To keep your eyelash extensions for as long as possible, it is important to take care of them. This includes regular, thorough cleaning! How do you do it? We tell you everything.

Eyelash extensions are beautiful: they lengthen the lashes, open up the eyes, give you a star-like look, and above all, save you time in the morning in front of the mirror. As a reminder, extensions are synthetic lashes that are added one by one to add volume to the natural lashes. The application of extensions takes one to two hours, and they last between one and two months. There are several application styles, from the most natural to the most extravagant—all styles are allowed!

While we know how to have them applied (always by a licensed specialist), we know a little less about how to maintain them, and above all, we don't realize that they need to be washed regularly and thoroughly to ensure they last as long as possible.

Read also: How to apply false eyelashes

Why is it important to clean your eyelash extensions?

We wash our face every day, remove our makeup after a long day, and pamper it to keep our skin healthy—that's normal. It's the same for our lashes, especially when we have extensions. In fact, contrary to what you might think, it is highly recommended to clean your extensions, as this can even help them last longer! Synthetic lashes require care but are easy to clean. This important step is especially recommended to prevent potential infections caused by dust and bacteria that can settle on the extensions, but also to remove makeup (especially if you wear mascara) and to clean away accumulated sebum, which can weigh them down or even cause the extensions to fall out prematurely.

How to properly clean your eyelash extensions?

Extensions must be cleaned thoroughly to prevent them from falling out. To make sure you do it correctly, always follow these steps.

1 - Choose your cleanser

Not all cleansers are suitable for cleaning your extensions. For example, avoid oil-based products, as they could dissolve the adhesive and cause the extensions to fall out completely. Instead, opt for a foam, balm, cream cleanser, or simply a mild facial soap. There are also cleansers specifically designed for extensions. It is best to ask your specialist during the application so they can recommend the best cleanser for the type of extensions applied.

2 - The right techniques

After choosing the right cleanser, it's time to put it into practice. Be gentle when washing your eyelash extensions. Remember that extensions are simply glued on and that a rough movement can cause them to fall out. Never rub your eyes. Instead, gently clean the lash area with your fingertips (from top to bottom), applying light pressure at the base of the lashes. It is best to avoid wipes and other fabrics, as fibers could get caught in the lash adhesive and weaken their hold.

3 - Drying your extensions

Once you have finished cleaning, you must now dry your extensions to prevent water from weighing down the synthetic lashes. How do you do it? It's simple: gently pat the area with a towel (preferably microfiber) so it can absorb the water. Another option is to dry your lashes with a piece of tissue paper, leaving it on your eyes for a few seconds until the water is completely absorbed.

4 - Brushing your extensions

This is very important! Eyelash extensions should be brushed daily to prevent them from tangling, losing their shape, or drooping. Brush them using a spoolie (sometimes provided by the beauty therapist at the end of the application) or a clean old mascara brush. Brush the extensions as if you were applying mascara, always in the direction of growth, from the base to the tips of the lashes!

What you need to know to properly maintain your extensions

In short, to keep beautiful extensions for as long as possible, you need to clean them and know how to maintain them. Keep these tips in mind to preserve your captivating look for as long as possible:

- Never put oil on your extensions
- Don't forget waterproof mascara
- Don't rub your eyes!
- Whenever possible, choose makeup that is gentle on the skin.
- Brush your extensions daily to ensure they keep their shape and hold well.
- Clean your extensions thoroughly.
- Continue to apply your eyelash growth serum (as part of a treatment is also possible) to keep your natural lashes healthy!