Lash extensions are a game-changer when it comes to low-effort glam, but they’re not exactly set-it-and-forget-it. If you want them to last—and look good while they do—you’ve got to treat them right. That means knowing what helps and what hurts, even if some of it feels counterintuitive at first. Simple habits like how you sleep, how you wash your face, or what products you use near your eyes can make or break your lash game. So whether you’re a first-timer or a lash veteran, these do’s and don’ts will keep your extensions looking full and flawless for longer.
Do: Clean them gently and regularly
Lash extensions might look low-maintenance, but they’re not immune to dirt and oil. Whether it’s makeup, sweat, or just everyday buildup, it all settles into your lash line. That’s why a gentle cleanse once a day, especially if you wear makeup, isn’t overkill. It keeps everything fresh and avoids irritation or worse, infection.
Dirty lashes don’t just look bad, they fall off faster. The adhesive weakens when grime sits around too long. So even if you’re tired, skip the lazy face splash and use a proper oil-free lash cleanser. A quick clean helps them stay fluffy, keeps your eyes healthy, and saves you money on refills.
Don’t: Use oil-based products near your eyes
Even the best lash extensions can’t survive a daily dose of oil-based products. That rich eye cream or creamy makeup remover might feel luxurious, but oils break down lash glue fast. And when that bond weakens, your extensions start falling out way sooner than they should—sometimes in clumps.
Now, if you’ve invested in high-quality, hypoallergenic lash extensions, you’re already doing your eyes a favor. They’re designed to be gentle on sensitive skin and reduce irritation. But even the most lash-friendly materials can’t fight off oil damage. You still need to keep your skincare and makeup strictly oil-free.
Moreover, it’s not just about what you apply directly to your lashes. Oils from nearby products can migrate to your lash line without you realizing it. So double-check those labels. The simple act of switching to oil-free formulas will help your lashes last longer and keep them looking fresh between fills.
Do: Sleep on your back if you can
Smashing your face into a pillow all night might feel cozy, but your lash extensions will absolutely hate it. Sleeping on your stomach or even your side leads to bent, twisted lashes and uneven fallout. It’s not just about looks—it shortens the life of your set by a lot.
Moreover, switching to a silk pillowcase can soften the blow, literally. It creates less friction, which your lashes will appreciate. Still, sleeping on your back is your best bet if you want to wake up with lashes that still look like you just left the salon.
Don’t: Rub, pull, or tug at your lashes
It’s tempting, especially if your eyes itch or a lash feels loose, but resist the urge to pull. Tugging at lash extensions doesn’t just remove the fake ones—it yanks out your real lashes too. That leads to bald spots, irritation, and slower natural lash growth down the line.
Also, rubbing your eyes can twist or snap the extensions, leaving them looking messy or causing early shedding. If you feel something bothering you, use a lash-safe cleanser or go see your technician. Don’t try to fix it with your fingers—you’ll just make things worse.
Do: Brush them with a clean spoolie
Your lashes need taming, especially when you wake up and they’ve been flattened or tangled overnight. A quick flick with a clean spoolie every morning keeps them fluffy and fanned out, not clumped together like spider legs. It’s one of those tiny habits that make a big visual difference.
Brushing helps you spot any rogue lashes that are ready to fall out. You’ll be able to avoid pulling or snagging them later. Just be gentle—think feather-light strokes, not mascara application mode. The goal is to maintain shape without loosening the bond.
Don’t: Apply mascara on extensions
Mascara might feel like the natural finishing touch, but it’s a no-go with extensions. Even “extension-safe” formulas add unnecessary weight and make lashes stick together. And once it’s on, getting it off without damaging the extensions is nearly impossible, especially if you’re used to rubbing or scrubbing it off.
The whole point of lash extensions is to skip mascara. They’re designed to give you that full, dark look without any extra product. If you still feel like you need mascara, chances are you need a refill, not another layer of gunk on top.
Do: Get regular touch-ups (every 2–3 weeks)
No matter how gentle or careful you are, lash extensions shed with your natural lashes. After two or three weeks, you’ll start to see gaps—and not the kind you can brush over. Waiting too long for a refill only makes things harder (and pricier) to fix.
Touch-ups aren’t just a beauty thing—they’re maintenance. The longer you wait, the more outgrown lashes have to be removed, and the more work your lash tech has to do. So keep your lash line full by showing up for refills like clockwork. Your future self will thank you.
Don’t: Expose them to steam or hot water for 24–48 hours
After a fresh set, your lash adhesive needs time to fully cure. Steam from showers, saunas, or even a sweaty workout can mess with the glue during that window, leading to early fallout. It’s annoying, but skipping hot water for two days makes a big difference in retention.
Even after that initial curing period, regular exposure to steam can wear the lashes down over time. So while you don’t have to avoid your favorite hot yoga class forever, keep in mind that less steam equals longer-lasting lashes. Give them a fighting chance to stick around.
Wrap up
Lash extensions make your mornings easier, but only if you take proper care of them. Skip the oil, be gentle, and book those refills on time. A few small habits go a long way—and your lashes will thank you by staying lush, full, and exactly how you want them. Also, when you treat your lashes right, you stretch out the time between appointments and save money in the long run. It’s less about obsessing over every little thing and more about being just mindful enough to protect yoru investment. A little consistency goes a long way.
