Lash extensions can instantly elevate your look by giving your lashes a fuller, longer appearance without the need for mascara or falsies. However, just like any beauty investment, lash extensions require proper care to keep them looking fabulous and lasting as long as possible. Without the right maintenance, you might find your extensions falling out prematurely or not looking their best. But don’t worry—here are seven simple tips to help you keep your lash extensions looking gorgeous for weeks.
Why Lash Extensions Need Special Care
Lash extensions are delicate, and even though they make your eyes pop, they are more vulnerable than you might think. Without proper aftercare, the glue holding the extensions can break down, or the lashes themselves can become damaged or fall out. According to Nadia Afanaseva, a lash expert, “Proper aftercare is crucial for maintaining lash extensions. Avoid oil-based products and be gentle when cleansing your face” (Allure). Understanding why lash extensions need special attention will make it easier to follow these tips and keep them looking fresh.
Let’s dive into the seven essential beauty tips to help maintain your lash extensions and make them last.
1. Be Gentle When Cleansing Your Face
One of the first things you need to change after getting lash extensions is how you cleanse your face. Rubbing or scrubbing your face too hard can cause the lashes to loosen and fall off prematurely. Instead, gently pat your face with a soft cloth, and avoid touching your eyes altogether. When removing makeup, opt for oil-free makeup removers to avoid weakening the glue.
In my experience, I had to adjust my skincare routine after getting lash extensions. I found that using micellar water and a cotton pad to clean around my eyes without touching the lashes worked perfectly. It’s a small change but makes a huge difference in keeping those lashes intact.
Expert Insight:
Clementina Richardson, a celebrity lash expert, advises, “Avoid rubbing your eyes and try to sleep on your back to prevent them from getting crushed” (Harper’s Bazaar).
2. Use a Lash Cleanser
While being gentle with your lashes is crucial, they still need to be cleaned to remove dirt and oil that can accumulate. Investing in a lash cleanser is an excellent way to keep your extensions clean without harming them. Lash cleansers are specially formulated to clean your lashes without breaking down the adhesive. Regular cleansing also helps prevent eye infections and lash mites, which can develop if lashes aren’t properly maintained.
Recommended Routine:
- Use a lash cleanser once or twice a week.
- Apply the cleanser with a soft brush or clean spoolie to gently clean the lashes.
3. Avoid Oil-Based Products
Oil is one of the biggest enemies of lash extensions. Oil-based products can weaken the adhesive used to attach your lash extensions, causing them to fall out more quickly. This means you need to avoid oil-based makeup, cleansers, and even moisturizers near your eye area.
A personal tip I’ve picked up: switching to oil-free products not only helped keep my lash extensions intact but also improved my skin, reducing breakouts and excess shine. You can find many great oil-free alternatives for makeup removers and skincare products that are safe for both your skin and your lashes.
Study Insight:
A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology highlights that improper care, such as using oil-based products, can lead to premature lash breakage and weakened bonds (Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology).
4. Brush Your Lashes Daily
Just like the hair on your head, lash extensions need regular grooming to keep them looking neat and tangle-free. Brushing your lashes once a day with a clean spoolie helps prevent them from clumping together and encourages them to fall into their natural shape. Be sure to brush gently, as tugging too hard can cause the extensions to pull out.
It’s a simple task but an essential one, especially if you want your lashes to maintain their volume and structure. I personally make it part of my morning routine—right after I wash my face, I give my lashes a quick brush to keep them looking full and fluffy all day.
5. Don’t Sleep on Your Stomach
Your sleeping position can affect the lifespan of your lash extensions. Sleeping on your stomach or side can crush your lashes against your pillow, causing them to bend or break. It may feel awkward at first, but sleeping on your back is the best way to protect your lashes while you sleep.
Clementina Richardson suggests this as a key tip for maintaining your extensions: “Try to sleep on your back to prevent them from getting crushed” (Harper’s Bazaar). It’s worth making this adjustment if you want to get the most out of your lashes.
Fun Fact:
Studies have shown that people who sleep on their stomachs are more likely to experience premature lash loss due to the constant friction against the pillow.
6. Schedule Regular Touch-Ups
Lash extensions naturally fall out over time as your real lashes shed. On average, people lose 1-5 natural lashes per day, which means your extensions will also start to thin out over time. Scheduling regular touch-up appointments every 2-3 weeks is crucial to keep your lashes looking full and fresh.
I learned this the hard way when I first got lash extensions and skipped the touch-ups. Within a few weeks, my once full lashes looked sparse and uneven. Now, I make sure to book my appointments in advance to keep them looking their best.
Expert Insight:
Courtney Buhler, the founder of Sugarlash PRO, says, “Regular touch-ups every 2-3 weeks are essential to maintain the fullness and longevity of your lash extensions” (Vogue).
7. Use a Lash Sealant
A lash sealant is a must-have if you want to extend the life of your extensions. Sealants form a protective barrier around your lashes, shielding them from dirt, oil, and moisture. Using a sealant can help your extensions stay intact longer and prevent premature fall-out.
If you’re committed to maintaining your lash extensions, using a lash sealant a few times a week will give them extra staying power. It’s a small step that can make a significant difference.
For those looking for a reliable product to protect their extensions, the Blinkifly Fam Lash Sealant is a great option. It helps shield your lashes from dirt, oil, and moisture, ensuring they last longer and stay looking fresh between appointments. Incorporating a sealant into your routine a few times a week can significantly enhance the lifespan of your lash extensions.
Expert Insight:
Sophie Thorpe, a lash expert, recommends using a lash sealant: “Using a lash sealant can help protect your extensions from dirt, oil, and moisture, extending their lifespan” (Elle).
Conclusion: Lash Maintenance Is Worth the Effort
Lash extensions are a fantastic way to boost your confidence and make your eyes stand out, but they require proper care to ensure they last. From being gentle while cleansing to brushing your lashes daily, following these simple tips can keep your extensions looking their best for weeks.
Regular touch-ups, avoiding oil-based products, and using a lash sealant are all easy ways to protect your investment and maintain the fullness of your lashes. As the Mintel Beauty & Personal Care report notes, the demand for lash extensions continues to grow, with many consumers seeking advice on how to care for their lashes to maximize longevity and health (Mintel Beauty & Personal Care).
