Eyelash extensions can be a game-changer, especially if you have naturally short, fine, or blonde lashes. But they do require a certain level of maintenance to ensure you're getting the best out of them and not throwing your hard-earned money down the sink.
One of the biggest mistakes people can make with eyelash extensions is removing them incorrectly. Either you can't get to the salon, you can't get the right products or you simply don't have the patience. But just yanking them off can damage not only the extensions that are left, but also your eyelashes underneath. Not good.
Here's how to remove your eyelash extensions at home safely, swiftly, and worry-free - and leave a clear canvas for your next lash-boosting appointment at the same time...
How To Remove Eyelash Extensions At Home
How do I know when to remove my eyelash extensions?
This part is sort of up to you. If they've started to release on their own and things are a bit patchy, you can start the removal of course. But if you don't mind them being a little sparse you can wait for your lash cycle (about 60 days) to finish. By then the lashes with extensions on would have fallen off naturally.
What is the safest way to remove eyelash extensions at home?
Forget steaming or plucking or even buying expensive potions: the easiest and safest way to remove your eyelash extensions is by using something oil-based. 'To remove lashes safely at home massage an oil, such as baby oil or an oil-based cleanser, in to the lashes every evening and then leave it overnight', says lash technician to the stars Daxita Vaghela. 'This should help break up the glue holding the lashes in place.'
Vaghela then advises to gently comb through in the morning (use a clean spooly) and over a few days they will fall away from the natural lash. 'Repeat this every evening until all the extensions have been removed.'
What should you avoid when removing eyelash extensions?
'One of the biggest mistakes clients make is pulling out the lashes themselves or rubbing the eyes so that their own lashes come out alongside the extensions', says Daxita. Using that sort of force can result in fresh natural lashes being tugged away, and possibly damaging the follicle.
Also, when you're going through the removal 'process' try to avoid using too much mascara (especially near the root) as this can sometimes re-bond the extension to the lash, making it harder to remove.
ELLE Edit: Lash Care Products
Sarah Chapman Lash Boost Eye Cleanse - £33
Some makeup removers can do damage to your lashes, all that stripping and tugging. This however, flips the idea on its head and soothes while removing all traces of makeup. Extra ingredients like amino acids stimulate and restore hair growth to help encourage stronger, longer lashes (and fuller brows too). A very clever 2-in-1 product.
RapidLash Eyelash Enhancing Serum - £39.99
One of the original lash-boosting serums, and still possibly the best. The trick is regimented use: every night, for a few weeks, without skipping a single day. The peptides, biotin, amino acids rejuvenate lashes and encourage fast, thick regrowth. If you're having a break from extensions, pop this in your nightly routine - you might find you won't need that next salon appointment after all.
BY TERRY Mascara Terrybly Growth Booster Mascara - £35
Another brilliant 2-in-1 product, this mascara contains a volume and length boosting technology that activates the growth of your lashes while coating it in long lasting, highly pigmented colour. So essentially, you can get the benefits of a lash boosting serum while putting on your daily makeup. Bonus point: it comes in 4 colours too.
Blink Brow Bar Luscious Lash Oil - £24
If lash extensions have left your lids a little sparse, it's time to give them some love, and this oil is just the ticket. Enriched with 7 natural oils, from jojoba (to moisturise) to rosemary (to stimulate growth) it's a natural way to healthier, glossier lashes. Apply before bed and let the oil do the hard work while you sleep.
What is the best way to maintain your natural lashes until your next lash extension appointment?
If you can't get to the salon or simply want to embrace the natural look for a while, this is a great opportunity to treat your eyelashes to a little detox. Use gentle products on them, and try to avoid harsh cleansers.
A little TLC will go a long way too. 'Brush through lashes daily and avoid any kind of oil or oil-based cleansers around the eyes', says Daxita, who adds that using baby shampoo to wash lashes three times a week can really improve their shine and strength.
Lastly, look for lash-boosting products that will help to encourage some serious growth.
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