How to: Put on Eyeliner with Lash Extensions

If you’re rocking lash extensions, you already know how amazing they are for enhancing your natural beauty without needing daily mascara. But, what about adding a little extra drama with eyeliner? If you’ve been wondering how to: put on eyeliner with lash extensions without compromising the look or longevity of your lashes, you’re in the right place. As a lash artist with The Lash Professional, I’ve seen how the right eyeliner (and application technique) can take your lash game to the next level—without any risk to your beautiful extensions. Here’s everything you need to know to achieve a flawless liner look with lash extensions!

Before we jump into how to: put on eyeliner with lash extensions, let’s talk about why your choice of eyeliner is important. Eyelash extensions are bonded with a special adhesive that keeps them in place for weeks. Certain eyeliner formulas—like those that are oil-based—can weaken this adhesive, causing your extensions to fall out sooner than expected. Plus, some eyeliners can be tough to remove, putting extra stress on your lashes.

At The Lash Professional, we always recommend using lash-safe products that are gentle, oil-free, and easy to remove. The right eyeliner will let you define your eyes while keeping your extensions intact and gorgeous.

When it comes to how to: put on eyeliner with lash extensions, choosing the right formula is key. Here are the top types to look for:

Water-Based Liquid Eyeliner

Water-based eyeliners are the safest choice for lash extensions because they’re oil-free and don’t compromise the adhesive. They provide smooth, precise lines and are easy to remove without scrubbing. Just look for “oil-free” on the label, and you’re good to go.

Gel Eyeliner (But Be Careful)

Gel liners are great for creating bold, defined looks, but not all are lash-safe. If you prefer gel, double-check that it’s oil-free and use a light hand when applying to avoid tugging on your extensions.

Avoid Pencil and Waterproof Eyeliners

Pencils and waterproof liners may seem like an easy choice, but they’re not the best for lash extensions. Pencils tend to have waxy ingredients that can break down the adhesive, and waterproof formulas can be challenging to remove, which increases the risk of damaging your extensions.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get into the application process. Follow these steps on how to: put on eyeliner with lash extensions for a flawless, lash-friendly look:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

To get started, make sure you have:

A lash-safe, water-based liquid eyeliner

A steady hand or a comfortable, well-lit area

A mirror that lets you see your lash line up close

Step 2: Keep the Line Thin

When applying eyeliner with lash extensions, less is more. Start with a thin line right at the base of your lashes. By keeping the line thin, you define your eyes without adding weight or bulk that could interfere with your extensions. This step also helps you avoid coating the extensions themselves, which can lead to product buildup over time.

Step 3: Avoid the Lash Roots

This is one of the most important steps in how to: put on eyeliner with lash extensions. Try to avoid applying the liner directly at the lash root, where the adhesive sits. Instead, apply just above the lash line to prevent weakening the bond and avoid any irritation to the sensitive skin around your lash line.

Step 4: Use Gentle, Light Strokes

Using light, gentle strokes, apply the eyeliner across your lash line. Avoid pressing too hard or pulling on the skin. Lash extensions are designed to be lightweight, so pressing too hard can disrupt their positioning and make them uncomfortable.

Step 5: Keep it Minimal for Lower Lashes

While it’s perfectly fine to add liner to your lower lash line, keep it minimal. Heavy lower liner can create a more dramatic look, but it can also smudge more easily and be tougher to remove. Use a small amount of eyeliner just on the outer third of your lower lash line for a soft, balanced look.

Final Tips for Putting on Eyeliner with Lash Extensions

Here are some extra tips to make your eyeliner experience with lash extensions as smooth as possible:

Be Gentle: Whether you’re applying or removing eyeliner, always be gentle around your extensions.

Avoid Touching Extensions Directly: When applying makeup, try to keep the product away from the actual extensions to prevent buildup.

Don’t Skip Regular Cleaning: Keeping your lash extensions clean is key to maintaining them. After removing eyeliner, use a lash-safe cleanser to gently cleanse your lashes.

Knowing how to: put on eyeliner with lash extensions is one thing, but removing it properly is just as important. 

Here’s the best way to take it off without disturbing your lashes:

Choose a Lash-Safe Makeup Remover

Use an oil-free, lash-safe makeup remover, ideally one designed specifically for eyelash extensions. Avoid any remover with oils, as these can weaken the adhesive.

Use a Lint-Free Wipe

Dip a lint-free wipe into the remover, and gently dab at the eyeliner to lift it off. Be careful not to rub or pull, as this can damage both the eyeliner and your extensions.

Rinse Gently with Water

Once the eyeliner is removed, gently rinse your eye area with water to remove any remaining product. Pat dry with a soft towel, and avoid tugging or pulling on your lashes.

In summary, how to: put on eyeliner with lash extensions comes down to using the right products and being mindful of your application technique. With the right eyeliner, a gentle touch, and proper removal, you can enjoy bold, defined eyes while keeping your lash extensions looking amazing.