boost your confidence, and save you time on your daily makeup routine. But the excitement can quickly turn to frustration when they start falling out prematurely, leaving you wondering why you got them in the first place.
However, this doesn’t have to be the case. In fact, you don’t need to spend more money on constant refills or special treatments. The key to maintaining your lash extensions lies in how you handle, clean, and care for them, along with the products you use.
