How to: Shower with Eyelash Extensions

November 28, 2023 by The Lash Professional. 

rows of eyelash extensions

So, you’ve got a fresh set of eyelash extensions, and they look amazing! Now you’re probably wondering, How to: shower with eyelash extensions? Keeping your lashes clean is important, but it requires a bit of extra care when it comes to water. As a lash artist with The Lash Professional, I’m here to share the best techniques for keeping your extensions fresh and intact—even on shower day! With a few simple steps, you can enjoy beautiful, long-lasting lashes without any worries.

Why Proper Showering Matters for Lash Extensions

Before we get into how to: shower with eyelash extensions, let’s talk about why this matters. Eyelash extensions are bonded to your natural lashes with a special adhesive that takes time to fully cure and set. Water, steam, and certain products can weaken this bond, leading to premature shedding or even irritation. Proper shower techniques can help you avoid this, making your lashes last longer while staying clean and healthy.

How Long to Wait Before Showering After Getting Lash Extensions

If you’ve just had a fresh set of extensions applied, it’s essential to avoid getting them wet for at least 24 to 48 hours. This gives the adhesive time to fully cure, creating a strong bond between the extensions and your natural lashes. Exposing your lashes to water too soon can cause them to lose their shape or shed prematurely. So, plan around your lash appointment and give your lashes a full day or two before stepping into a steamy shower.

Step-by-Step: How to Shower with Eyelash Extensions

Once you’re ready to shower, follow these simple steps to keep your lash extensions in perfect shape:


Turn Down the Heat

One of the first things to remember in how to: shower with eyelash extensions is to avoid super hot water. Steam from hot showers can weaken the adhesive, causing the extensions to loosen. Keep your shower water warm rather than hot, and try to minimize time spent in a steamy bathroom. This small adjustment can help extend the life of your extensions.


Avoid Direct Water Pressure on Your Lashes

When you’re in the shower, try to keep direct water pressure off your lashes. Strong water pressure can disrupt the adhesive bond or twist your lashes, making them look uneven. Tilt your head back or to the side to let water run down your face rather than directly onto your lashes. This will help keep them in place and reduce the risk of them bending or breaking.


Use a Gentle, Oil-Free Cleanser

If you’re washing your face in the shower, make sure to use a gentle,oil-free cleanser. Oil-based products can weaken the adhesive and cause extensions to fall out faster, so it’s essential to stick to lash-safe products. Apply a small amount of cleanser to your face, avoiding the eye area, and rinse carefully without splashing water on your lashes.


For a lash-friendly face wash, The Lash Professional recommends using our specially formulated, oil-free cleansers designed to keep both your skin and lash extensions healthy.


Cleanse Your Lash Line with Care

To keep your lash line clean, you’ll want to wash it separately from your regular shower routine. Use a lash-safe cleanser and a soft lash brush or spoolie to gently cleanse your lash line, removing any makeup, oil, or dirt that might accumulate. This extra step keeps your lashes looking fresh and helps prevent any buildup or irritation.


Pat Dry, Don’t Rub

Once you’re finished with your shower, it’s essential to dry your face and lashes gently. Use a soft, lint-free towel to pat your face dry, avoiding any rubbing or tugging motions. For your lashes, let them air dry or use a handheld fan for faster drying. Rubbing your lashes with a towel can damage them or loosen the adhesive, so always handle them with care.


Fluff and Brush Your Lashes

Once your lashes are dry, use a clean spoolie brush to gently fluff and separate them. This will help maintain their shape and ensure they look even and voluminous. Brushing them out regularly also prevents any tangling, which can make them appear messy or uneven over time.

Additional Tips for Keeping Your Lashes Safe in the Shower

Here are some extra tips for how to: shower with eyelash extensions to help you avoid common mistakes and keep your lashes looking their best:


Avoid Steamy Showers Right After Application

Steam can affect the adhesive, so try to avoid very steamy showers in the first few days after getting new lash extensions. If you need to wash your face, use a damp cloth and focus on avoiding the eye area until the adhesive is fully set.


Use a Shower Cap or Goggles

If you want to be extra cautious, consider using a shower cap or goggles to protect your lashes from water and steam. This might seem a bit extreme, but it’s a great way to keep water completely away from your extensions if you’re worried about them getting wet.


Be Careful with Hair Products

Shampoo and conditioner can contain oils that may affect the adhesive, so avoid letting these products run down onto your face and lashes. Tilt your head back while washing your hair, and rinse your hair away from your face to prevent any product from coming into contact with your extensions.


How Often Should You Clean Your Lash Line?

Regular lash line cleaning is crucial for maintaining the health and appearance of your extensions. Clean your lash line with a lash-safe cleanser every 2-3 days, especially if you wear eye makeup. Keeping the lash line clean prevents buildup, reduces irritation, and helps ensure your extensions stay looking full and fresh.


Why Proper Showering Makes a Difference for Lash Extensions

You may be wondering, Why all this care for a shower routine? Proper showering is key to extending the life of your lash extensions. Taking a few extra precautions to keep water, steam, and oils off your lashes can make a huge difference in how long they last. When you follow these steps on how to: shower with eyelash extensions, you’re protecting your investment and enjoying beautiful lashes for longer!


Final Thoughts on How to: Shower with Eyelash Extensions

So, how to: shower with eyelash extensions isn’t complicated—it just takes a bit of extra attention to ensure your lashes stay in place and looking flawless. By following these simple steps, you can maintain your extensions and keep them looking amazing from one fill to the next.


With a few small adjustments to your shower routine, you’ll be able to enjoy long-lasting, beautiful lash extensions that stay fresh and fluttery. Happy lashing!

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