LASH EXTENSIONS AFTERCARE: HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR LASHES
Whether you have short eyelashes or want to add some volume, eyelash extensions are a great way to draw attention to your beautiful eyes — sans mascara.
But here’s the thing: They’re an investment. Eyelash extensions take time to apply and can cost up to $300, depending on where you get them done, your eye shape, and your lash length.
So, after all that, you will want to take good care of them.
Why is aftercare important?
Like any good investment, eyelash extensions require maintenance. If you’re diligent about aftercare, it can:
keep your eyelashes clean
prevent eye infections
keep them looking nice longer
save you money because you won’t need to maintain or replace them as often
What does eyelash extension aftercare involve?
There are a few things you should do to maintain your eyelash extensions.
Please don’t get them wet for 48 hours after application
For the first 48 hours after application, avoid taking a shower, washing your eyes, or getting your eyelash extensions wet.
Water can affect the glue, causing the bond to become brittle and easy to break.
After that, wash them regularly.
After the first 48 hours, residue will start to build up around the lash line if you don’t wash your extensions. This can lead to eye infections and other eye issues.
Instead, you will want to clean your lash extensions every three days. You can do so by performing the following steps:
1. Brush them with a soft bristle brush.
2. Wash them with a unique eyelash extension cleanser or distilled water.
3. Let the water from your shower run down your face and over your eyes.
Brush them, too
You’ll want to brush your eyelash tips every morning to keep them looking good.
Using a clean, dry spoolie (aka the brush used to apply mascara) best supports your lashes with a clean finger as you brush.
Use caution with products
Be careful with makeup.
You’ll also want to skip mascara, even the ones that market themselves as “extension-safe.” Waterproof makeup, such as waterproof mascara, can soften the glue on your lash extensions.
If you use eyeliner, opt for a water-based, non-waterproof version — and be gentle when you remove your makeup at the end of the night.
Rubbing your eyes isn’t suitable for your extensions. It could damage them and your natural lashes.
Powdery eyeshadow might not be a great idea, as the powder can get stuck in the glue and build up over time.
What not to do
Don’t pick at them
Your extensions will initially feel weird, but you should feel more comfortable with them after a couple of days.
But no matter how weird they feel, don’t pick at them or try to remove them yourself. All you’ll do is tear or break your natural lashes.
Sleep on your stomach or side
If you sleep on your stomach or side, you might crush your lashes, making them last a shorter period.
If you sleep on your back instead, they’ll last longer.
Don’t use eyelash curlers
They can damage your extensions or pull them out.
When to get them done again
Lash extensions usually last about 3 to 4 weeks, but they can last 6 to 8 weeks if you take care of them.
You can get them taken out early, but make sure a professional does it. Otherwise, they’ll fall out on their own.
The bottom line
Eyelash extensions can make your eyelashes look longer and fuller. But to make them truly last, you’ll need to take care of them.
You can keep them in longer by brushing your extensions daily, cleaning them every three days, and avoiding things that could make them fall out sooner or damage your natural lashes — saving you money and time.
Source: Healthline-Eyelash Extensions Aftercare: How to get the most out of your lashes