How to Clean and Care for Eyelash Extensions, According to Lash Experts

Be Extra Careful for the First 24 Hours

The first 24 hours after a lash extension application are the most crucial. This is when the set is most sensitive to any interaction with external factors. Be careful not to touch them, as this can interfere with the root, and you'll risk depositing natural oils from the skin onto the lashes. Keeping them dry is also critical, as moisture could degrade the adhesive. (And if you do have sensitive eyes, it's best to skip this treatment altogether.)

Put Down the Mascara or Eyeliner

"The best thing about extensions is that you can completely ditch your mascara and lash curler," Robinson says. That's kind of the whole point of eyelash extensions: to make your lashes look bigger and fuller sans makeup. "I recommend not wearing mascara or eyeliner, as it's hard to remove and will cause the bond to break," explains Richardson. "If you need to wear mascara on your lower lashes, avoid waterproof mascaras."

Switch to Mineral-Based Makeup

If you just can't part ways with your eye makeup, switch to mineral-based options. "Oil-based or glycerin makeup products cause the adhesive [on eyelash extensions] to break down prematurely and eyelashes to fall out," explains Ford. She recommends using false lash-approved eyeliners and mascaras, as those that aren't "tangle and damage extensions as well as the natural lash, adding too much weight to the hair follicle."

Thoroughly Remove Your Makeup Every Night

If you decide to wear makeup, Robinson emphasizes the importance of carefully removing it. "My main rule for anyone wearing eye makeup with their extensions is to make sure you are taking it all off at the end of the day," she notes. "Letting makeup build up around your extensions can cause them to come off early [and can lead to] inflammation on your eyelids."

Makeup preferences and products aside, the first step in effective cleansing is using formulas specifically made for lash extensions. "Other products may contain ingredients that can weaken the bond of your lash extensions and cause them to shed prematurely," she says.

Use an Oil-Free Makeup Remover

Ensuring any eye makeup remover or cleanser used near your extensions is oil-free is extremely important, considering some of the internet's most popular cleansers contain oil. "Oil-based removers will weaken the extensions and cause them to break and shed," Richardson says. Once you find the perfect oil-free remover, "use a few pumps of the remover on a spoolie brush or a disposable mascara wand and brush through several times to break down the mascara and remove any debris."

Choose a cleanser specifically formulated for lash extensions. "Our Lash Detox ($14) and Lash Cleanser With Makeup Remover ($8) are popular aftercare products for a reason," Ford says. "They gently sweep away debris and bacteria to keep your eyes and lashes healthy and strong. These cleansers are perfect for removing makeup because they aren't oil-based like most conventional makeup removers on the market."

Ditch the Cotton Pads

Now that we know the experts suggest using clean fingers or a spoolie brush to gently clean extensions, it's important to note that they advise against using cotton pads or swabs. "Do not use cotton around or on your lash extensions, [because] they snag and rip them out," Richardson explains. "So after brushing through with the makeup remover, dab with a tissue to remove the product. Repeat this step until all the mascara is gone."

Apply a Conditioning Serum

Even if you don't have eyelash extensions yet (or maybe you're caught between appointments), it's recommended that you use a conditioning serum. "Conditioning serums are great for people who want to get their natural lashes in better shape," Richardson says. "Our Lash Conditioning Serum contains a unique blend of natural and botanical ingredients to help your lashes reach their full potential, creating both density and length. I highly recommend using it a few times per week to ensure the strength and health of the natural lashes."

Protect After You Cleanse

Follow the theme of tender love and care right through to the end of your routine by applying a protective product that will nourish your lashes and help keep your extensions in place. "Just like you are with your blowouts, be gentle with your lashes," Richardson says. "Apply a protective coating like our Envious Lashes Protective Coating 48 hours after service from base to tip."

Sleep on a Silk Pillowcase

Sometimes traditional pillowcases can tug on your lashes, something you want to avoid happening. Use a silk or satin pillowcase instead of cotton to avoid snagging your lashes while sleeping. Plus, it's good for your hair and skin, too.