Lash extensions are a collaborative effort between your lash technician and you as the client. While your technician is responsible for creating a beautiful, well-applied set, how long your lashes last can ultimately depend on how well they are cared for afterwards. Proper aftercare plays a crucial role in maintaining both the appearance and longevity of your extensions.
Without the right care, even the best application can result in poor retention, premature shedding, and a less polished finish. By following simple aftercare steps and using the correct products, you can protect your investment, keep your lashes looking fuller for longer, and maintain the health of your natural lashes in between appointments. So if you want to know what you can be doing to look after your lash extensions you are in the right place!
Washing your lashes
There is a common misconception that getting lash extensions wet at all can be harmful and reduce retention, when in fact, the opposite is often true. We recommend cleansing your lashes daily, or at least every other day, using a lash shampoo and water.
Without regular washing, oils, dirt, and makeup residue build up along the lash line, weakening the adhesive bond and causing extensions to shed prematurely. This build-up can also leave lashes looking clumpy and less defined, particularly with volume sets. More importantly, an unclean lash line can harbour bacteria, increasing the risk of irritation or conditions such as Blepharitis. In some cases, poor hygiene may even encourage an overgrowth of Demodex mites, which thrive in oily, unclean environments. Maintaining a consistent cleansing routine is therefore essential not only for keeping your lashes looking their best, but also for supporting overall lash and eye health.
Brushing your lashes
Brushing your lash extensions is an essential part of maintaining their appearance and longevity. Throughout the day, lashes can become tangled, twisted, or misaligned—especially after sleeping, showering, or general daily activities. Gently brushing them with a clean spoolie helps to keep the extensions neat, separated, and fluffy, ensuring your set looks full and well-groomed. Regular brushing also prevents lashes from crossing over one another, which can create an uneven or messy appearance. In some cases, it can even help avoid unnecessary strain on the natural lashes caused by tangling. For best results, lashes should be brushed lightly once or twice a day, ideally when they are clean and dry.
(Brushing Lash Extensions)
Regular Infills for Lash Extensions
As your natural lashes grow, the extensions attached to them move further away from the lash line. These outgrown extensions can become unbalanced, placing strain on the natural lash and potentially causing twisting or premature shedding. During an infill appointment, your lash technician will remove these outgrown extensions and replace any lost lashes, restoring the overall shape and fullness of the set. This not only keeps your lashes looking fresh and even but also helps to protect the health of your natural lashes by preventing unnecessary weight or tension. Regular infills allow your extensions to be maintained safely and consistently, without the need for a full removal and new set each time. Many lash technicians will recommend getting infills every 2-3 weeks but this can vary.
(3-week outgrown Russian Lash Fans by Ellen Gilbert)
