Whether your natural lashes are short or you just want extra volume, eyelash extensions are a great way to highlight your eyes without needing mascara.
But here’s the truth: they’re not cheap. Getting eyelash extensions takes time, and the cost can be as high as $300 depending on where you go, your eye shape, and lash length.
With that much effort and money, you’ll definitely want to take good care of them.
Why is aftercare important?
Just like any investment, eyelash extensions need proper care. Following good aftercare can:
- Keep your lashes clean
- Lower the risk of eye infections
- Help them last longer
- Save you money by reducing how often you need refills or replacements
What does eyelash extension aftercare include?
Here are the main things you should do to maintain your extensions:
Don’t get them wet for 48 hours
For the first two days, avoid showers, washing your eyes, or letting water touch your extensions.
Moisture can weaken the glue, making the bond fragile and easier to break.
Wash them regularly afterward
Once the first 48 hours are over, not washing your extensions will cause buildup around the lash line, which can lead to infections or irritation.
To avoid that, clean your lashes about every three days by doing the following:
- Brush them with a soft bristle brush.
- Use an eyelash extension cleanser or distilled water.
- Let gentle water from the shower flow over your eyes.
Brush them daily
Each morning, brush your lash tips to keep them neat.
Use a clean, dry spoolie (the same type of brush used for mascara). Hold your lashes gently with a clean finger while brushing.
Watch your products
Avoid oil-based products near your lashes. Check eye creams, removers, and other beauty products before applying them.
Be careful with makeup
Skip mascara, even the kinds labeled “extension-safe.” Waterproof products, like waterproof mascara, can weaken the lash glue.
If you use eyeliner, go with a water-based, non-waterproof version, and remove it gently at night.
Try not to rub your eyes, as this can harm both the extensions and your natural lashes.
Powdery eyeshadow can also cause buildup if particles get stuck in the glue.
What not to do
Don’t pick at your lashes
Extensions may feel unusual at first, but you’ll adjust after a couple of days.
No matter how they feel, don’t pick at them or try to pull them off yourself — doing so can damage your natural lashes.
Sleep on your back
Sleeping on your stomach or side can crush your extensions and shorten their life. If you sleep on your back, they’ll stay in better shape longer.
Avoid cluster lashes
Cluster lashes, which are three lashes glued together, may look fuller but they’re heavy. Over time, they can strain and damage your natural lashes.
Skip eyelash curlers
Curlers can pull out or break your extensions.
When to get them redone
Extensions usually last 3 to 4 weeks, but with proper care, they can last 6 to 8 weeks.
If you want them removed early, see a professional. Otherwise, they’ll naturally shed with your lash cycle.
The bottom line
Eyelash extensions can give you longer, fuller lashes — but to get the most out of them, you need to maintain them properly.
Brushing daily, washing them every few days, and avoiding habits or products that weaken them will help your lashes last longer while also protecting your natural ones. In the end, good aftercare saves you both time and money.
