How To Remove Mascara From Eyelash Extensions

If you like wearing mascara even on top of eyelash extensions, it’s important to know how to properly remove it in a way that won’t cause them damage.

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How To Remove Mascara From Eyelash Extensions In 5 Steps

The best way to remove mascara from eyelash extensions is to wipe it off using makeup remover. Dip a spoolie brush in makeup remover and brush it against the lashes. This should make it easy for the mascara to come off using a bit of tissue.  

Follow these step instructions for easy removal:

1. Choose an oil-free makeup remover

Remember, you need to use an oil-free makeup remover around your eyelash extensions, as the oil will interact with the adhesive, dissolving it and causing your extensions to fall out. 

Using a specific lash foam cleanser is one way of ensuring you’re not using an oil-based formula.

2. Grab a clean spoolie brush

Use either a disposable mascara wand or clean spoolie brush, and pump out your oil-free cleanser onto this brush. 

Gently sweep this brush through your extensions, moving from the midpoint of your lashes down towards the tip.

Repeat this motion several times to remove any mascara, as well as the debris and residue of the day. 

Never joggle or rub your brush from side to side, as this will push your extensions out of place. If you’re too rough, they may also fall out. Take care, go slowly, and be gentle.

3. Carefully dry your extensions

Now that you’ve brushed your extensions through a few times with the cleanser-saturated spoolie, it’s time to dry them.

Grab a tissue or a lint-free towel – remember never to use cotton wool, as you’ll find these snags on your extensions.

Cotton towels are also likely to pull on them, so stick to a microfiber or makeup remover cloths.

Carefully pat your extensions dry to remove all of the cleanser, and allow them to air dry.

4. Brush your extensions

Grab another clean spoolie and brush your eyelash extensions through. You do this so as to remove any tangles, but also to add some natural fluff to them. 

5. Use a protective product

You can also follow up with a protective product like a conditioner or serum. These will nourish your extensions and keep them looking their best for as long as possible.

You can also always maintain the longevity of your eyelash extensions by sleeping on silk or satin pillowcases and using a contoured sleep mask.

What To Remember When Removing Mascara From Eyelash Extensions

Use water-based mascara

Although you can wear mascara on top of eyelash extensions, you need to take care that you only ever used a water-based formula. 

Fiber or tube mascara, as well as any formulas that are oil-based or waterproof, will either be too difficult to remove from your extensions and may result in damage or will dissolve the adhesive and lead to premature shedding.

Do not use cotton wool

Avoid using cotton wool on your lash extensions. It will snag on them and may cause them to tug or rip out as a result. 

Similarly, don’t use makeup removal wipes. These require you to use some friction in order to remove the makeup, which can tear your extensions out. 

They may also contain oil, which is a no-no for eyelash extensions.

Never use oil-based formulas

When looking for something to remove your mascara from eyelash extensions, you need to avoid anything that’s oil-based. 

Oil interacts with the glue of your extensions, and disrupts the bond, resulting in your extensions falling out.

Although many online resources recommend using micellar water, some formulas contain oil. 

Be sure to read their ingredients in order to determine whether or not the product you’re about to use contains oil. If it does, it’s not suitable.

It’s best to use a formula that’s specifically created to be safe with eyelash extensions. 

Just remember to patch test before use around your eyes, so that you know you aren’t prone to irritation or sensitivity.

Take care

Care is the name of the game here. Excessive tugging or pulling will rip out your eyelash extensions – and after having spent so much time and money getting them in, why would you want to ruin them? 

Be as gentle as possible, and remember that you can always repeat the process if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Mascara Ruin Your Eyelash Extensions?

Provided that you wear a water-based formula, your mascara shouldn’t ruin your eyelash extensions. Avoid tube, fibre, and waterproof mascara, as well as those with oil-based formulas, as these could damage your eyelash extensions.

Can You Use Micellar Water To Clean Eyelash Extensions?

Micellar water can be used to clean eyelash extensions provided that it doesn’t contain any oil. However, some micellar water is infused with oil, so be sure to check the ingredients list before using any on your eyelash extensions.