Whether you’re looking for a dramatic look or a subtle enhancement, eyelash extensions can take your look to the next level. However, it’s important to know how to make the most out of them and avoid any problems.
Check out the most important eyelash extensions dos and don’ts, that will help you create the perfect look with their help. Always make sure that you’re getting an experienced professional to put them in, and follow these simple tips to keep them looking perfect.
Choose the Right Type of Lash Extensions
While you can definitely try to apply the eyelashes extensions at home, it’s better to get the help of a licensed aesthetician or cosmetologist, at least for the first time around. They’ll help you decide which type works best for you, synthetic, silk or mink, and they’ll also advise you on the right length. Go for lighter extensions and avoid really curly ones if you have naturally straight eyelashes, since they’ll fall off quicker. You should also make sure that the adhesive used is completely formaldehyde-free.
Keep Them Dry for Up to 48 Hours
One of the biggest eyelash extensions don’ts is getting them wet in the first day or two after application. That means that you should protect them while showering, and you should also avoid swimming and activities that will cause you to sweat a lot, from intense workouts to going to saunas.
Be Very Careful When You Remove Your Makeup
Cotton pads are a big no-no when it comes to removing your makeup in the eye area after you’ve had the extensions applied. They can make lashes fall out sooner and leave behind ugly cotton fibers. Avoid any waterproof liner or eyeshadow and use cleansing wipes to remove your makeup more gently.
Choose the Right Mascara
Using mascara is not really one of the eyelash extensions dos, but it’s not forbidden either. If you want even more volume, then the trick is to find the right mascara. Stick to water-based mascaras only. Oil-based ones can mess with the adhesive that keeps the extensions in their place and waterproof mascara can also have a similar effect and it can be very difficult to remove.
Don’t Ruin Your Lashes with Moisturizers and Creams
Keeping your lashes protected from heavy eye creams and moisturizers is a must. Any product that’s moisturizing should be used carefully, since it can loosen the bonds between the extensions and your lashes, causing them to fall off.
See also: 10 Mascara Hacks You’re Not Doing But Should Be
Protect Them from Chlorine
After the adhesive has had two days to fond strong bonds between the extensions and your natural lashes, you can go take a swim anytime you want, but you should be careful when it comes to chlorinated water in pools. In order to prevent the chlorine residue from affecting them, one of the biggest eyelash extensions don’ts, always rinse them with bottled water afterwards.
Don’t Forget About Your Natural Lashes
Having eyelash extensions applied can take a toll on your natural lashes, so you need to give them a little TLC. A growth serum is always a good idea, and you should also consider using an eyelash conditioner. If you prefer a more natural option, castor oil can improve their look and stimulate growth. Apply it before you go to bed.
Reshape After Showering
If you do get your eyelash extensions wet while you shower, then you should be prepared to dry them the right way. Comb them carefully, then use a blow dryer only on a cool setting to get them back in shape. Using heat is one of the major eyelash extensions don’ts, since it can affect the adhesive.
Avoid Oil-Based Cosmetics
While mascara has the worst effect on eyelash extensions if it’s not water-based, there are plenty of other oil-based cosmetics that should be avoided, from heavy eye creams to shampoo and conditioner. If you can’t keep them off while you shower, then you should definitely think of using swimming goggles to keep them safe.
Sleep On Your Back
One of the big eyelash extensions dos is protecting them in your sleep as well. Sleeping on your back or sides can shorten their lifespan, so try to sleep on your back to keep looking gorgeous for longer.