How to: Wash Your Face with Eyelash Extensions

If you’re new to eyelash extensions, you might be wondering, How to: wash your face with eyelash extensions? Keeping your lashes clean is super important for maintaining their look and longevity, but it requires a bit of extra care around your eyes. As a lash artist with The Lash Professional, I’ve got all the tips you need to keep your extensions looking flawless while still getting that fresh, clean face you love. Here’s everything you need to know!

Before we dive into how to: wash your face with eyelash extensions, let’s talk about why this is so important. Eyelash extensions are bonded to your natural lashes with a special adhesive that can be sensitive to oils, friction, and certain skincare products. Proper face-washing techniques will keep your extensions looking fabulous and avoid weakening the adhesive. Plus, keeping your lashes clean helps prevent buildup of dirt, makeup, or oils that can lead to eye irritation or infections.

Now that we know why it’s important, let’s go over the best way how to: wash your face with eyelash extensions without causing damage or premature shedding. 

Follow these steps for a lash-friendly cleansing routine!

Choose the Right Cleanser

The first step in how to: wash your face with eyelash extensions is choosing a gentle, oil-free cleanser. Oil can break down the adhesive bond holding your extensions in place, so always opt for an oil-free, lash-safe cleanser. At The Lash Professional, we recommend using a foam cleanser or a gentle, oil-free gel that’s designed specifically for lash extensions. Avoid cleansers with heavy fragrances or alcohol, as these can irritate the eyes.

Start by Washing Your Face – But Avoid the Eye Area

Begin your face-washing routine by gently cleansing the areas away from your lashes. Wet your face with lukewarm water (hot water can weaken the adhesive) and apply the cleanser to your forehead, cheeks, and chin. Use gentle, circular motions to cleanse your skin without splashing water or product directly on your extensions. Be especially careful around your eyes and brows to avoid disrupting the lashes.

Cleanse the Lash Line with a Lash Brush

When it comes to how to: wash your face with eyelash extensions, keeping your lash line clean is key! Use a small, soft lash brush to apply a tiny amount of lash-safe cleanser along your lash line. Gently brush in small, circular motions, moving from the base of your lashes outward. Be as gentle as possible to avoid tugging on the extensions, and remember, a little product goes a long way! This step is essential to keep your lash line free of makeup, oil, and dirt.

Rinse Carefully

After cleansing, it’s time to rinse. Instead of splashing water onto your face, which could disrupt your extensions, try using a clean, damp washcloth to remove the cleanser from your face. Gently press the damp cloth on your skin to rinse away any residue without directly soaking your lashes. When rinsing your lash line, use a gentle spray bottle with clean water or a damp cotton pad to avoid disrupting the extensions.

Pat Dry (Don’t Rub!)

One of the most important tips in how to: wash your face with eyelash extensions is drying your face properly. Pat your skin dry with a soft, clean towel, being especially gentle around your eyes. Rubbing or tugging on the eye area can loosen the adhesive or cause the extensions to shed prematurely. If your lashes are damp, let them air dry or gently fan them with a handheld fan—never rub or use a towel on your lashes.

Brush and Fluff Your Lashes

Once your face is dry, use a clean spoolie brush to gently fluff and shape your lashes. Brush your extensions in an upward motion to keep them looking full and perfectly separated. This also helps to remove any excess water and ensures your lashes dry in their natural, lifted shape.

Now that you know the basic steps, here are some extra dos and don’ts for how to: wash your face with eyelash extensions to keep your lashes looking flawless:

DO:

Use an Oil-Free Cleanser: Oil-free cleansers are essential to protect the adhesive bond and ensure your extensions last longer.

Cleanse Your Lash Line Gently: Keeping the lash line clean prevents buildup and keeps your lashes looking fresh and fluffy.

Pat Dry and Air Dry: Avoid using a towel on your lashes; let them air dry or use a soft spoolie brush to separate and dry them.

DON’T:

Avoid Oil-Based Products: Oil-based cleansers, makeup removers, or moisturizers can weaken the adhesive and cause your extensions to fall out prematurely.

No Waterproof Makeup: Waterproof makeup, especially mascara and eyeliner, can be tough to remove and may lead to tugging on your lashes.

Avoid Hot Water and Steam: Heat can weaken the adhesive, so stick to lukewarm water and avoid steaming your face or using hot showers right after your lash appointment.

If you’re wondering why regular cleansing matters, here’s a quick rundown. Clean lashes are healthy lashes! Oils, makeup, and dirt can build up on your lash line, which may lead to eye irritation or infections. Clean lashes also look better and last longer, as buildup can cause extensions to stick together or fall out prematurely. So, by taking a few extra minutes to wash your face carefully, you’re helping your lashes stay fresh and flawless.

Ideally, you should cleanse your face (and lashes) every day, especially if you wear makeup. Cleanse your lash line gently to remove any daily buildup, and follow a thorough wash after heavy makeup wear, working out, or sweating to keep your lashes looking fresh and healthy.

So, how to: wash your face with eyelash extensions doesn’t have to be complicated—it just requires a little extra care and the right products. By following these steps and being gentle around your eyes, you’ll keep your lashes looking beautiful and maximize their lifespan.

At The Lash Professional, we’re all about helping you get the most out of your extensions, so if you ever have questions about lash care, don’t hesitate to ask! For more tips on maintaining your lashes or to find lash-safe products, visit The Lash Professional’s website. With the right routine, your lash extensions will stay looking fresh and fabulous for weeks to come. 

Now you know how to: wash your face with eyelash extensions and keep them in perfect shape! Follow these steps, and you’ll enjoy gorgeous, long-lasting lashes without any worries.