1. Understanding the First 24 Hours
The first day after your lash lift or extensions is crucial for achieving long-lasting results. During this period, your lashes are still setting, and any exposure to moisture or pressure can affect their shape and durability.
Avoid Water and Steam
Water and steam can weaken the adhesive used for lash extensions or disrupt the setting process of a lash lift. For the first 24 hours:
- Avoid washing your face with water.
- Stay away from saunas, hot showers, and steam rooms.
- Be cautious of sweat during workouts.
No Makeup or Oil-Based Products
Certain makeup products, especially those containing oil, can break down lash adhesives and interfere with the lifting process. To protect your lashes:
- Skip mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow for the first day.
- Avoid oil-based cleansers or skincare around the eyes.
Avoid Touching or Rubbing Your Eyes
Your lashes need time to settle into place. Rubbing or touching them too soon can cause them to shift or lose their shape. Be mindful when sleeping to avoid pressing your face into your pillow.
First 24-Hour Do’s & Don’ts
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Keep your lashes dry | Avoid water and steam |
| Sleep on your back if possible | Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes |
| Use oil-free skincare around the eyes | Avoid makeup and oily products |
2. Daily Maintenance Tips
Taking care of your lash lifts and extensions daily is essential to keeping them looking fresh and lasting longer. Here are some simple but effective tips to maintain your lashes properly.
Keep Your Lashes Clean
Dirt, makeup, and oil buildup can weaken the bond of lash extensions or affect the curl of a lash lift. To prevent this, cleanse your lashes daily using an oil-free cleanser. Oil-based products can break down the adhesive of extensions, leading to premature fallout.
Recommended Cleansing Routine
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Use an oil-free, gentle foaming cleanser specifically designed for lashes. |
| 2 | Apply the cleanser with a soft brush or fingertips in gentle circular motions. |
| 3 | Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. |
| 4 | Pat dry with a lint-free towel or air-dry naturally. |
| 5 | Brush through with a clean spoolie once dry. |
Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
No matter how tempting it may be, avoid rubbing your eyes. Rubbing can cause lash extensions to fall out prematurely and may even weaken your natural lashes. If your eyes feel itchy or irritated, try gently patting around them instead of rubbing.
Sleep on Your Back or Side
If you’re used to sleeping face-down, it’s time to adjust your habits. Sleeping directly on your lashes can cause them to bend or shed faster. Instead, sleep on your back or side to keep your lashes intact for as long as possible.
Tips for Lash-Friendly Sleep Positions
- Avoid sleeping face-down: This prevents unnecessary friction on your lashes.
- Use a silk or satin pillowcase: These materials reduce friction compared to cotton pillowcases.
- If you’re a side sleeper: Try positioning your pillow so that it doesn’t press against your lashes.
Regularly Brush Your Lashes
Lash extensions can sometimes become tangled or misaligned throughout the day. Use a clean spoolie brush to gently comb through them each morning and night. This helps keep them neat and maintains their shape.
3. Products to Avoid
To keep your lash lifts and extensions looking flawless for as long as possible, its important to avoid certain products that can weaken the adhesive or disrupt the lift. Here are some key things to steer clear of:
Oil-Based Skincare and Makeup Removers
Oil-based products can break down the adhesive used in lash extensions and cause lifted lashes to lose their shape faster. If you need to remove makeup or cleanse your face, opt for oil-free alternatives.
Waterproof Mascara and Eyeliners
While you may not need mascara with lash extensions, if you do use it, avoid waterproof formulas. These require oil-based removers, which can weaken the bond of your extensions and shorten their lifespan.
Creamy or Heavy Eye Creams
Thick eye creams and serums can transfer onto your lashes while you sleep, leading to early shedding or drooping. Try using lightweight, gel-based formulas instead.
Harsh Makeup Wipes and Cotton Pads
Avoid using rough wipes or cotton pads around your eyes, as they can tug on your lashes and cause fallout. Instead, use a gentle, lint-free cloth or a soft brush with an oil-free cleanser.
Quick Guide: Products to Avoid
| Product Type | Why to Avoid It |
|---|---|
| Oil-based cleansers & makeup removers | Dissolves adhesive and shortens lash longevity |
| Waterproof mascara & eyeliners | Tough to remove without oil-based removers |
| Creamy or thick eye creams | Can transfer onto lashes and weaken bonds |
| Cotton pads & harsh wipes | Tugs on lashes, causing premature fallout |
4. How to Extend the Life of Your Lashes
To keep your lash lifts and extensions looking fresh and beautiful for as long as possible, it’s important to take proper care of them. Here are some simple yet effective ways to extend their lifespan.
Schedule Regular Touch-Ups
Lash extensions naturally shed with your natural lashes, so regular touch-ups help maintain a full and voluminous look. Typically, you should schedule a refill appointment every 2 to 3 weeks. Lash lifts, on the other hand, last about 6 to 8 weeks, but refreshing them periodically will keep your lashes looking their best.
Use a Lash Serum to Nourish Your Natural Lashes
Your natural lashes need nourishment to stay strong and healthy, which helps your extensions or lift last longer. A high-quality lash serum can provide essential nutrients, promoting growth and preventing breakage.
Benefits of Using a Lash Serum:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Strengthens Natural Lashes | Prevents brittleness and breakage, making lashes more resilient. |
| Promotes Growth | Nourishes hair follicles to encourage longer and fuller lashes. |
| Improves Retention | Healthier natural lashes provide better support for lash extensions. |
Be Gentle When Applying or Removing Makeup
Avoid rubbing or pulling on your lashes when applying or removing makeup. Use an oil-free makeup remover and gently dab around your eyes instead of scrubbing. Opt for a soft brush or lint-free applicator to clean the lash line without causing unnecessary stress on your extensions.
5. Signs It’s Time for a Refill or Lift
Keeping your lash lifts and extensions looking flawless requires regular maintenance. Over time, natural lash growth and daily wear can impact their appearance. If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to book a touch-up or redo your lash lift.
Excessive Shedding
Your natural lashes go through a growth cycle, and as they shed, your extensions will fall out with them. If you start seeing more gaps or uneven areas in your lash line, its a good indicator that you need a refill.
Uneven Appearance
Lash extensions should look full and even. If some lashes appear longer while others look sparse, its likely time for a touch-up to restore their balance.
Curling Issues
A lash lift is designed to give your natural lashes a long-lasting curl, but as new lashes grow in, the effect can diminish. If your lashes are losing their curl or looking inconsistent, consider scheduling another lift.
When to Schedule Your Next Appointment
| Issue | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Excessive shedding | Book a refill to maintain fullness |
| Uneven lash appearance | Schedule a touch-up for symmetry |
| Curl starting to fade | Redo the lash lift for best results |
How Often Should You Get Refills?
Lash extensions typically need refills every 2-3 weeks to keep them looking fresh. Lash lifts, on the other hand, usually last 6-8 weeks before needing another session. Keeping up with regular appointments will ensure your lashes stay beautiful and well-maintained.
