How to Clean Your Eyelash Extensions

Clean Lash Extensions Last Longer!

Just like you wash your hair or drink water, you should also be cleaning your eyelash extensions! It’s a necessity and it’s so important to take proper care of your extensions. 

Your lash artist does their part by professionally applying them in the most sanitary way - so it’s up to you, the client, to take the time for your extensions at home in between fills.

Cleaning your lash extensions a few times a week is the major key to maintaining the general health of your eyelashes and keeping your morning routine in check.   

If you’re new to the eyelash extension world, washing your lashes may seem foreign  - Salty Lash brings you some helpful tips for at home care for your eyelash extensions!

Benefits of Regular Cleansing

Most clients with eyelash extensions don’t realize that you will lose more eyelash extensions when you avoid washing them. Dirty lashes may not look dirty in the mirror but your eyelash artist will definitely notice the buildup!

Since your lash glue loves to be kept clean and will maintain a stronger bond to your natural eyelashes - you should be washing your lashes at least two to three times a week.

Not only will your eyelash extensions look better but they will also last longer. You will also avoid infection from any bacteria when your lashes are kept clean! 

Improper Cleansing Results 

It’s critical to maintain and upkeep your eyelashes extensions. Buildup of makeup, oils, and dead skin cells can clog up your natural lash line extremely quickly. 

You need to wash your lash extensions at least two to three times per week. Include brushing your eyelashes in your everyday routine, it’s recommended you do this daily.

Not cleansing regularly can lead to possible infections, poor growth and overall health of your natural lashes and also lash mites (yes, this is a real thing!) 

If you clean your lashes as instructed with a reliable eyelash cleanser, you’ll avoid getting an infection or even a mite infestation. 

Some clients completely disregard cleaning their extensions when they hear to avoid getting their eyelashes wet, rubbing their eyes, or cleaning them with a harsh cleanser.

Dirty lashes will cause your lash glue to weaken. This means the extension will fall off your natural eyelash quicker instead of lasting the entire lash cycle when the eyelashes naturally shed. 

If you wash your lashes as instructed, you can easily avoid your extensions shedding early. Your lash glue loves to be kept clean! 

What Do I Use to Wash My Lashes???

Now that you’re aware of the benefits of regular lash cleansing and the outcome if you avoid washing your lashes - let’s dive into the proper, safest way to clean your lashes!

To properly remove any makeup residue, bacteria, dead skin cells, and oils it’s important to find a safe, oil-free cleanser. I use this lash cleanser for myself and all my clients. 

Stacy Lash Shampoo includes:

• Oil-free (so important!)
• Non-irritating, non-burning
• Can be used at home or in salon
• Vegan and cruelty free

If you can’t get your hands on this specific lash shampoo, substitute a facial foaming cleanser that has no oils in it. It’s important you avoid any product containing oils around your eye area.

If you can’t make it to the store and happen to have baby shampoo in your bathroom cabinet - mix ½ of baby shampoo and ½ of water! This is a great alternative if you’ve just run out of cleanser.

You want to use either a clean, mascara wand or a small, fluffy makeup brush. If you purchased the lash shampoo I listed above - it includes a makeup brush!

Most lash artists will give you a new, clean mascara wand after each appointment but in case if they don’t - I purchase these and love them! It is so helpful to have them around to touch up your extensions whenever you need to.

How do I properly wash my lashes?

1.  Remove any makeup prior to washing your lashes (you can use this reusable makeup cloth to effectively remove your makeup). Also wash your hands before touching your eyes.
2. Take 1-2 pumps of your cleanser on your hand, take your eyelash brush or mascara wand (make sure you wet them before) and swirl into your hand making the cleanser turn into a foam.
3. Closing the eye you are cleaning, use your brush back and forth on your lash line to ensure you’re cleansing your lashes and the lash line.  If you’re using a mascara wand you can gently brush through your lashes downwards with the cleanser. 
4. Rinse off your eyelashes with water gently to remove any extra cleanser.
5. To dry your lashes, gently pat them with a dry cloth - do this slowly and carefully to avoid squishing your lashes! 
6. When your lashes are dry you can use a dry, clean mascara wand to gently brush the extensions. With your eyes closed, twirl the wand downwards to fan them out.
7. Do this 2-3 times per week. 

Questions or Concerns?

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to me by Instagram DM @saltylash or here.