As an aesthetician, you’ll perform many cosmetology procedures, including eyelash extensions. Whether your future client has had them many times before or is trying it for the first time, you’ll not only have to do the procedure but also advise on best practices. Here are some of the do’s and don’ts of extension care to share.

Do:

Keep them dry.

Keep your eyelashes as dry as possible for the next 24 to 36 hours after your treatment. Try not to wash your hair or face. If necessary, only use lukewarm water, and keep it out of your eyes. If you take a hot shower or enter a steamy bathroom, spa, or sauna, your lashes will loosen and potentially fall out.

Let the adhesive dry for as long as you can. After the 24 to 36-hour mark, your lashes will be waterproof. However, always be careful when touching or rubbing your eyes after getting wet to protect the extensions.

Clean your lashes properly.

While it’s advisable to limit the amount of water on your face, you should still clean the extensions a few times a week with a cleaner specifically for that purpose. Baby shampoo can work too in small amounts.

Don’t:

Use oily products on your face or eyes.

If you want your lashes to last, avoid oil-based face cleansing products. Oils in external products or from your skin can break down the lash adhesive. Check your eye makeup removers, face cleansers, and lotions for oils, and replace them if needed.

When choosing makeup, don’t use waterproof or oil-based products, as they’re hard to clean off without rubbing your eyes. Also, if you have an oily face, include blotting papers and oil-control makeup into your daily routine.

Pull at your lashes.

It can be hard to break the habit if you’re used to rubbing your eyes or pulling your mascara off. However, the more you pick at your eyelash extensions, the more likely they are to fall out and damage your natural lashes.

Especially during the first few hours after applying the lashes, keep your hands off. The oils on your fingers can strain the lash root and hinder the adhesive.

If you would like to remove your extensions, revisit your eyelash studio and ask them to handle it.

Learn more about applying and caring for eyelash extensions at Hawaii Massage Academy. They offer quality massage therapy and aesthetician training that incorporates the industry’s latest techniques, plus their tuition rates are some of the most competitive in Honolulu. To learn more about this locally owned school’s offerings, call (808) 955-4555 or visit their website.