Eyelash Extension Aftercare: Expert Tips for Long-Lasting Lashes

Eyelash extensions are more than just a beauty treatment—they’re an investment in effortless confidence. At LEXS LOUNGE, we specialize in creating safe, high-quality, and long-lasting lash extensions. However, proper aftercare is the key to maximising retention and maintaining healthy, beautiful lashes between appointments.

In this guide, we’ll share expert-approved aftercare practices that will help you get the most out of your extensions while keeping your natural lashes in top condition.

Why Is Eyelash Extension Aftercare Important?

Proper lash care isn’t just about keeping them looking pretty—it plays a crucial role in their retention and your overall eye health. Here’s why aftercare is non-negotiable:

✔  Enhances Longevity – With the right care, your eyelash extensions can last up to 3-4 weeks between infills.

✔  Prevents Infections – Dirt, oil, and makeup buildup can cause irritation, infections, or even create a space for lash mites to thrive.

✔  Protects Natural Lashes – Poor aftercare can weaken your natural lashes, causing breakage and hindering future growth.

✔  Maintains Lash Health and Appearance – Clean, well-maintained lashes look fuller, fluffier, and more natural, enhancing your overall beauty.

 

The First 24 Hours: Critical for Long-Term Retention

The first 24 hours after your appointment set the foundation for how well your lashes will last. During this time, it’s essential to avoid moisture, steam, and excessive touching.

What to Avoid:

✔ Water & Steam – No showers, swimming, or steam rooms. The adhesive takes time to fully cure, and moisture can weaken the bond. (There are products out now that we can apply at the end of your appointment which allow you to get them wet immediately afterwards, however we still recommend waiting. So don't stress if you accidentally get them wet)

✔ Oil-Based Products – Oils break down lash adhesive, so avoid any skincare or makeup removers containing oil.

✔ Excessive Touching – Rubbing, pulling, or sleeping face-down can disturb the adhesive before it fully sets. (This should also be avoided on the daily to prolong your retention)

💡 Pro Tip: If you accidentally expose your lashes to moisture too soon, gently pat them dry with a lint-free towel and use a lash fan or cool setting on a blow dryer to remove excess moisture.

Daily Lash Care: Maintaining Flawless Extensions

After the first 24 hours, regular aftercare ensures optimal lash retention, prevents premature shedding, and keeps your natural lashes healthy.

1. Clean Your Lashes Daily (Yes, Really!)

One of the biggest myths in the lash industry is that you shouldn’t get your extensions wet—but in reality, clean lashes last longer.

✔ Use an oil-free, ophthalmologically tested, lash-safe cleanser to remove dirt, oils, and makeup buildup.

✔ Avoid cotton pads and swabs, as fibre can snag on your extensions.

✔Gently cleanse using a soft brush, then rinse with cool water and pat dry or use the cool setting on a fan/blowdryer.

Why is this important? Dirt and oil buildup can weaken retention and lead to irritation or even lash mites (yes, they’re real! Don't kill the messenger!). Keeping your lashes clean ensures a healthy lash line, eye health and long-lasting extensions.

2. Brush & Maintain Your Lashes

✔ Use a clean spoolie to gently brush through your lashes each morning. (You will be given a new one after each appointment at LEXS LOUNGE)

✔ Avoid overbrushing, as excessive friction can cause premature shedding.

💡 Pro Tip: If your lashes are twisting or feeling uneven, book an infill sooner rather than later to maintain their shape. Generally twisting happens when your leaving too much time between infills or your too rough on your lashes)

3. Avoid Oil-Based Products at All Costs

✔ Always check ingredient lists on cleansers, moisturisers, and eye creams. (Sometimes this is unavoidable so just ensure your avoiding the eye area)

✔ Stick to water-based or lash-extension-safe products.

Why does this matter? Oils degrade lash adhesive, leading to poor retention and faster lash fallout.

💡 Pro Tip: Always wash your lashes AFTER washing your hair in the shower to remove the oils that may transfer from your hair care products to the eye area.

Lifestyle Adjustments for Lash Longevity

Your daily habits can also impact how long your extensions last.

1. Sleep Smart

✔  Side & stomach sleepers: Consider using a silk pillowcase or a silk eye mask to minimise friction.

2. Avoid Excessive Heat & Humidity

✔  Be cautious around ovens, saunas, fires, lighters and high-heat hair tools. Heat can weaken the adhesive bond, leading to premature shedding. It is also the main cause for melting eyelash extension. EEKKKK!

3. Skip Mascara & Lash Curlers

✔  Mascara is unnecessary and can cause clumping along with premature lash loss especially if your using a waterproof mascara.

✔  Mechanical lash curlers damage extensions and weaken your natural lashes. So many women accidentally cut off their natural eyelashes each year with lash curlers.

When to Book an Infill: Keeping Your Lashes Full & Fresh

Lash extensions naturally shed with your lash cycle, so regular infills are necessary to maintain their fullness.

✔  Light touch-up? Book a 60-minute infill every 2 weeks.
✔  Fuller set? Opt for a 70–90 minute infill every 2–3 weeks.
✔  Going beyond 3 weeks? A full set may be required, as too many lashes will have naturally shed, however this is completely dependent on each person.

💡 Pro Tip: If you're noticing gaps, book an appointment before your lashes become too sparse. 

 

What Your Nighttime Lash Care Routine Might Look Like

A simple nighttime routine can make all the difference in preserving your lash extensions. 

1️⃣ Remove Eye Makeup Gently
Use an oil-free makeup remover, face cleanser or a lint-free cotton pad to wipe away any eye makeup.

2️⃣ Cleanse Your Lashes
Apply a lash-safe, ophthalmologically tested cleanser and use a soft cleansing brush or clean fingers to gently remove dirt and oil buildup.

3️⃣ Rinse and Pat Dry
Rinse with cool water and pat your lashes dry with a soft, lint-free towel or paper towel.

4️⃣ Brush Through Your Lashes
Using a clean spoolie, gently comb your lashes to keep them neat.

5️⃣ Sleep on Your Back
Try to avoid pressing your lashes against your pillow by sleeping on your back or using a silk pillowcase.

💡 Pro Tip:  I always find it best to do leave my lash cleanser in the shower and follow this routine every night before I get out of the shower. If I am going to wash my hair I do this before I start my lash care routine. 

I still use this same routine overnight with lash cleanser before I leave the shower and I don't have eyelash extensions.

 

Signs You Need a Professional Lash Removal

If your lash extensions are overgrown, uneven, or irritating your eyes, it’s time for a professional removal. Never pull or pick at your lashes, as this can cause damage to your natural lash line.

At LEXS LOUNGE, we offer gentle, professional lash removals to protect your natural lashes. Removals are FREE when booking a full set.

 

Final Thoughts: The Key to Long-Lasting, Healthy Lashes

Eyelash extensions are a game-changer for effortless beauty, but proper aftercare is essential for maximum retention and lash health. Although eyelash extensions are a necessity (for most of us haha) they are also a luxury. By following these expert tips, you’ll enjoy flawless, long-lasting lashes and get the most out of your appointments.