Can You Put Mascara on Eyelash Extensions?

Eyelash extensions are beautiful when they’re first applied, and they give your eyes that extra oomph you crave. These fluttery beauties have you looking in the mirror a little longer. If you’re wondering, “Can I apply mascara over my new lashes?,” the answer is yes and no. 

Read on to get the deets on eyelash extensions and mascara and if they can be worn together at the same time.

What Are Eyelash Extensions?

Eyelash extensions give your eyes a new look in a matter of hours, depending on which type of set your lash artist applies. Extensions are fine-textured individual lashes that are glued to your natural lashes to create a long, voluminous lash set. 

A lash set can give you either a more natural look or a super glam dramatic look. The length, density, and shape are yours to choose. Unlike false lashes, though, you’re stuck with the look you pick when you get extensions.

How Long Do Eyelash Extensions Last?

Your natural eyelashes shed organically every six weeks or so. During this time, new lash growth occurs, making the older lash fall out when the new one comes in. 

When you are wearing lash extensions, your natural lashes shed and take the extensions with them. So, in essence, your extensions will only last for the length of your natural lash life cycle. 

However, since your lashes don’t fall out all at once, you’ll notice your extensions beginning to look sparse after two to three weeks. At that point, you need to go back to see your lash artist for a refill.

Who Is Qualified to Apply Lash Extensions?

Lash extensions are applied with professional-grade lash glue. If the glue is misused, it can cause serious injury to the eyes. It is important to find a qualified professional to apply your lash extensions to avoid injury or misplacement of the extensions themselves.

Only a licensed cosmetologist, esthetician, or lash extension specialist can apply lashes. They should be applied at a salon or lash studio.

Professionals who are certified to apply lash extensions have undergone training in sanitation and proper lash handling techniques. Only allow a professional to apply your lash extensions to avoid infection and the spread of bacteria from spreading into your eyes.

Is It OK to Wear Mascara With Lash Extensions?

Mascara gives your eyes instant depth, so not wearing it isn’t an option for most of us. When you get lash extensions, it’s like all of your lash dreams come true. Instant dark, voluminous lashes without having to do anything! 

But if you want to wear mascara for a little extra drama, can you? In short, the answer is yes… and no. Here’s the scoop:

If you have blonde lashes, you may feel that mascara is necessary when wearing lash extensions because it helps your natural lashes blend seamlessly with the fake ones. However, wearing mascara on top of extensions can disrupt the glue, tug on the lashes, and cause them to fall out sooner. 

The best advice is to always check with your lash artist to find out what the recommended action is when it comes to mascara and extensions. Some lash studios will say that it is ok to apply mascara if your set isn’t a long, voluminous one, while others will say you should absolutely steer clear.

What Type of Mascara Can I Wear With Lash Extensions?

Never wear waterproof mascara. Waterproof mascara is more difficult to remove than regular mascara and has to be removed with oil-based makeup remover. Oils are not recommended to be used around lash extensions because the oil will break down the lash glue. 

Removing waterproof mascara while wearing lash extensions will cause you to loosen and weaken the lashes and require a sooner refill.

Many mascaras contain oils to nourish your natural lashes. Since it is not recommended to use oil-based cleansers or makeup removers around your eyes when you have lash extensions, it would be ideal not to wear oil-based mascara at all, either.

Water-based mascara made exclusively for lash extensions is your best bet. These types of mascaras are free of oils and silicone. Since you can remove them with water, you won’t have to scrub and pull on your lashes. 

How to Apply Mascara With Lash Extensions

First of all, if you wear mascara with lash extensions, you must be extremely careful when applying it. If you aren’t careful, the mascara can pull and tug on your extensions, causing shedding, weakening, and clumping.

When wearing mascara, focus on applying it from the middle of the lashes to the tips. Applying mascara to the base of the lashes will increase the weight of the lashes, causing them to become heavy. Heaviness will cause the lashes to weaken.

When applying mascara while wearing lash extensions, follow these easy steps:

  1. Clean your lashes with an oil-free cleanser, and dry and comb them.
  2. Carefully apply the mascara to your lashes and the extensions.
  3. Remember to apply mascara by focusing on the middle to the tips, not the base.
  4. Only add one thin coat of mascara. The goal is to blend your natural lashes into the extensions. Adding too much mascara will cause clumping and make your extensions look fake.

How to Remove Mascara When You Have Lash Extensions

Removing the mascara from your lashes and lash extensions requires careful diligence. It is necessary to work carefully so that you do not cause the extensions to shed. 

Always use an oil-free makeup remover. Apply the remover to a lint-free cloth and gently remove the mascara without rubbing or pulling the lashes. Using a lint-free Cotton Candy Cloth ensures that you won’t snag your lashes while removing the mascara.

Lash Extension Alternatives

Lash extensions are beautiful when they are applied correctly, but they require a whole lot of maintenance. The aftercare process is tedious, affecting how you can get them wet, how you can sleep while wearing them, and how you apply mascara.

If you want the luxe look of lash extensions without the hassle, try a pair of magnetic lashes. Glamnetic magnetic lashes are quick and easy to apply and can be removed daily, giving you the flexibility to change your look frequently without damaging your natural lashes. 

To apply magnetic lashes, you need a magnetic liner. The magnetic liner doesn’t contain the harsh chemicals that the glue for lash extensions requires, making magnetic lashes the safest form of false lashes available today.

Glamnetic magnetic lashes come in mink and vegan varieties and natural to dramatic styles. Best of all, our lashes are waterproof, latex-free, paraben-free, and reusable. Take the stress out of looking your best and choose Glamnetic magnetic lashes. 

Sources:

Eyelash Extensions Guide: the Cost, How Long They Last, Before and After Photos | Harper's Bazaar

What Is Water-Based Mascara? (with pictures) | Beauty Answered

Magnetic Fake Lash Extensions: Are They Safe? | Radiance by WebMD

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