How Often Should You Wash Your Lash Extensions?
CEO/Founder Of Bela Beauty College
You should wash your lash extensions at least once every day—especially if you wear makeup, have oily skin, or sweat frequently. Cleaning them regularly helps prevent buildup, improves retention, and protects your natural lashes from damage.
Why Cleaning Lash Extensions Matters for Long-Term Retention
Washing your lash extensions isn’t just about appearance—it’s essential for lash hygiene and lash retention. At Bela Beauty College, we emphasize the importance of proper aftercare, including lash lift after care, because:
Daily debris like oils, makeup, and sweat build up along your lash line
This buildup can attract lash mites, weaken the lash glue bond, and lead to premature lash shedding
Clean lashes last longer and maintain their shape, keeping your set fresh for weeks
What Affects How Often You Should Wash Lash Extensions?
Your ideal washing schedule isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on your skin, habits, and lifestyle.
Skin Type (Oily, Dry, Sensitive)
Oily skin: Requires daily or even twice daily cleaning to remove excess oil
Dry skin: Can go 2–3 times per week, unless makeup is used
Sensitive skin: Use a gentle, hypoallergenic cleanser and watch for irritation
Daily Activities & Sweat Exposure
Workout frequently? Sweat can break down lash adhesive—clean lashes after each session
Swimmers or beachgoers? Salt, chlorine, and sunscreen should be washed off right after exposure
Makeup Use and Oil-Based Products
Use eyeliner, mascara, or eye shadow? Wash lashes every night before bed
Avoid oil-based removers or products that break down the glue
Local Climate and Air Quality
Hot, humid environments = more oil/sweat → daily washing is a must
Dusty or polluted air can coat your lashes—wash to prevent irritation and buildup
Lash Tech-Recommended Cleaning Schedule
At Bela Beauty College, we teach lash professionals the value of customizing aftercare instructions. Here’s how a lash artist would break it down:
Daily Washing: For Active, Oily Skin Types
Great for gym-goers, makeup lovers, or oily skin
Use a gentle foam lash cleanser every evening
Every Other Day: Balanced Skin, Minimal Makeup
Suitable for people who don’t wear eye makeup or sweat often
Clean every 48 hours to prevent buildup
2–3x/Week: Dry Skin, Low Maintenance Users
Ideal if your skin isn’t oily and you rarely wear makeup
Be sure to still brush and inspect daily
Step-by-Step: How to Wash Your Lash Extensions Properly
Keeping your lashes clean doesn’t require much—just the right tools and consistency.
Tools You’ll Need
Oil-free foam lash cleanser
Soft lash brush or cleansing brush
Spoolie brush for brushing afterward
Lint-free towel or tissue
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
Wash hands thoroughly
Pump a small amount of foam cleanser onto your fingers or lash brush
Gently cleanse lashes in downward strokes—don’t rub side to side
Rinse with lukewarm water
Pat dry with lint-free towel
Brush through lashes gently with a spoolie once completely dry
Drying and Brushing Lashes After Washing
Avoid rubbing with a towel—pat gently
Always brush once lashes are fully dry to avoid tugging
What NOT to Do When Washing Lash Extensions
Avoiding Oil-Based Products
Oil breaks down adhesive—read labels before using any cleanser or skincare near your eyes
Don’t Rub or Scrub
Aggressive movement can lead to lash loss or disrupt the adhesive
Avoid Hot Water and Steam
Heat weakens the glue and loosens the lashes prematurely
Overwashing Risks
Washing more than twice a day can dry out the lashes and irritate skin
Lash Cleaning Myths That May Be Damaging Your Lashes
Even some seasoned lash wearers fall for myths. Let’s set the record straight.
“You Shouldn’t Get Your Lashes Wet”
False. Clean water and lash-safe cleansers protect your lashes, not ruin them
“Only People with Makeup Need to Clean”
Natural oils, dust, and pollutants build up even if you wear no makeup
“Washing Makes Extensions Fall Out Faster”
In reality, not washing leads to buildup that destroys the bond and causes early fallout
Lash Expert Tips for Longer-Lasting Results
Maximize your retention with smart lash aftercare.
When to Consult Your Lash Artist
If lashes seem clumpy, itchy, or are falling out more than usual
Your lash artist can assess if buildup or allergies are the cause
Signs You’re Not Washing Enough
Itchy lash line
Redness or swelling
Lashes shedding early
Extensions clumping together
Ideal Lash Fill Schedule
Get a fill every 2 to 3 weeks
Clean lashes = better retention = fewer lashes lost between fills
