How to Clean Lash Extensions: A Step by Step Guide

Quick answer: To clean lash extensions, wet them with lukewarm water, apply a foaming cleanser made for lash extensions with a soft lash brush, gently brush along the lash line, rinse well, pat dry and brush through with a clean spoolie. Do this daily, and after wearing make-up or sunscreen.

Why lash hygiene matters

Your lashes are a filter. They stop dust, debris and dead skin from reaching your eyes. Like any filter, they work best when they are clean. When oils, make-up and dead skin build up along the lash line, they can contribute to blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelids. Tiny mites called Demodex live naturally in lash follicles, and a build-up of debris can let them multiply. Good lash hygiene helps keep your eyes comfortable and healthy, whether you wear extensions or not.

Demodex are far more common than most people realise. Clinical references such as GPnotebook note that they are found in 84% of people by the age of 60, and in everyone over 70. Having them is completely normal. The aim of cleaning is simply to stop them, and the oils and debris they feed on, from building up.

Lash glue is the other reason to keep the area clean and to choose your lash tech carefully. A study in the journal Cornea of 107 patients who saw an eye doctor after getting extensions found that most of the problems were linked to the adhesive or the remover, including inflammation of the eye surface and allergic reactions on the eyelids. Good technique, quality products and clean lashes all reduce the risk. If you are still looking for the right person, read how to choose a lash tech.

Why it matters for your extensions

Extensions bond best to clean lashes. Oil and residue weaken the bond, so lashes fall out sooner and clump together. Clean lashes look fluffier, last longer and make your infills quicker and fuller.

How to clean your lash extensions

1. Wet your lashes with lukewarm water.
2. Apply a small amount of foaming cleanser made for lash extensions.
3. Use a soft lash cleansing brush to gently brush along the lash line and through the lashes.
4. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
5. Pat dry gently with a lint-free towel, or let them air dry.
6. Brush through with a clean spoolie once dry.

Tips for cleaner lashes

• After applying sunscreen or any oil-based product, wash your lashes.
• Wash your lashes last in the shower, so any hair or body product residue is rinsed away.
• Remove make-up every night, and avoid oil-based removers around the eyes.
• Replace your spoolie and cleansing brush regularly.

For lash artists: why client education pays off

When clients clean their lashes properly, they arrive for infills with fresh, clump-free sets. That means less clean-up time, fuller infills and fewer "my lashes have all fallen out" calls. Share lash hygiene advice at booking, during the appointment and on your social media, not just at the till, so it never feels like a last-minute sale.

Read how to make your lash extensions last longer and our lash extensions guide.

FAQs

How often should I clean my lash extensions?

Daily, and after wearing make-up or sunscreen.

What can I use to clean lash extensions?

A foaming cleanser made for lash extensions, a soft lash brush and lukewarm water.

Can dirty lashes cause eye problems?

Build-up along the lash line can contribute to irritation and blepharitis, so regular cleaning helps.