If you are thinking about getting eyelash extensions for the first time, or you’ve only just had your first application, you may be wondering how long they will last and how you can get the most for your money in between infills. (And if you’re looking for your first set or infills in Sydney – we’ve got your back).
Well, don’t worry – simply read on to learn everything you need to keep your eyelashes looking as long and beautiful for as long as possible.
Get our eyelash extension aftercare booklet
Sign up for our newsletter and receive this handy pdf aftercare booklet!
First, how long do lash extensions last?
Eyelash extensions last a full cycle of your natural eyelashes. The lifespan of a natural lash can last from just two weeks to as long as eight weeks. Because each lash extension is attached to a separate natural lash, it falls off when the natural lash falls.
However, if you want to keep your eyelashes in tip-top shape for the full duration, you’ll have to make a trip back to the salon every two to four weeks, depending on how well you are able to maintain them in between. Actual retention time depends on the growth rate and lifespan of the natural lashes.
How do I make my eyelash extensions last longer?
1. Be extra careful for the first 24 hours
Your technician should give you advice on what not to do for the first 24 hours after application, but it’s worth repeating here if you really want your lashes to last.
Don’t let them get wet or be around steam for the first 24 hours. Avoid the obvious, like showering in a hot, closed-off space or going to the sauna. Also, steer clear of spending too much time in front of a boiling pot or kettle, or any other source of water and steam.
Pro Tip: Consider planning your 24 hours post-application down to the minute. Schedule your activities in a way that completely avoids sources of water and steam. This could be a great time to catch up on your favourite shows, read, or do other indoor activities that don’t involve heat or moisture. Even meal-prepping before your appointment can help you avoid cooking and the associated steam for the first crucial 24 hours.
2. Avoid oil-based products
At all costs – these oily products break down your makeup and the glue that binds the extensions to your lashes, meaning you will throw all the time and money you spent on your lashes right down the drain.
Instead, stick to water-based cleansers, or better yet, use products that are made for lash extensions.
Pro Tip: To ensure you’re using safe products, make it a habit to check the ingredient list of any new skincare or makeup product you buy.
3. Brush your lashes instead of perms, tints, and curling
Every morning, take a moment to brush through your lashes. This ensures they remain separated and maintains their natural appearance.
Opt for a wand with brush teeth over rubber ones. Brushing with softer bristles reduces the risk of pulling or tugging on your lashes, which could lead to premature shedding of the extensions.
Pro Tip: Keep a lash brush in your purse or car for touch-ups throughout the day, especially on windy days or after workouts. If you ever feel like your lashes are getting tangled or looking less than perfect, a quick gentle brush can instantly refresh their appearance. Remember, it’s all about maintaining that freshly-done look!
4. Don’t sleep with your face pressed to the pillow
If you’re the kind of person who wakes up with red lines on your face from the pillow, you’ll have to find a way to change the way you sleep if you want your eyelash extensions to last.
Try using a thick pillow or small duvet to prop you up, so you can’t sleep on your stomach.
Pro Tip: Invest in a silk or satin pillowcase. Not only are they gentler on your skin and hair, but they also reduce the friction on your eyelash extensions, helping them last longer. Plus, these materials are less absorbent, so any skincare products you wear to bed stay on your face and don’t transfer to the pillowcase.
5. Don’t rub your eyes
This goes for when you remove your makeup as well as throughout the day.
Most of the time, you probably won’t have cause to rub your eyes with vigour, but you should be aware of the effects.
Pro Tip: If you feel the need to itch or rub, try a gentle tap or press around the eye area instead. If removing makeup, use a soft cotton pad and a gentle, lash-safe makeup remover. Gently press the cotton pad against your eyelids for a few seconds, then swipe downwards. This method minimizes friction and keeps your lash extensions intact for longer.
6. Don’t play with them
The allure of your new, fluttery lashes can be tempting to touch, especially right after you get them done. They feel different, look fabulous, and you might find yourself reaching up just to feel them or show them off.
However, doing so can jeopardize their longevity. The oils from your fingers can break down the adhesive faster, and constant touching can lead to shedding.
Pro Tip: Keep your hands busy! If you find yourself constantly tempted to touch your lashes, it might help to hold onto something like a stress ball, a fidget toy, or even just intertwine your fingers. It’s a small adjustment, but it can be a tactile reminder to leave your beautiful lashes untouched.
7. The hardest: avoid mascara and liquid eyeliner
Yes – this one is incredibly hard, if not impossible to live by, but if you wear eyeliner and mascara daily, it’s time to ditch the habit. It’s incredibly difficult to remove eye makeup without rubbing at your eyes and eyelashes (causing extension breakages).
Didn’t you get eyelash extensions so you could wear less makeup?
Avoid mascara now you have beautiful long thick lashes. And if you do decide to wear eyeliner for a night out, be careful about applying it a little above the lash line and remove it with water-based remover.
Pro Tip: If you really miss the drama of eyeliner, consider trying a tight lining technique with a soft, powder-based eyeshadow. Use an angled brush to gently push the eyeshadow into the base of your lash line. This gives the illusion of a thicker lash base without the heavy application of liquid eyeliner. Always ensure any product used is compatible with your extensions, and opt for removal with a gentle, water-based cleanser.
Looking for more tips on how eyelash extensions improve your life and your confidence?
Read our article on the 5 Reasons Eyelash Extensions eyelash extensions will make your life easier or a great PopSugar article on how hot yoga sessions might be the reason your extensions aren’t lasting.
