Whether you’re an eyelash enthusiast who’s been obsessed with extensions for years, or an eyelash beginner who’s just stepping into this fascinating world – we all know that having gorgeous lashes comes at a price. From specific rules and aftercare tips to regular touch-ups, eyelash extensions require proper care.
One of the most important principles of taking care of lashes is to avoid moisture and water. But wait – does that mean no showering or facial cleansing? Of course not! In today’s article, we’re going to discuss how you can shower and bathe without damaging your eyelash extensions. If you want to learn the best tips and tricks of the trade, keep reading!
Can You Get Eyelash Extensions Wet
First, let’s quickly break down why avoiding moisture and water is so important. If you’ve ever used eyelashes once, you know that these tiny fibers are glued on with super-strong eyelash glue.
Like most adhesives and glues, eyelash extension glue has its own specific chemical composition. Water and moisture can break the bond between the lash adhesive and your natural lashes. For this reason, we strongly recommend that your extensions do not get any moisture on them for the first 24 to 48 hours.
Nonetheless, there are ways to comfortably shower and wash your face without breaking the adhesive.
How To Shower With Eyelash Extensions
After a 24-48 hour water-free period, you’ll be able to shower normally with your gorgeous new lashes. However, less exposure to water means less chance of premature lash loss. With that in mind, let’s take a look at how to shower immediately after getting eyelash extensions.
Shower Jet
A great way to avoid contact with water is to adjust your shower head and faucet. If your shower head is adjustable, we highly recommend turning it down so that it sits around your neck and collarbone. This way, not only will your face not come into direct contact with the water, but the droplets won’t bounce back onto your eyelashes.
Lowering the water pressure in the shower is also good for your eyelashes. The higher the water pressure, the faster the water flows and the greater the chance of splashing. This defeats our main purpose in the first place.
Pool Goggles
Surprisingly, the next tip has become super trendy in the lash world. If you haven’t touched your pool goggles since middle school, it’s time to break them out. Because another way to protect your lashes and delicate bonds is to use pool goggles in the shower.
But remember this important step – loosen the strap at the back. The tighter the goggles are wrapped around your eyes, the smaller the gap between the goggle lenses and your newly grown lashes. No one wants to mess up their lash extensions on the first day. Last but not least, make sure the goggles are clean and chlorine free.
Water Temperature
If you like to bathe in steaming hot water, you’re not alone! However, something has to change when bathing with a fresh lash kit, and that means switching to a lower water temperature.
Since hot water creates a lot of steam, your lashes may become damp. To avoid this problem, opt for lukewarm water and try to finish your shower early if possible!
No Rubbing
Most of us are in the habit of rubbing our eyes (along with our eyelashes) in the shower. But that’s exactly what you don’t want to do.
Even if you follow the rules of proper showering, be careful to keep your hands away from your eyes. A gentle tug can cause a lot of damage if the glue on your lashes hasn’t completely dried and the adhesive is not secure.
No Sweat
Another reason why your eyelashes suddenly become damp is because the eyelash fibers come into contact with sweat. This can happen if you have a strenuous workout or fitness routine that requires a lot of physical exertion. The more strenuous the workout, the more strength and energy we expend and the more sweat drips down our foreheads.
Here’s a tip for working out with your new eyelash extensions. Before you start your workout, grab a bandana or tight headband. Wrapping your forehead in these fabrics will absorb sweat and keep moisture away from your lashes.
How To Wash Your Face With Eyelash Extensions
Aside from taking a daily shower, most of us prefer a cleansing routine. If you’re a skincare enthusiast, here’s how to complete your daily cleansing routine without getting your eyelash extensions wet.
Step 1: Using your favorite cleanser, apply the product to your cheeks, nose and forehead while avoiding the eye area. To wash your face, first rinse the cleanser from your cheeks. Using slow, steady movements, gently wash away the cleanser.
Step 2: Once the cheek area is clean, move on to the nose. Again, don’t rush the process so you don’t splash the water. Remember, don’t use very hot or boiling water.
Step 3: Next comes the last and most cautious step – cleaning your forehead. If you don’t want water to drip on your forehead, wipe it with a damp towel. Wash your face with a towel instead of your fingers; the towel will absorb the excess water. This is the perfect way to avoid water dripping onto your beautiful lashes!
What To Do If Eyelashes Get Wet
Even though these tips will keep your lashes from getting wet, accidents can happen and the extensions may get some moisture on them. If this happens, you can take the following steps to protect the delicate attachments and adhesive.
A good way to remove excess moisture is to use a paper towel. Wipe gently with the tissue, carefully placing it on the lash line. However, remember not to rub or pull on the lashes.
Everyday Tips
As we mentioned, it’s best not to irritate your lash extensions, even though lash glue dries completely after a few days. Did you know there are helpful tips and tricks you can incorporate into your daily routine? From replacing certain makeup products to daily lash cleansing, let’s take a look at how you can prevent premature lash loss with these simple tips and steps.
No Makeup
One rule and tip you should keep in mind – is to avoid using makeup products. At least for the first few hours or days. This rule applies to mascara, eyeliner, thick foundations and eye creams.
Eyelash extensions are very fragile in the first few hours after application due to the added weight of the mascara layer. Since any makeup product needs to be applied, it is best not to irritate or go near the newly added lash set.
Oil-Free Products
What about makeup remover products? It’s no secret that the beauty and cosmetics industry has a wealth of diverse and versatile products. Luckily for us lash lovers, this means we can use oil-free products to remove our makeup.
Just like water, oil can cause strong adhesive lashes to break. That’s why it’s highly recommended to stay away from oil-containing and heavy oil makeup removers. Instead, you can switch to oil-free products and cleansers for a seamless makeup removal process.
How To Wash Your Lashes
Finally, let’s take a look at how developing a daily eyelash cleaning routine can benefit your eyelash extensions. Throughout the day, our lashes come into contact with many different things and substances, whether it’s makeup or the natural oils on our eyelids.
All of this unwanted overexposure creates a buildup around our lash line, very close to the new extensions. Not only does this buildup slowly break down the lash glue, but it can also lead to eye infections that can be painful!
The best way to avoid these processes from happening is to perform a daily lash cleanse. Using a lash cleaner and a clean mascara wand will remove all the buildup and keep your lashes oil and chemical free!
As you can see, avoiding humidity for 24-48 hours after getting lash extensions isn’t as hard as you might think. With these quick and easy steps, you’ll be able to steer clear of moisture and humidity while making sure your lashes are always protected and intact.