To clean eyelash extensions, wet your lashes, put a little lash-safe foaming cleanser on a soft cleansing brush, and work it gently along the lash line and down through the lashes in small strokes. Rinse with clean water, pat dry with a lint-free towel, and brush the lashes into place with a clean spoolie once they are dry. Done regularly, this removes the oil, makeup and debris that collect at the lash line.
Why do lash extensions need washing?
- Oil and makeup build up at the base of the lashes, where the extensions are bonded.
- Build-up can weaken the bond, so extensions shed sooner.
- Debris at the lash line can irritate the lids. Keeping the area clean is basic eye hygiene.
- Clean lashes look fuller and stay fluffy instead of clumped.
Avoiding water does not protect extensions. Once the adhesive has cured, for the period your lash artist advises, washing is part of looking after them.
What do you need?
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Lash cleanser | Oil-free and made for extensions. Usually a foam |
| Soft cleansing brush | Fine, soft bristles that reach between lashes |
| Clean water | Lukewarm, from cupped hands or a rinse bottle |
| Lint-free towel or tissue | For patting dry |
| Clean spoolie | For brushing when dry |
How to wash them, step by step
- Wash your hands.
- Remove eye makeup first with an oil-free remover on a lint-free pad or micro brush, keeping it away from the bonds.
- Wet your lashes with lukewarm water.
- Pump a little cleanser onto the brush or the back of your clean hand.
- Close one eye.
- Brush along the lash line with small, light strokes, side to side, then downward from the base to the tips.
- Work across the whole eye, including the inner and outer corners.
- Clean the lid gently with the same foam.
- Repeat on the other eye.
- Rinse thoroughly until no foam remains.
- Pat dry by pressing a lint-free towel under the lashes. Do not rub.
- Let them air dry, or use a small fan or a hair dryer on cool, held well away.
- Brush through with a clean spoolie when dry.
A brush for the job
The Uexim eyelash and makeup cleaning brush set contains soft nylon brushes for cleaning eyelash extensions or applying makeup products. Each has nylon bristles and a plastic handle, is approximately 97 mm long, and the listing notes that the brushes also work with concealer, foundation and brow product. They come in packs of 10, 20 or 50, in black, pink or white.
How often should you wash them?
- Most people: once a day, or at least several times a week.
- If you wear eye makeup, have oily skin, or exercise: daily.
- After swimming or heavy sweating: rinse and cleanse the same day.
Follow the aftercare advice your lash artist gave you, including how long to wait after a new set before the first wash.
What should you avoid?
- Oil-based cleansers and removers near the lashes, unless your lash artist says your adhesive tolerates them.
- Cotton pads and cotton buds, which leave fibers and snag.
- Rubbing or scrubbing.
- Hot water and steam directly on the lashes.
- Baby shampoo or face wash as a routine substitute. Use a cleanser made for extensions.
- Sleeping on wet lashes.
How do you look after the brush?
- Rinse it after each use and shake off the water.
- Wash it with mild soap once a week.
- Dry it with the bristles pointing down or flat.
- Replace it when the bristles splay.
- Do not share it. In a salon, use one per client.
When should you see someone?
If your eyelids are red, swollen, itchy or sore, or you notice discharge, stop and contact your lash artist. See a doctor or eye care professional if symptoms continue. Cleaning is routine care, not a treatment for irritation or infection.
Frequently asked questions
Will washing make my extensions fall out?
No. Gentle washing with a suitable cleanser helps retention by removing oil from the bonds.
Can I use my fingers instead of a brush?
A soft brush reaches between the lashes and the lash line more evenly, and is gentler than fingertips.
How soon after a new set can I wash?
Follow your lash artist's advice. Waiting times depend on the adhesive.
Can I use the same brush for makeup?
Keep one brush for lash cleansing only.
The bottom line
Wet, foam, brush gently along the lash line and down through the lashes, rinse, pat dry and brush. A soft brush and an extension-safe cleanser used regularly keep lashes clean and comfortable.
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