Eyelash extensions can transform your look, giving you fuller, longer, and more dramatic lashes. However, to keep them looking their best, proper care and maintenance are essential. With the right approach, you can prolong the life of your extensions and keep them looking as fabulous as the day you got them.
Pre-Appointment Preparation
Preparing Your Natural Lashes
Before getting eyelash extensions, it’s important to prepare your natural lashes to ensure the best results. Start by ensuring your lashes are clean and free of any oils and makeup residues. Gently wash your eyes and lashes with a mild, oil-free cleanser. Clean lashes provide a better surface for the adhesive to bond, ensuring that your extensions last longer.
Consider using a lash primer before your appointment. Lash primers can remove any remaining oil or makeup residue that might be missed by standard cleansers. This extra step can make a significant difference in how well the extensions adhere to your natural lashes.
Additionally, make sure your lashes are healthy and strong. If you’ve been using mascara or lash curlers frequently, give your lashes a break a week before your appointment. Healthy natural lashes will support the extensions better and provide a more seamless application.
What to Avoid Before Getting Extensions
To ensure a smooth application, there are a few things you should avoid before getting your eyelash extensions:
- Avoid Oil-Based Products: Refrain from using any oil-based cleansers, moisturisers, or makeup removers for at least 24 hours before your appointment. Oils can create a barrier that affects how well the adhesive works.
- Say No to Mascara: Don’t apply mascara on the day of your appointment. Even waterproof mascara can leave behind residues that make it harder for extensions to stick.
- Skip the Coffee: If you’re prone to jitters, it might be a good idea to avoid caffeine before your appointment. Staying still during the application is crucial for a perfect finish, and caffeine can make it harder to relax.
Immediate Aftercare for Eyelash Extensions
First 24 Hours: Critical Do’s and Don’ts
The first 24 hours after getting your eyelash extensions are critical for ensuring they set properly and last as long as possible. Here are some essential do’s and don’ts during this period:
Do’s:
- Keep Your Lashes Dry: Avoid getting your lashes wet for at least 24 hours. Moisture can weaken the adhesive bond before it fully sets.
- Be Gentle: Avoid touching your new extensions to prevent any accidental pulling or tugging that might cause them to fall out prematurely.
- Sleep on Your Back: If possible, try to sleep on your back to avoid crushing your lashes against the pillow, which can distort their shape or cause them to detach.
Don’ts:
- Avoid Hot Environments: Stay away from hot showers, steam rooms, and saunas, as heat and steam can weaken the bond of the adhesive.
- Do Not Use Oil-Based Products: Keep oil-based skincare products away from your eye area as these can break down the adhesive and cause your extensions to fall out.
- No Eye Makeup: Refrain from applying any eye makeup, especially mascara, eyeliner, or eyeshadow, to ensure the adhesive has enough time to fully cure.
Products to Steer Clear of Right After Application
Certain products can drastically affect the longevity of your eyelash extensions. To keep your extensions looking their best, it’s important to avoid the following products right after application:
- Oil-Based Makeup Removers: These can weaken the adhesive bond, leading to premature extension loss.
- Heavy Creams and Lotions: If you must use creams or lotions, ensure they are applied away from the eye area to prevent them from affecting the adhesive.
- Waterproof Makeup: Waterproof mascaras and eyeliners can be difficult to remove without rigorous cleaning, which can tug on your extensions and weaken the adhesive.
By following these immediate aftercare tips and avoiding harmful products, you can ensure that your eyelash extensions remain intact and beautiful for a longer time.
Maintaining Eyelash Extensions Daily
Best Practices for Cleaning and Brushing
To ensure your eyelash extensions stay looking their best, it’s vital to incorporate proper cleaning and brushing into your daily routine. Clean your lashes daily using a gentle, oil-free cleanser. This helps remove any dirt, debris, or oils that can build up and weaken the adhesive. To clean your lashes, apply the cleanser with a lint-free applicator and rinse with lukewarm water. Pat dry gently with a soft towel.
Brushing your extensions is another essential step in daily maintenance. Use a clean spoolie brush to gently comb through your lashes in the morning and evening. This helps keep them untangled and in place. Always brush them in a downward motion to avoid pulling on the adhesive bond.
Following these simple steps not only keeps your lashes clean but also helps maintain their natural look and prolongs their lifespan.
Makeup and Product Recommendations
When wearing eyelash extensions, it’s important to choose the right makeup and skincare products. Stick to water-based or oil-free products to avoid breaking down the adhesive. If you wear eyeliner, opt for a liquid or pen liner rather than a gel or pencil, as these are easier to remove and less likely to cause damage.
If you decide to wear mascara, apply it only to the tips of your lashes and use a formula specifically designed for extensions. Regular mascaras can clump and make your extensions fall out sooner.
Avoid waterproof makeup as it requires oil-based removers, which can weaken the adhesive. Instead, opt for easy-to-remove products, and use a gentle, oil-free remover to clean your makeup at the end of the day. This ensures your extensions remain intact and in great condition.
Lifestyle Considerations for Long-Lasting Extensions
Impact of Water Activities and Steam
Water activities and steam can significantly affect the longevity of your eyelash extensions. Chlorine and saltwater can break down the adhesive bond, causing your extensions to fall out more quickly. If you swim regularly, consider wearing goggles to protect your lashes from direct contact with water.
Steam, such as from hot showers or saunas, can also weaken the bond. When engaging in activities that involve steam, try to limit your exposure. If you must take a hot shower, keep your face away from the direct stream and avoid using hot water on your lashes.
By being mindful of these factors, you can protect your extensions and enjoy them for a longer period.
How Sleeping Positions Affect Extensions
Your sleeping habits can also impact the durability of your eyelash extensions. Sleeping on your stomach or side can put pressure on your extensions, causing them to bend, break, or fall out. To avoid this, try sleeping on your back. This position reduces friction and pressure on your lashes, helping them last longer.
If you find it difficult to change your sleeping position, consider using a silk or satin pillowcase. These materials create less friction than cotton and can help keep your extensions in place. Additionally, you might want to invest in a contoured sleep mask that protects your lashes while you rest.
Adopting these small changes can make a big difference in maintaining the beauty of your eyelash extensions.
Conclusion
Taking proper care of your eyelash extensions is essential for ensuring they remain beautiful and long-lasting. From pre-appointment preparations to daily maintenance routines and lifestyle adjustments, every step contributes to the durability and appearance of your extensions. By following these tips, you can enjoy fuller, more dramatic lashes for longer periods without unnecessary shedding or damage.
If you’re ready to achieve stunning eyelash extensions and learn more personalised tips, visit Elegant Beauty and Brows. Our experts are here to provide you with the best care and advice, ensuring you look and feel your absolute best. Visit our website or book an eyelash extension service today to experience the difference!
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