Can You Swim with Lash Extensions? Avoid This Mistake
CEO/Founder Of Bela Beauty College
Yes, you can swim with lash extensions — but only if you wait 24–48 hours after your appointment and protect them properly. The biggest mistake is getting them wet too soon or skipping essential aftercare like rinsing and brushing.
How Water Affects Lash Extensions
Water might seem harmless, but when it comes to lash extensions, it can be your lashes’ worst enemy if not handled with care. Understanding how water impacts lash extensions starts with understanding what they’re made of and how they’re applied.
- Lash extensions are typically made from synthetic materials like PBT (a type of plastic fiber), silk, or mink.
- The glue, or lash adhesive, is cyanoacrylate-based — similar to surgical glue. It requires 24–48 hours to fully cure and bond to your natural lashes.
During this curing time, exposure to water — especially from showers, pools, or humidity — weakens the lash bond. Here’s why:
- Moisture disrupts the adhesive’s setting process, leading to poor retention.
- Chlorine and saltwater can erode the adhesive even after it’s fully cured.
- Hot water and high pressure (like from diving or strong jets) speed up lash fall-out.
- Repeated exposure can lead to uneven shedding, especially if you’re an active swimmer.
Can You Swim with Lash Extensions?
Yes, but only with proper care.
Many clients mistakenly believe that getting lash extensions means they can’t enjoy water activities anymore. That’s not true — but how you swim matters.
Safer Activities:
- Light swimming
- Lounging in shallow water
- Floating or wading
Riskier Activities:
- Deep diving
- Water skiing or surfing
- Underwater laps or aggressive splashing
If you’re cautious and maintain your lashes, swimming is still on the table.
The #1 Mistake: Swimming Too Soon After Your Appointment
This is where most people go wrong.
The adhesive used in lash extensions takes 24 to 48 hours to cure completely. Exposing lashes to water during this window can ruin the bond between the extension and your natural lash.
Common real-life mistakes:
- Booking a lash appointment the day before a pool party
- Heading to the beach the morning after a fill-in
- Using steam rooms or hot tubs right after your lash session
The result? Extensions falling out prematurely, poor lash retention, and wasted money.
Saltwater vs. Chlorine: Which Is Worse for Lash Extensions?
Both are harsh — but in different ways.
Saltwater
- Dehydrates the lash adhesive
- Causes lashes to stiffen or clump
- Can cause irritation if not rinsed off immediately
Chlorine
- Breaks down adhesive bonds
- Can discolor lashes or cause brittleness
- Leads to faster fall-out, especially with repeated exposure
Surprising threats:
- Hot tubs — intense heat and chlorine combo
- Mineral springs — unknown pH levels can weaken lash glue
- Saltwater pools — same threat as ocean water
Whether you’re swimming in a hotel pool or an ocean cove, your lashes are at risk if you’re not prepared.
How to Protect Your Lash Extensions While Swimming
Lash retention starts with prevention. Here’s what you can do to minimize damage while swimming:
- Wear swim goggles
Look for ones with a snug, oil-free rubber seal. - Apply a lash sealant
Creates a barrier over the adhesive, protecting it from moisture and chemicals. - Avoid waterproof mascara
It clings to lashes and is hard to remove without oils. - Keep hair tied back
Wet hair often splashes or sticks to lashes, weakening the bond. Use oil-free sunscreen around the eyes
Many sunscreens contain oils that degrade lash glue.
Post-Swim Lash Extension Aftercare Routine
Once you’re done swimming, rinse and reset. Here’s how:
- Rinse your face and lashes with clean water immediately
Helps remove chlorine, salt, or debris - Use a lash-safe cleanser
Ingredients to avoid: oil, glycols, alcohol
Look for foaming cleansers labeled “lash extension-safe” - Gently pat lashes dry
Don’t rub — use a lint-free towel or tissue - Brush with a clean spoolie
Helps separate lashes and restore shape - Reapply lash sealant (if using)
Maintains protection for your next dip
Do Lash Extensions Fall Off Faster If You Swim Regularly?
If you swim often, expect slightly faster lash fall-out — but that doesn’t mean you can’t maintain great-looking lashes.
Frequent swimmers may notice:
- Uneven shedding after heavy swim days
- Shorter intervals between fills
- Need for more rigorous aftercare
Tips for swimmers:
- Schedule lash fills every 2 to 2.5 weeks
- Always use sealant before and after swimming
- Consider shorter or lighter lash sets for better hold
Vacation Planning? When to Book Lash Extensions Before Swimming
Timing your lash appointment is key if you’re planning to hit the beach or pool.
Book your appointment at least 2–3 days before your trip.
This gives enough time for the adhesive to cure and for your lashes to settle.
Other travel tips:
- Bring your lash cleanser and spoolie
- Avoid direct sun exposure on your face after a fresh lash set
- Skip heavy eye makeup — you won’t need it
If you’re going on a beach vacation, prep your lashes just like you’d prep your outfits.
Recommended Lash-Friendly Products for Swimmers
You don’t need a lot — just the right tools.
What to use:
- Lash extension sealant – Apply once before swimming and again after cleansing
- Oil-free lash cleanser – Daily use, especially after water exposure
- Lash-safe sunscreen – Fragrance-free, oil-free, non-comedogenic
- Clean spoolie brush – To brush lashes after swimming or cleansing
Look for products labeled “lash extension-safe” or “oil-free.”
FAQs
Can I swim in a chlorine pool with lash extensions?
Yes, but only if your lashes are fully cured and you rinse thoroughly after swimming.
What happens if I get my lash extensions wet too early?
The adhesive may break down, causing your extensions to fall off prematurely.
Is it safe to swim in saltwater with lashes?
Yes, but salt can dehydrate the adhesive. Always rinse and cleanse afterward.
Do I need goggles to swim with lash extensions?
They’re not mandatory but highly recommended — they offer the best protection.
Can I go to the beach right after getting my lashes done?
No. Wait 24–48 hours to allow the adhesive to cure properly.
Lash Extension Aftercare for Swimmers: A Checklist
- Wait 24–48 hours after application before swimming
- Wear goggles whenever possible
- Use a lash sealant before entering water
- Rinse lashes with clean water after swimming
- Clean with lash-safe, oil-free cleanser
- Pat dry and brush with spoolie
- Book fills every 2–2.5 weeks if swimming often
- Avoid oil-based products and waterproof mascara
